Published on
September 1, 2025
In the wake of a controversial announcement by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), protests have erupted in Japan’s major cities, Tokyo and Osaka, in response to the establishment of “hometowns” for African countries. This initiative aims to create designated areas within Japanese cities for Nigeria, Ghana, Tanzania, and Mozambique, with the goal of fostering closer ties with the African continent. The move, part of a broader initiative unveiled at the Tokyo International Conference on African Development, has sparked intense debate about Japan’s immigration policies and the impact of increased foreign presence in the country.
The “African Hometown Initiative” and Its Implications
The African Hometown Initiative, launched by JICA, has been described by officials as a means of creating a “peaceful and prosperous world” by promoting collaboration and cultural exchange between Japan and selected African nations. However, concerns have arisen, particularly in Imabari, where the Mozambican hometown is being established. Locals have voiced their anxiety over the possible long-term implications of this program, fearing it could be a step towards more permanent immigration. Thousands of phone calls and emails expressing concerns have been received by city officials in response to the announcement.
Despite the mounting protest, JICA and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs have clarified that the program is not intended to facilitate mass immigration. They emphasized that the initiative would primarily bring in interns from Africa who would receive training and return to their home countries upon completion of the program. This reassurance has not completely quelled the fears of those worried about the future of Japan’s strict immigration policies.
Protests Erupt in Major Cities
The announcement of the African Hometown Initiative has led to widespread protests across Japan. Demonstrators have gathered outside key locations, including the JICA headquarters in Tokyo, calling for an end to what they perceive as a relaxation of Japan’s historically stringent immigration laws. Placards reading “Protect Japanese People” and chants against mass migration were seen throughout the protests. The demonstrations have drawn significant attention, particularly following a statement from the Nigerian Government, which announced the possibility of a special visa category for talented Nigerians wishing to live and work in Japan.
However, the Japanese government has quickly moved to dispel these claims, with Chief Cabinet Secretary Hayashi Yoshimasa clarifying that no such visa category is planned. Japan’s Foreign Ministry also confirmed that the reports of special visas for Nigerian nationals were inaccurate, further stating that the initiative would only involve sending interns to Japan temporarily.
A Political Hotbed: Immigration and Over-Tourism Concerns
This controversy comes at a time when immigration and over-tourism have become hot-button issues in Japan. The number of foreign residents in Japan reached an all-time high of 3.8 million by the end of last year, accounting for three percent of the total population. As a result, there has been growing dissatisfaction among some locals who attribute a range of societal issues, including rising crime rates and living costs, to the increasing foreign population.
Additionally, Japan is grappling with the challenges of over-tourism, which reached a record-breaking 36.9 million visitors in 2024, according to the National Tourism Organization. This surge has put significant pressure on Japan’s infrastructure and has been blamed for overcrowded tourist spots, particularly in popular areas like Kyoto and Tokyo. The local population’s frustration has been fueled by rising costs associated with tourism and the strain on public services, leading to a call for more stringent tourism management policies.
The Rise of Nationalist Sentiments in Japan
The tension surrounding immigration and over-tourism has also contributed to the rise of nationalist political sentiments in Japan. The Sanseito party, a far-right political party, has gained traction in recent months by campaigning against the growing foreign presence in Japan. The party has warned against a “silent invasion” and has called for strict immigration policies under the banner of a “Japanese First” agenda. The party’s leader, Sohei Kamiya, has been vocal in criticizing Japan’s approach to foreign nationals, claiming that Japan risks becoming a “colony” if it does not resist foreign pressure.
In response to this growing sentiment, the Japanese government has set up a new office to crack down on foreigners who are perceived to be violating local rules. Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru has expressed that while foreign nationals bring economic benefits, it is crucial for Japan to maintain control over its immigration policies and ensure that newcomers integrate into society in a way that aligns with Japanese values.
The Changing Landscape of Immigration Policy
Japan has historically maintained a strict immigration policy, primarily due to its homogeneous population and cultural emphasis on maintaining social harmony. However, in recent years, the country has faced demographic challenges, particularly an aging population and a low birth rate, which have prompted discussions about the need for immigrant labor to support the economy. As a result, Japan’s immigration laws have been gradually relaxed, with new policies allowing for an influx of temporary foreign workers in various sectors, including healthcare, construction, and agriculture.
Despite the relaxation of these laws, the concept of immigration remains contentious. Japan’s government continues to emphasize that the foreign workforce will remain temporary and that the country will not adopt an open immigration policy. This approach has led to conflicting opinions about the long-term impact of increased foreign presence in Japan.
Impact on Tourism and Cultural Exchange
While immigration remains a sensitive issue, tourism has long been seen as a key driver of Japan’s economy. The recent announcement of the African Hometown Initiative underscores the country’s ongoing efforts to engage in cultural exchange with African nations. By fostering relationships with countries such as Nigeria, Ghana, Mozambique, and Tanzania, Japan hopes to promote greater understanding and cooperation between the two regions.
However, the tourism industry in Japan is not without its challenges. The surge in foreign visitors has exacerbated the issues of overcrowding and environmental degradation in popular tourist destinations. Many Japanese citizens have voiced concerns about the sustainability of tourism and the preservation of their cultural heritage, particularly in relation to the growing number of foreign tourists visiting key sites such as Mount Fuji and Kyoto’s temples.
Japan’s Future Path: Balancing Immigration and Tourism
As Japan continues to navigate its immigration and tourism policies, the country must strike a delicate balance between welcoming foreign workers and tourists while preserving its cultural identity and maintaining social harmony. The African Hometown Initiative represents a significant step in this direction, but it also highlights the ongoing tensions surrounding immigration and foreign presence in the country.
Ultimately, Japan’s ability to manage its growing foreign population and the impact of over-tourism will shape the future of its cultural and economic landscape. By carefully balancing these complex issues, Japan can ensure that it remains a global leader in fostering international relations while preserving its unique cultural heritage.
