07/10/2023
Japanese pilgrims embarking on their journey to perform Hajj 2023 shared their thoughts and experiences with the Saudi Center for Government Communication (CGC). Almas Choji, a Japanese Muslim participating in Hajj for the first time, expressed that she learned about Islam from a Muslim acquaintance working in the food industry who taught her about Islamic practices and halal food. Choji revealed that her marriage four years ago included a unique dowry, a trip to Hajj, which they were unable to fulfill initially due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Upon witnessing the Grand Mosque in Makkah for the first time, Choji described it as more breathtaking and beautiful than she had imagined, despite having seen numerous pictures online of the mosque filled with people. She also drew a parallel between the tent city of the Holy Site of Mina and tourist camps in Japan, recognizing the similarities and finding a sense of self-discovery and reconciliation through the Hajj experience.
Another Japanese pilgrim, Saema Honda, marveled at the grandeur and vastness of the Holy Site while ascending the escalators. She appreciated the picturesque features of the mountains and compared them to Mina, noticing the changes from the pictures she had seen, including the improved services and facilities in Mina. Honda highlighted the opportunity Hajj provides to meet people from around the world and the joy she felt in forming connections and friendships, even though her face was covered by a mask.
Murama Tsuguku, another Japanese Hajj pilgrim, shared her journey of converting to Islam. She described an indescribable feeling when she first heard the call to prayer (Adhan), which prompted her to delve deeper into studying the Islamic religion.
These accounts reflect the profound impact of the Hajj experience on the Japanese pilgrims, evoking a range of emotions and spiritual awakening as they embark on this sacred journey.
