Total Population of Japan: 123 million

Official Language: Japanese

Largest Religion: Buddhist (68.1%)

Professing Christians: less than 1%

www.joshuaproject.net

Links from Thomas Weakley

• 10 common words: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=74aYs6rcbiM

• 10 phrases in Japan: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UJR5rm9HhTA

• 16 essential tips https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lzIudok713k

• Cultural differences: https://ksemoving.com/cultural-differences-usa-japan/

• https://www.japanlivingguide.net/

CULTURE/SOCIETY

Japan is an honor-shame culture. “Haji” refers to the public shame when reflecting poorly on family, society.

There’s an understanding of order in Japan. Trains are on time to the minute, you wait your turn, etc.

Happo-bijin (八方美人) is a phrase that refers to "saying what people want to hear". 

Japanese people are private with a high value for collective harmony, and thus, tend to not want to say things that disagree with others.

Tradition and modernity are reflected throughout Japan.

Japanese people take pride in their history and heritage while they also excel in technology.

Japan’s suicide rate is the 6th highest in the world and the 2nd worst among eight major industrialized nations.

Tokyo is the most densely populated city in the world with 37 million residents alone, which is close to the entire population of California.

SPIRITUALITY AND MINISTRY

The Japanese worldview is that all religions are the same - different paths but the same destination. Religion is essentially a personal quest or journey that cannot and should not be clearly defined, therefore seeking after truth is not important.

Christianity was once rampant in Japan, however, in the late 16th Century due to political turmoil the Japanese began to oppress and remove all western influence. The two major religions in Japan are Buddhism and Shinto—though most Japanese do not practice either they just observe there rituals for birth, marriage, and burial.

Japanese Culture has high moral values and principles. They value success, hard work, perseverance, tradition, and the elderly. Often Japanese culture practices group thought in efforts to maintain and achieve harmony. Ancestor worship is common and they believe that what they do currently can affect the lives of their ancestors. In the past few years, Japan has seen a shift in thinking and has become more westernized due to growing teenage/young adult population and a shrinking elderly population. 

In an average Japanese life, spirituality is often a cultural norm or familial association, with little personal spiritual value. Religion is often more cultural/familial.

Most Japanese people have never met a Christian, seen a Bible, or even know about Jesus. In fact, less than 1 percent of Japan's 123 million people claim to be Christians.

Within the next 20 years, half of the existing churches will close because they will have no pastor. There is a great need to raise up Japanese Christian leaders.

Shinto

• Original religious thinking (indigenous)

• Little to no preaching or propaganda

• Deeply cultural

• "Shinto gods" are called kami, sacred spirits which take the form of things and concepts important to life, such as wind, rain, mountains, trees, rivers, etc.

• People are innately good, evil comes from evil spirits

Buddhism

• Originated in India

• Follows teachings of Buddha

• Eight-fold path to enlightenment

• Tradition and ancestor worship

• About 40% of population

history of missions in japan

Portuguese Jesuit missionaries introduced Christianity to Japan when they began trade in the mid-16th century. The Japanese ruling class welcomed foreign trade, especially the European gunpowder and weapons, and tolerated the missionaries. Significant numbers of Japanese, particularly in Western Japan, converted to Christianity in the following decades.

By the end of the 16th century, government leaders had become wary of foreign influence in Japan, and several edicts were put in effect, banning missionaries and Christianity entirely. Many Christians were executed for professing their belief in Jesus, and by the mid-17th century, any remaining Christians had been forced to publicly renounce their faith. Many continued practicing Christianity in secret, but freedom of religion (and therefore freedom for religious communities to exist and preach), was not introduced until 1871. Military governments and war continued to temper growth into the 20th century, but since WWII Christianity has been increasing slowly in Japan.

The Church Today

In 1945, there were only 300,000 Christians in all of Japan after 86 years of Protestant missions, but today there are 1.12 million Christians for 35 years of missions after the war. About 25,000 people have been baptized each year since. 

After WW II, a new wave of committed and energetic missionaries swept onto the shores of Japan. They established churches, built schools, and touched lives of thousands of Japanese leaders. Though conversions remained somewhat slow, God began working in new and creative ways in Japan.

Though the Japanese still considered themselves a “Buddhist nation,” the Christian influence upon Japanese leadership and the upper class as extremely influential in the formation of present-day society. 

Though God has done great things in Japan since 1945, 1.12 million Christians still only constitutes less than 1% of the population. What about the 99%? Jesus answered the question almost 2,000 years ago: “The harvest is plentiful...”

Fields Are Ripe

Japan has been called the “most civilized un-evangelized country in the world.” A recent survey showed 61% of the Japanese people do not acknowledge any form of gods or God, and most Japanese say, “The Japanese are not interested in religion.” 

So why is Campus Crusade for Christ (CCC) making a major push in Japan? 

CCC Leadership, Japan CCC or JCCC staff, as well as various other missionaries and Japanese Christians believe God is in the process of doing something “new” in Japan. In Isaiah 43, the Lord says: “Do not call to mind the former things...behold, I will do something new.” In John 4, Jesus says: “Look on the fields, they are ripe for harvest,” even when there was no visible sign of spiritual fruit. We also believe the harvest has already begun and you have the privilege of being in on the beginning. 

In the last few years we have heard a lot of Japanese students say, “Japanese are not interested in Christianity, but I am.” Through faithful individuals who are willing to share the Gospel, many students are coming to Christ.

current religious atmosphere

In general

Less than 1% of the 123 million-population claims to be Christian and Japanese have little Christian background or knowledge of the Bible. According to a survey, about 60% claims no religion, however, about 33% polled would choose Christianity over Buddhism or Shinto.

Individual attitudes

If you ask, "Are you interested in religion?" almost everyone will say, "No." However, all students are interested in love and acceptance, so they are open to the gospel if approached with love. The gospel is communicated easiest within the context of a relationship, but most Japanese don't know even one Christian (Rom. 10:14). 

Principles behind short term missions

• Concentrate on college students: 74% of men and 60% of women who become Christians do so in their teens and 20's, college is a time of freedom to experience new things. 

• Make friends through English: Although shy, most Japanese students are interested in English and welcome the chance to practice with native speakers. So take the initiative! Within the context of relationships, the gospel can be shared very easily. Even if they don't respond the first time you share with them, continue to witness while developing your friendship. This is multiple-contact evangelism. 

• Seek to make true friendships! We are the gospel! We must share ourselves freely (I Thessalonians 2:8). Due to the importance of interpersonal relationships in Japan it is important to give of ourselves in witnessing. More Japanese have been attracted to Christ through genuine love rather than logic. (Apologetics work for follow up but not for evangelism!!!!) Anyone will respond to a person whom they feel they can trust. 

Ministry activities

Meet students through English classes, on campus, and in town. Invite and come with friends to events. Throughout the process, continue sharing the gospel, and spend time with those interested in knowing more about Christ for further follow-up. Introduce those who pray to receive Christ or are high seekers to partnering church staff, CCC staff, and/or CCC students who can continue follow- up. Trust the Lord not just to be leading students to Christ, but to be building spiritual movements which will impact Japanese students’ lives after we are gone. 

how do we fit in

Housing

We’ll stay in airbnbs in Osaka. Get excited to live with our team! 

Transportation

We will be walking and using public transportation. Japan has the best train/subway system in the world, and we’ll probably buy pre-paid train cards, which automatically deduct fare based on your entry and exit. 

Dress

Japan is a country that prides itself on being refined and orderly. Japanese people place an emphasis on modesty, which is reflected in how people dress. Most Japanese people prefer not to show their body shape (e.g. they don't wear tight or revealing clothing), which is a cultural value that can be seen in the T-shaped form of the kimono. As ambassadors for Christ, we ask that you dress respectfully to honor the Japanese culture and people around you. Even in the summer, Japanese people dress modestly and generally do not expose their shoulders or knees.

• Do not wear leggings as pants in public! Leggings are seen as undergarments in Japan--something you layer under a skirt. If you wish to go on a run, please wear exercise pants or long exercise shorts. 

• Avoid things like tank tops, shorts, and mini-skirts. Opting for more conservative clothing is always a safe bet. Ask yourself, "is this something I would wear to church or to visit my grandparents?" It’s also generally frowned upon for women to show cleavage. Light cardigans or layering t-shirts are great ways to make tank tops/spaghetti straps wearable. Skirts and shorts should be at around knee-length or longer.

• If you have tattoos, you must cover them with bandages or your clothing, as tattoos are traditionally associated with the Japanese mafia.

• You must take off your shoes when entering someone's home or living space (as well as Cru Japan's headquarters!). Please be sure to wear socks without holes in them for those situations. 

You may be thinking, how do Japanese people deal with the summer heat and humidity with conservative dress? The key: loose clothing with light and breathable fabrics like cotton, rayon, and linen. If you feel that you need to invest in some Japan-appropriate clothing, UNIQLO is a well-priced global Japanese retailer with relatively high-quality clothing. 

June is also rainy season in Japan so plan accordingly! Consider bringing appropriate shoes for wet weather. Pack with that in mind!

Riding the train

• QUIET is key 

• If you are sitting down without any open seats in sight, and near you is an elderly person, a pregnant woman, a person with children, or someone who looks like they could use a seat, it is very polite and encouraged to offer them your seat. Simply stand, point to the seat, smile and say “Dōzo.” 

• Some cars are Women Only, so men be mindful of that possibility 

• Allow train to empty before entering train 

Dating and physical contact

Be VERY careful of physical contact with the opposite sex. Japanese culture is a non-touch culture. Besides shaking hands (appropriate), anything more could signal wrong intentions. Absolutely NO hugging, walking arm-in-arm, giving back rubs, etc. with the opposite sex. Absolutely NO dating while on the project! You are here to witness for the Kingdom, not find a spouse. If you are already dating someone on your team, watch your public display of affection. It is not culturally appropriate in Japan – even to hold hands. 

Medical

If you need help, call emergency number 119 from any pay phone.

Computers and technology

You may bring a laptop if you wish, but you may not use it very much. Japan is very technologically advanced so we will have internet. But because we will only be on project for a short time, please plan to have limited time to communicate with friends at home. 

Passport

Carry a photocopy of your passport with you at all times. It’s the law. 

Pachinko

Gambling is technically illegal, so to get around that, there are Pachinko Parlors. People play for small silver balls, which they can trade in for little animals. They can, in turn take these little animals to third party dealers who are usually conveniently located in an inconspicuous, yet close, location to the Pachinko Parlor (like an alley way), and sell their animals for cash. We will not participate in Pachinko during project. 

Prostitution

Sadly, this is something that is socially very different from America. In a country where even gambling is technically illegal, prostitution is very legal. At train stations and malls, male prostitutes are very visible, dressed in suits. Female prostitution is also present but it generally takes the form of signs. Old men hold up advertising signs in the middle of malls everywhere. There are “video rooms for men” located all over and nudity is rampant — on TV, in print, and in advertisements. Small posters advertising prostitutes litter telephone booths everywhere. This aspect of society serves as a giant reminder of how sin-saturated the culture really is. Be careful which buildings you walk into. 

Miscellaneous 

• Chewing gum can be seen as rude - especially chomping.

• TV is often uncensored here, so be careful of what you watch.

• Handkerchiefs are not for blowing your nose; they are for wiping sweat or drying hands after washing. Use a Kleenex for nose blowing. Don’t blow your nose in public!

• Waste disposal and recycling are incredibly important and strictly monitored in Japan. 

• Pay careful attention, and respect the laws and culture surrounding recycling. 

Money

As of now, the exchange rate is about 155 Yen for $1 USD. We will provide you with a per diem every week, which should be enough to cover all your meals. You will only have to spend your own money for optional tourist activities, souvenir shopping, and the occasional nice meal that doesn’t fit into your per diem budget. If you use a credit card for your spending money, your bank will automatically give you the best exchange rate available, however, please note that many, if not most, places in Japan do not accept credit cards. So plan on bringing some cash to exchange for spending money. In the past, students have typically come with about $200 cash plus a credit card just in case. Japan also has ATMs where you can withdraw Japanese cash using your debit card. 

Conversion

10,000 YEN = About $65

5,000 YEN = About $30

1,000 YEN = About $6

500 YEN = About $3

100 YEN = About $0.65

50 YEN = About $0.32

10 YEN = About $0.06

5 YEN = About $0.03

1 YEN = About $0.006

*Disclaimer: These numbers can/will change based on exchange rate. The current exchange rate is 155 YEN to 1 USD

gift giving & receiving

Giving

The Japanese custom of gift giving is an integral part of the culture and has an underlying significance of exchange and mutual relationship. This is not necessary, but encouraged for you. You'll most likely receive gifts from some of the students you get close to so it's nice to have something to give back! 

What should I bring for gifts?

The general principle to remember with all gifts is that any “unique” American items from your state and/or campus will be a huge hit (pennants, hats, calendars, key chains, stickers, notebooks, t-shirts, cups, mugs, etc.). Osaka is a major metropolitan city so the Japanese have access to the same types of national things that we do (Levi’s, Nike’s, American Eagle clothes, etc.) which is why things found in your own “backyard” will be so treasured. 

You should prepare to bring at least two types of gifts

• Lots of small, inexpensive ($1-$3) gifts for anyone you have formed a relationship with. You will make lots of friends during your trip so be prepared to bring small gifts for them (i.e. - bookmarks, key-chains, stationery, stickers with your school or hometown logo, etc.) 

• A few more expensive gifts for those with whom you become good friends and really bond with (e.g., college paraphernalia, trinkets from your hometown, your favorite candy, etc.) 

Tips

• Pick gifts that will survive the trip and are not too bulky or heavy. 

• For gifts for the opposite sex, just make sure there is no potential for misunderstanding that can signal romantic interest (e.g., jewelry of any kind). 

• Include a few Christian items for Japanese Christian students or those interested in Christ. 

• Bring some wrapping paper with you or you can purchase it there. 

Language

It is not necessary to learn Japanese to be successful this summer. We encourage you to learn simple phrases to make your time easier; also Japanese students appreciate you attempting to learn their language.

Watashi (Wah tah’ shee) = I, me

Anata (Ah nah’ tah) = You

Namae wa (Nah mah’ eh wah) = Name

Ohayoo (gozaimasu) (Oh hi’ oh [go zi moss]) = Good morning 

Konnichiwa (Koh nee’ chee wah) = Hello, Good day 

Konbanwa (Kon bah’ wah) = Good evening 

Oyasuminasai (Oh ya’ soo me nah sah) = Good night

Nan desuka? (Non des’ kah) = What is it?

Domo arigatoo (Doh’ moh ah ree gah’ toh) = Thank you

Doitashimashite (Doh’ ee tah shee mosh’ tay) [“Don’t touch a moustache”] = You’re welcome

Oishii (Oh ee shee’) = Delicious 

Wakarimasuka? (Wah kah’ ree moss’ kah) = Do you understand?

Wakarimasen (Wah kah’ ree mah’ sen) [“Why carry my sin?”] = I don’t understand

Sumimasen (Soo’ mee mah sen) [“Sue me - my sin”] = Excuse me/I’m sorry

Jaa ne (ja ne) = See you later

Ikura desuka? (Ee’ koo rah des’ kah) = What’s the cost?