What do you think of when you hear the word Japan? Rice, fuel efficient cars, raw fish and seaweed, or kimonos? Japan is all of these things, but more importantly, Japan is a country of people who need to hear the gospel.

Where warrior overlords and emperors ruled the island nation in its early history, the country is still governed today by a parliament.

The country of Japan has a rich cultural heritage that was heavily influenced by China and the introduction of Buddhism around the 6th century A.D. Temples and shrines cover the country. The Japanese flock to shrines for religious holidays and festivals throughout the year.

When ABWE first entered Japan in 1953, the work centered in Kagoshima City. Sunday school, Bible classes, and preaching services, combined with tract distribution and personal evangelism contributed effectively to the gospel ministry.

The first camp was held in 1955, and has proven an effective means of reaching Japanese young people. Since six years of English are required in junior and senior high school, teaching English to Japanese students provides an open door for sharing the gospel.

ABWE is looking for personnel who will persevere in learning the challenging Japanese language, and will reach out to these people who so desperately need to hear of God's love and forgiveness. It is difficult for the Japanese to break with traditions of their ancestors in a society that emphasizes conformity.

Missionaries are needed for church-planting teams in the population centers of the Kobe-Osaka area and in southern Kyushu. Other personnel needs include workers for deaf ministries and those who would teach English as a second language. These are both valuable evangelistic bridges into the community.