Japanese in Netherlands

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).

At the end of WWII, Japan lay in ruins, but they soon emerged as an economic power. Today their economy is the third largest in the world. In order to keep their many multi-national corporations running the way they want them to, some have sent their staff members to other parts of the world, usually on a temporary basis.

Where Are they Located?

The majority of the Japanese live in Japan, but there is also a diaspora all over the world, especially in Brazil, the US, Canada, and Peru. A smaller number live in European countries like the Netherlands.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The Japanese have a strong work ethic, and they often work very long hours. They speak mainly Japanese among themselves and have little social contact with the local population.

The Japanese in the Netherlands are mostly businessmen and business executives. Among the prominent Japanese companies in the Netherlands are Hitachi, Panasonic, Toyota, Yamaha, Mitsubishi, and Yakult. With each of these international corporations comes some Japanese executives. Chamber-of-commerce-like associations and Young Executive programs give the Japanese opportunities to network through business and cultural events such as a Cherry Blossom Festival, a golf tournament, and a Japanese Festival. Companies such as Yakult sponsor cultural bedrocks such as the Dutch Philharmonic Orchestra and the Van Gogh Museum. Japanese restaurants, supermarkets, and schools meet the needs of Japanese families in the Netherlands.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Japanese are usually both Buddhist and Shintoist. Many Japanese are indifferent and skeptical of established religion. Many treat religion as a means towards an end. But given the high number of Japanese-based religious groups, one can surmise that many Japanese are looking for some form of spirituality.

What Are Their Needs?

On the outside, the Japanese in the Netherlands seem to have few needs. However, many of them have become obsessed with materialistic pleasures, careers, and possessions. They need to find their true worth in a relationship with the King of kings.

Prayer Points

Pray for the Holy Spirit to give the Japanese people in the Netherlands teachable and understanding hearts.
Pray for Jesus movements to bless extended Japanese families so the gospel will spread rapidly among this people group.
Pray for the spiritual lives of the Japanese people in the Netherlands to become fruitful as they follow Christ.
Pray for the lives and culture of the Japanese people to evidence the rule and reign of the Kingdom of God as they open to the gospel, and for the beauty of Jesus to be seen in them.

Text Source:   Keith Carey