Prayer times – Karatsu

Muslim Presence in Karatsu: Karatsu, a coastal city in Saga Prefecture, Japan, is home to a small but established Muslim community. While historical records of Muslim settlement in the city are limited, the presence of Islamic centers and mosques in nearby cities like Fukuoka and Saga indicates a growing network of Muslim residents and visitors in the region. The community is supported by local organizations that provide religious guidance and cultural exchange.

Community Implantation and Prayer Places: The Muslim community in Karatsu is served by several prayer facilities in the surrounding area. Notable among them is the Fukuoka Masjid Al Nour Islamic Culture Center, located about 47 km away in Fukuoka's Higashi Ward. This center offers a dedicated space for prayers and community activities. Additionally, the Itoshima Masjid (25 km) and the Saga Islamic Center and Saga Masjid (both around 38 km) provide further options for worship. These mapped prayer places reflect the implantation of the Muslim community across the region, with accessible routes for residents of Karatsu.

Prayer Time Orientation: Muslims in Karatsu observe the five daily prayers—Fajr, Dhuhr, Asr, Maghrib, and Isha—according to the local timezone (Asia/Tokyo). Prayer times vary throughout the year due to seasonal changes in sunrise and sunset, influenced by the city's latitude. The Qibla direction for Karatsu is oriented towards Mecca, and the distance to Mecca is approximately 9,200 km. The calculation method used for prayer times is based on standard conventions, ensuring accuracy for the community's daily rhythm.