Japanese in France

Introduction / History

Japanese began coming to France late in the nineteenth century, generally individuals who came for cultural and intellectual reasons, which gained them additional status at home, where they would typically return. Additional Japanese came to France in small numbers until World War II, when their immigration there came to an end. After the war, well-educated professional workers, such as journalists came to live in France.
France and Japan became important partners starting the second half of the 19th century in the military, economic, legal, and artistic fields. Today Japan is modernizing its army and shipbuilding with French assistance. France and Japan have enjoyed a very robust and progressive relationship spanning centuries through various contacts in each other's countries by senior representatives, strategic efforts, and cultural exchanges.
Most of the ethnic Japanese in France live in Paris.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Japanese expatriates in France largely possess mastery of the French language, and only a relatively small percentage of the French have any negative attitudes toward the Japanese. There is good social relations with them.
The Japanese in France generally acculturate themselves in French urban areas, though for the most part avoid public expressions of ethnic identity which might emphasize their separateness from the French. Japanese social life is linked to business rather than place of residence, as is common with other minorities.
Elements of Japanese culture have also been added to the French landscape, notably in Paris, where sushi bars and Japanese restaurants are common. France derived part of its modern artistic inspiration from Japanese art to a significant degree through its influence on Impressionism. One of the most noteworthy elements of Japanese presence in France are the large number of Japanese educational programs, which number up to 30 nationwide. There are also a number of well-known ethnic Japanese in the performing arts.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Of those who are religious, some of the Japanese are Buddhists and others belong to the Shinto religion; these can overlap. Most of the Buddhist temples in France which serve the Japanese community are affiliated with the Zen branch of Mahayana Buddhism.

What Are Their Needs?

Like people everywhere, the Japanese people need to allow the loving Savior to direct their lives. They need his forgiveness for sin.

Prayer Points

Pray the Japanese would see they do not have to live in slavery to spirits if they put their trust in Jesus Christ.
Pray for the Lord to intervene in their families, calling people to his side.
Pray for loving workers.
Pray for their hearts to be drawn to the Lord of lords.
Pray for a church planting movement to thrive in their communities.

Text Source:   Joshua Project