Eurasian in Japan

Introduction / History

It was fairly common right after WW2 for American servicemen to marry Japanese women, producing Eurasian children. Today Eurasians can be the offspring of a Japanese woman and an American serviceman, or a Japanese businessman and a western woman. There is more than one pattern.

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). For this reason, it is hard for people of mixed race to be accepted or find a spouse in ethnically pure Japan.

Where Are they Located?

People who are half Japanese can be found anywhere in urban Japan.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Japan is a country noted for their desire to remain ethnically pure as they have for many centuries. For this reason, those who are not pure Japanese are perceived as different. Ironically, the Japanese perceive women of mixed races as attractive, and in recent years they have sent two mixed race women to represent Japan in beauty contests.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Most Eurasians in Japan follow Japan's two major religions, Shintoism and Buddhism, yet they are seldom dedicated in their beliefs.

What Are Their Needs?

Eurasians in Japan need a sense of identity. Jesus can be their identity, and give them a sense of acceptance and love that they lack in Japan.

Prayer Points

Pray for believers to reach out the Eurasians with the love of Christ.
Pray that Eurasians in Japan will find the love and acceptance they need to thrive spiritually and experience joy and wholeness.

Text Source:   Keith Carey