The life of 76-year-old Abdulkerim Shimoyama, a Japanese Muslim who has introduced Islam to his countrymen for 14 years at the Tokyo Mosque, is the focus of the documentary A Dervish in Tokyo.
Shimoyama, formerly named Shigeru, converted to Islam at 27 after encountering the faith during his studies in Sudan. The film, directed by Kürşat Kızbaz and produced with the support of the Tokyo Mosque Religious Foundation, highlights his journey and dedication. Foundation President Muhammad Rashid Alas described Shimoyama as “a very important and valuable figure” in promoting Islam in Japan.
Teaching at the Tokyo Mosque for 14 years, Shimoyama said, “I translate books and work as a tour guide here, introducing Islam to Japanese high school and university students. So far, we have hosted 95 universities. My goal is to help people understand Islam beyond stereotypes — to see it as a religion of peace, sincerity, and compassion.”
Burak Ersoy