Japan’s complex and forgotten ties with Islam
A false rumor started in the early 20th century that the Japanese emperor would convert to Islam. It helped Japan build alliances with Muslims across Asia.
Japan's historical connections with Islam stretch back centuries, but these relationships have largely faded into obscurity. During the early 20th century, Japan strategically utilized positive perceptions of Islam among Muslims to forge alliances across Asia. The Japanese emperor's conversion to Islam, a rumor that gained traction, fueled this alliance-building process.
Despite Japan never being colonized, it actively sought to establish itself as a leader among Asian nations, aspiring to counteract European dominance. This pursuit led to secret collaborations between Japanese military intelligence and Muslim nationalist groups, aiming to create a pro-Japanese network. Figures like Omar Yamaoka, a Muslim convert to Islam who remained committed to Japanese imperialism, played a role in these clandestine efforts.
Written by urgent.news from The Jakarta Post's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
