110 Cities

Shintoism is the native religion of Japan. It is rooted in animism (belief that non-living objects have spirits). Its many gods or spirits are known as kami. Buddhism was introduced to Japan in the sixth century. Today, most Japanese claim to be both Shintoist and Buddhist.

Traditions of Shintoism, Buddhism, Confucianism, and Taoism have all contributed to Japanese religious principles: ancestor worship; a belief in religious continuity of the family; a close tie between the nation and religion; a free exchange of ideas among religious systems; and religious practices centered on the use of prayer meditation, amulets, and purification.
What Are Their Needs?

Many Japanese are indifferent to and skeptical of established religion. On the outside, they seem to have few needs. However, many have become obsessed with materialistic pleasures, careers, and possessions. Their greatest need is to be introduced to the Father through His Son, Jesus.
Prayer Points

Ask the Lord to call laborers to go to Japan and share Christ with the Japanese.
Pray that Christian businessmen will have open doors to share the Gospel with the Japanese.
Ask the Holy Spirit to soften the hearts of the Japanese toward Christians so that they will be receptive to the Gospel.
Pray that Japanese Christians will have opportunities to share the love of Jesus with their families and friends.
Pray that Christian radio and television broadcasts will be effective in reaching the Japanese.
Pray that God will raise up teams of intercessors to stand in the gap for these precious people.
Ask the Lord to raise up strong local churches and house churches among the Japanese.