Controversial Mosque in Japan Faces Demolition After Inauguration by Pakistani Ambassador
Japan could force demolition of ‘illegal’ mosque inaugurated by Pakistan’s ambassador
Image: The Independent
A mosque in Kawagoe, Saitama Prefecture, Japan, inaugurated by Pakistan's ambassador, is deemed illegal and faces demolition. The local government claims it was built without necessary permits in a protected area, raising concerns over urban planning and the growing Muslim community in Japan.
- 01The 'Ramadan Grand Mosque' was built on a 4,500 sqm plot classified as mountain forest in an urbanisation control zone.
- 02Kawagoe mayor Hatsue Morita stated the city cannot tolerate the illegal construction and is pursuing demolition.
- 03The mosque's construction was first reported to city officials in October 2024, but by then, it was nearly complete.
- 04The Pakistani embassy clarified that the ambassador attended the inauguration based on the belief that all permits were secured.
- 05Japan has approximately 160 mosques as of 2025, reflecting a growing Muslim population.
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The 'Ramadan Grand Mosque' in Kawagoe, Saitama Prefecture, Japan, has come under fire for being constructed illegally in an area designated for urban development control. The mosque, built on a 4,500 sqm plot, was inaugurated by Pakistan's ambassador to Japan, Abdul Hameed, who described it as a symbol of friendship. However, local authorities, led by Kawagoe's mayor Hatsue Morita, have declared the mosque illegal, stating it was erected without necessary permissions. The city first learned of the mosque's construction in October 2024, but inspectors found it nearly finished during their visit. Despite a promise from the landowner to demolish the structure, an opening ceremony took place in April 2025. The Pakistani embassy later confirmed the ambassador attended the event believing all legal requirements had been met. This incident highlights the challenges of accommodating Japan's growing Muslim population within existing urban planning frameworks.
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The demolition of the mosque could affect the local Muslim community and their access to religious facilities.
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