Masjid As-Salaam (Ueno Okachimachi Mosque): Your Quiet Spot in Tokyo’s Busy Market
Masjid As Salaam, also known as the Ueno Okachimachi Mosque, is a key landmark for the international Muslim community in Tokyo. Masjid As Salaam is located between the bustling districts of Ueno and Akihabara; this area is famous for its markets and electronics. This mosque serves as more than just a place of worship. It’s a busy hub that meets the daily needs of countless foreign residents. If you’re a Muslim in Japan, particularly in Tokyo’s Ueno district, looking for a place to pray, learn, or connect with other Muslims, Masjid As Salaam is a great destination.
Masjid As-Salaam Overview: Location, Contact & General Info
Full Name: Masjid As-Salaam (Ueno Okachimachi Mosque)
Address: 3 Chome-24-7 Higashi-ueno, Taito City, Tokyo 110-0015, Japan
Prefecture & City: Tokyo, Taito (Ueno Okachimachi)
Founded: Established in 2004
Affiliation: NPO Musashino Islamic Cultural Center
Website: Masjid As-Salaam
Phone: +81 3-3836-9630
History of Masjid As-Salaam:
Masjid As-Salaam’s story is about a community that came together and made its voice heard. As the Ueno-Okachimachi neighborhood became a home to many different people from other countries, including business owners and shoppers, it became clear that a dedicated and easy-to-reach place for prayer was needed.
The mosque officially opened in 2004, providing a permanent and much-needed center for worship. Since then, it has become a very important part of the lives of Muslims from many countries, especially those from Pakistan, Bangladesh, and the Middle East, who have been a big part of the local markets for a long time.
The mosque’s design is modern and practical, perfect for its busy city setting. Located in a multi-story building, it has a simple but noticeable green front.
The mosque is well-equipped to serve its lively congregation and visitors.
Separate Prayer Halls: The mosque has prayer areas for both men and women, ensuring a respectful and private space for everyone.
Ablution Facilities: Clean and dedicated ablution (wudu) facilities are available, which are essential for those who visit between shopping or work.
Community Rooms: There are spaces used for religious lectures and community meetings.
Burial Service: The mosque also provides a vital burial service for the local Muslim community.
Religious and Community Events at Masjid As-Salaam:
As a central point for the local Muslim community, the mosque is very active. It hosts the five daily prayers and a popular weekly Friday sermon (Jummah), which are especially busy during the lunch and afternoon prayers, as people working in the nearby markets and offices come to pray.
It also serves as a hub for celebrations during Islamic holidays, such as Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha. During these times, the mosque brings people from different backgrounds together to share in the joy and spiritual atmosphere.
The mosque’s location makes it incredibly easy to reach.
Nearest Stations: The mosque is a short walk from several major stations:
- Okachimachi Station (御徒町駅) on the JR Yamanote and Keihin-Tohoku lines.
- Ueno-Okachimachi Station (上野御徒町駅) on the Toei Oedo Line.
- Ueno Station (上野駅) is on a huge number of lines.
- By Foot: It’s about a 5-minute walk from Okachimachi Station and a 10-minute walk from Ueno Station, a major transportation and tourist hub.
Finding the Mosque: The green-colored building is easy to spot in a neighborhood known for its mix of shops and eateries.
Halal Food Options Near Masjid As-Salaam:
This area is a paradise for halal food lovers. The streets around the mosque are packed with options.
Halal Restaurants: The Ueno and Okachimachi area is famous for its large number of Pakistani, Indian, and Middle Eastern restaurants. You can find everything from delicious curries and naan to kebabs and biryani just steps away from the mosque.
Halal Groceries: Nearby, you can also find a number of small halal grocery stores and markets selling imported goods, spices, and fresh halal meat.
Visitor Tips and Information for Touring Masjid As-Salaam:
Dress Code: Visitors are kindly asked to dress modestly.
Photography: Photography is generally permitted, but please be respectful of people who are praying.
Visiting Hours: The mosque is open for prayer throughout the day. It’s best to visit outside of prayer times to avoid crowding.
Languages: Given the diverse community, you will likely find someone who can communicate in English, Urdu, or other languages.
Useful Links and Further Information
Website: Masjid As-Salaam
Google Maps Location: Masjid As-Salaam
Other Mosques in Japan: (Otsuka Mosque)