Hawzah News Agency- Kazuki Suleyman Kanehara, 31, who lives in Kyoto, said he first encountered Islam while studying in Germany at the age of 19, when he met Muslim students for the first time.
He explained that his previous understanding of Islam was largely based on Japanese television and films, which frequently portrayed the religion negatively.
"What I hear about Muslims is from only TV about Islam," he said. "I had some dangerous image, maybe through movies and stuff, but I was never judging, so I never met Muslims''.
Kanehara said he began learning about Islam through a Turkish friend named Ismail.
"He's the reason I started researching, studying about Islam. He has been very patient, teaching me Islam. And, he was a good role model to me. He's been really nice to me all the time. Even I was wrong. He's been big brother to me''.
Later, his Turkish friend Ismail introduced him to a religious teacher.
During his visit, Kanehara stayed with the teacher's family and was impressed by their hospitality. "That made me think (about) what they believe in and what Islam (really) is'', he said.
"What is this religion? What makes them become kind to me this much. In Japan, we also welcome travelers, other family members, but not this much. Turkish hospitality. Just, it touched my heart''.
During his visit, Kanehara stayed with the teacher's family and was impressed by their hospitality. "That made me think (about) what they believe in and what Islam (really) is'', he said.
"What is this religion? What makes them become kind to me this much. In Japan, we also welcome travelers, other family members, but not this much. Turkish hospitality. Just, it touched my heart''.
After researching the religion for several years, Kanehara said his perspective changed rapidly once he began reading the Quran.
"The Quran is the most beautiful and perfect book that ever exists," he said. "We are Muslims. We're not perfect. So I would say if you want to learn (about) Islam, read Quran."
Kanehara said he formally embraced Islam in Osmaniye by reciting the shahada with his friend and teacher present.
After researching the religion for several years, Kanehara said his perspective changed rapidly once he began reading the Quran.
"The Quran is the most beautiful and perfect book that ever exists," he said. "We are Muslims. We're not perfect. So I would say if you want to learn (about) Islam, read Quran''.
Now operating a restaurant in Kyoto, he prepares traditional Japanese dishes in accordance with halal food principles and also shares content about Islam on social media.
He said he sees similarities between Islamic teachings and Japanese cultural values, particularly respect for elders.
Kanehara later adopted the name Suleyman after learning about the life of the Prophet Solomon.
He added that his wife later converted to Islam , and the couple now has two young sons.
Source: Anadolu Agency
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