11 Jun 2026 S1 E9 25:45

A More Muslim Japan

The number of Muslims in Japan has almost quadrupled in the last two decades. Migrants are coming in ever greater numbers to work there from countries like Indonesia. And yet, Islam is still seen as this... foreign, elusive thing. This week on the show, reporter Tanita Rahmani follows two Muslim women who try to change things. And begin the long journey towards normalizing their faith and the slow making of a more Muslim Japan. All through a unique—and universal—lens: food.

Episode Credits

Tanita Rahmani Reporter and Producer
Nadeen Shaker Reporter
Salman Ahad Khan Story Editor and Composer
Heba Elorbany Fact Checker
Joe Plourde Sound Design and Mixing
Alexander Overington Additional Music
Lina Jaradat Illustrator
Sohaira Siddiqui Host

Suggested Reading

To see some of the deep Japan spots where Esma and her groups prayed, check out @placesyoullpray on Instagram.

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