Geography

Tokyo, the capital of Japan, is one of the largest cities in the world. It is governed by two administrations: the eastern half is divided into 23 wards, and the western half is called the Tama district. The area is about 90 kilometers from east to west, and quite narrow from north to south. Most of Tokyo sits on the Musashino Plateau. The eastern section of the city lies on the northern end of the Tokyo Bay. The area is divided into the higher hills of the west, and the heavily populated eastern section. Tama River cuts across the westem section of Tokyo, with the beginning of the river located all the way to the western border of Yamanashi Prefecture.

Industry & Economy

Recently many controversial issues have arisen in regard to transferring the government functions away from Tokyo city proper. The national govemment has been exploring various possibilities in an attempt to simplify the govemmental systems, but it is too early to tell whether or not it will be possible. Nevertheless, it is very likely that Tokyo will remain a center of industry and economy. Tokyo's soaring land prices and worsening environmental problems have caused many to move away from the city proper to outlying areas such as the Tama district.

Cultural Background

During the Tokugawa era, Edo (later renamed Tokyo) grew into a city of a million people, the first ever in the world. Perhaps this phenomenon prevented true modemization of the city leaving just an artificial and materialistic culture. The people's way of thinking has not really changed much since the days of Edo. The good qualities have been lost, Ieaving mostly the negative. Changes have taken place in the environment, and there is quite a difference in the western mountain area compared to the urban east. The conservative practices and beliefs commonly held throughout Kanto still exist among farming and mountain villagers in the Tama district.

Religious Milieu

There are many famous temples and shrines in the metropolitan and suburban area, many which are still considered places of worship among residents: the historic Okunitama Shrine in Fuchu, Jindai Temple in Chofu, and the Mitake Shrine and Mt. Takao Yakuoin whose origins are believed to be traced to "Mountain Religion." The majority of Buddhist, Shintoist and the "New Religion" groups are headquartered in Tokyo. Christian cult groups also base their activities here.

The Mission

Paul began his missionary journey at Antioch, the great Mediterranean city of his time. He traveled extensively through the major cities, Iconium, Ephesus, Philippi, Athens and Corinth, eventually working his way to Rome. Missionary work in big cities is vital to successfully spread the gospel of Christ. As Antioch and Rome were important to Paul, so is Tokyo an important key for evangelizing Japan. There is much work remaining for the ministry.