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Travelling & Living In Japan Solo As A Muslimah In 2022

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Siti Ayeeshah Zaki •  Feb 18, 2022

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Living in a foreign country away from home can be tough, especially so if that place does not have many Muslims! Only 0.1% of Japanese are Muslim - far and few to what many of us Singaporeans, Malaysians and Indonesians may be used to. Fatimah Patel, a South African Muslimah living and travelling in Japan, tells us what it's like living in beautiful Japan in 2022. ?

Being A Muslimah In Japan

Credit: Fatimah Patel

1. Tell us a little bit about yourself! Your name, age, the country you originate from etc. 

Hi Assalamualaikum, my name is Fatimah Patel. I am 28 years old, born and raised in Durban, South Africa. I've been in Japan for 3.5 years. 

2. How long have you been living in Japan & what made you decide to live in Fukushima?

I came to Japan through the JET program and am currently in my fourth year of living in Koriyama, Fukushima. The JET program is an English teaching program that promotes cultural exchange between Japan and native English speaking countries. When applying you have no idea where you will be placed or what school level you will be teaching in, so you go in with an open mind and with no expectations. Fukushima was not on the top of my list to visit, but I feel truly blessed to have had this opportunity of living here and exploring the lesser-known part of Japan!

3. What’s your favourite thing about Japan & Japanese Culture so far? 

Credit: Fatimah Patel

The ease and safety of travelling. It may not seem like a big thing but coming from South Africa where we don't have a great or safe public transport system, is amazing! I’ve been to about 27 prefectures out of 47 alhamdulillah. Travelling around Japan, solo, has not had any hassle regardless of transport. I've done all types of transport; overnight buses, Shinkansens, ferry, local trains and driving. Although, I most enjoy driving! ?

Some precautions I take when travelling include finding female-only hostels, if I’m doing a budget trip. If I’m doing a car camping trip I’ll look for places to park in that look and feel safe. Most of the time someone knows where I am or will be going!

4. Was it difficult adapting to the changes in Japan? Eg. Language Barrier, Way of life

Credit: Fatimah Patel

Living in a new place is never easy. Living in a new place, with a new language; you go from being a semi-decent-functioning adult to being a fish out of water! It is a humbling experience. Though you don't need to know the language to make connections, it definitely helps deepen the connection (between you and others) if you embrace, respect and understand the differences around you. That way, the struggles become growth. However, with that being said, I did have a lot of help from my school to help me with the initial transition, for which I am forever grateful.

5. How has life changed since Covid-19?

Credit: Fatimah Patel

For one, being able to visit home. Japan hasn't imposed national lockdowns like other countries but they have tightened the borders and continue to keep these restrictions in place, even now. Before COVID the trip home was already far. Now, it seems exponentially further with many hurdles to overcome. Hopefully, this new year will be better. God willing.

6. What are the questions that you often receive from locals about Islam?

I surprisingly haven't received many questions from locals even though I am visibly Muslim with my headscarf! Japanese people tend to be shy and won't ask even if they are curious, out of respect. It also helps that a lot of Japanese fashion is more covered up, so wearing long sleeves during summer is a common sight. Though at school, I've gotten the common "Aren't you feeling hot", "Do you sleep with it on", "What will happen to you if you eat pork or drink alcohol" type of questions from students.

7. Is there a Muslim community where you live?

There's a handful of Muslims in Koriyama, enough to have a small Masjid on the outskirts of the city. It's not an active community but alhamdulillah during Ramadan, they hold Taraweeh Prayers which makes a huge difference.

8. What are your favourite halal eateries in Fukushima?

Credit: Fatimah Patel

Ah, Halal-certified restaurants in Fukushima are non-existent but there are numerous Indian/Pakistani/Nepalese restaurants. They are familiar with Halal and the majority of them buy their meat from international suppliers which are Halal. In my experience, it is best to ask and make your own decision based on that. Another go-to place is called "Gyomu Super" there you can find a wide variety of frozen Halal certified meats and snacks.

9. What can travellers to Fukushima (when it's safe to do so) look forward to?  

Credit: Fatimah Patel

My favourite place to eat in Koriyama is a vegan cafe called "Branch" and for coffee "Flat White Coffee Factory Miharu" another hidden spot is Sora cafe (Cafe-hopping is my part-time hobby haha).  You also can't come to Japan and not try Fukushima peaches, eat Manju in Aizuwakumatsu and Negi Soba in Ouchijuku.

Credit: Fatimah Patel

Fukushima is for outdoor lovers so pack your boots, grab a hat and explore but also maybe hire a car to fully take in the beauty of Fukushima. It has a lot to offer so don't write it off! The Autumn foliage around Goshikinuma Ponds, The Spring blossoms of Miharu Takizakura, The Winter wonderland scene of the Tadami Bridge View Spot and the Sazaedo Temple for architecture... just to name a few.

11. Do you ever think about moving back to your home country?

South Africa is and will always be home because that is where my parents are, so yes I do think about moving back but currently, I'm taking each day as it comes :) 

“When you do things from your soul, you feel a river moving in you, a joy.” -Rumi

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