This Country Just Banned Islam, So Muslims Do Something UNTHINKABLE Japanese culture and government has always been distinctly its own, taking little influence from outside powers or from fear of being politically correct. Thats probably one of the major reasons why Japan has been able to defend itself against the influence of Islam. Japan maintains civil relationships with Islamic countries when it comes to business, but these relationships are kept at an arms length. Within Japan, Muslims must practice their religion in their own homes. They are prohibited from attempting to convert anyone to Islam. This is probably why Muslims make up such a small portion of Japans 127 million residents, totally just under one hundredth of a percent. There are very few mosques or Islamic institutions anywhere. Thats a stark contrast to the United States. Some have claimed that Japans policies make them intolerant and racist. Others argue that the Japanese are exercising their right to strengthen a sense of nationalism by preserving their unique culture and identity. What do you think of Japans policies? 