Japan's Controversial Move: Muslim Cemeteries Banned, Bodies Ordered Repatriated
Tokyo, February 15, 2026
Japan's government issued a strict, controversial order enforcing cultural burial norms nationwide. Muslim cemeteries now face complete bans, with existing ones ordered closed. Authorities cite Japan's cremation tradition as legally and culturally binding.
New Law Details
Cremation Mandate: Japan requires cremation (99%+ compliance). Muslims must repatriate bodies/ashes to home countries.
Government Aid: State assistance promised for transport costs.
Osaka Closure: Nation's sole Muslim cemetery in Osaka city shut under new rules.
Pre-Existing Restrictions
Mosque Limits: New parliamentary laws ban mosque construction.
No Azan: Loudspeaker calls to prayer prohibited.
Public Prayer Ban: Street or public namaz already strictly forbidden.
~200, 000 Muslims live in Japan, mostly Indonesian/Malaysian migrant workers. Community protested 2025 legal process. Government insists foreign practices conform to local laws and social norms. Diplomatic impact on Muslim nations remains to be seen.