Upcoming Trips
Serving Christ in Japan
Summer 2027
TBD
The purpose of each trip is to serve returnee families by offering kids camps, adult gatherings, 1:1 conversations, teaching, and intentional listening. These events are held in major cities throughout Japan, primarily in Tokyo. While every trip shares this core focus, each one is unique and may also include additional opportunities such as pastors’ gatherings, local young adult gatherings, or other ministry activities based on local needs.
Ministry Activities
RETURNEE FOCUSES
LOCAL FOCUSES
IMMERSION FOCUS
THE JAPANESE CULTURE
Quick Facts
Population: ~125 million
Capital: Tokyo
Language: Japanese
Currency: Japanese Yen (¥)
Religion: Shinto & Buddhism (many identify as non-religious)
Christian Population: ~1%
Time Zone: Japan Standard Time (UTC +9)
Climate: Hot, humid summers; mild winters
Safety: One of the safest countries in the world
Culture: Highly relational, respectful, and community-oriented
Less than 1%
Japan is considered one of the most unreached people groups in the world, with less than 1% of the population identifying as Christian. While Japan is a highly developed and prosperous nation, many people have limited exposure to the gospel.
There is no widespread persecution of Christianity, and missionary visas are available, making Japan one of the most open countries to missions.
Yet many have never heard or understood the message of Christ.
DAILY INTERACTIONS
Life in Japan
Politeness & Respect
Calm speech and consideration for others are essential in everyday interactions.
Greetings
Simple greetings go a long way.
Use honorifics like -san.
Group Harmony
Being patient, flexible, and mindful of others is highly valued.
PUBLIC BEHAVIOR
Life in Japan
Public Transportation
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Trains and buses are quiet and orderly
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Keep phones on silent and avoid phone calls
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Stand in line and wait your turn
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Offer priority seating to elderly, pregnant, or disabled passengers
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Avoid eating or drinking on public transportation
Noise Level
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Public spaces are generally quiet
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Speak softly and avoid raised voices
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Phone calls in public areas are discouraged
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Silence is normal and respectful
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Be mindful of noise in shared spaces
Food & Dining
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Meals are often eaten as served, and substitutions are usually not available
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Saying itadakimasu before eating and gochisōsama deshita after is polite
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Typical meals include rice, miso soup, fish, noodles, and bento-style dishes
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Slurping noodles is normal and not considered rude
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Trash cans are limited, so be prepared to carry your trash
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And yes, McDonald’s exists everywhere in Japan and somehow tastes better there
Currency
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Japan uses the Japanese Yen (¥)
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Cash is still widely used, especially at small shops and restaurants
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Credit cards are accepted in many places, but not everywhere
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Place money on the tray provided rather than handing it directly to the cashier
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Convenience store ATMs, such as 7-Eleven, work well with foreign cards