Introduction / History

Racially, culturally, and ethnically, the Japanese are one of the most homogenous people groups in the world. They identify themselves in terms of biological heritage, birth in Japan, a shared culture, and a common language (Japanese).

The first ethnic Japanese to setting in Palau came in 1820 when a sailing ship was blown off course and they found their way to Palau. By 1890 the Japanese Empire established settlements and trading stations. Japanese men married the daughters of local chiefs. Japan annexed Palau from Germany in 1914. The Japanese began to settle there in larger numbers during the 1920s. Almost all Japanese were forced to leave when Japan lost WWII in 1945.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Palau gained her independence in 1994, and the Japanese began to establish businesses there. The Japanese have adapted to the cultural ways of the Palauans, though some speak Japanese at home. Most ethnic Japanese in Palau speak the local language, Palauan.

The Japanese have intermarried with the local people. Many who are in politics and the public sector in Palau have Japanese blood.

What Are Their Beliefs?

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. There are special Shinto shrines in Palau to commemorate Japanese soldiers who died there in WWII.

Traditions of Shintoism, Buddhism, Confucianism and Taoism have all contributed to Japanese religious principles. Many Japanese are indifferent and skeptical of established religion. Many do not see it as offering any help in today's world.

What Are Their Needs?

The Japanese in Palau are secure regarding their physical needs, but they have spiritual needs that only Jesus can address. They need to humbly ask Jesus Christ to provide them with the abundant life, which they think they can enjoy through material goods.

Prayer Points

Pray that the Japanese in Palau will find the need for a personal relationship with a holy, all-good God.
Pray that those who stay in Palau will have the chance to meet Christ-followers who love him, and want his name glorified among the Japanese.
Pray for a church planting movement among the Japanese in Palau that will spread to Japan.

Scripture Prayers for the Japanese in Palau.

References

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Japanese_settlement_in_Palau