By Jasmine Wong
Japan has endured some of the most devastating consequences of cult activity in East Asia. Few incidents illustrate this more clearly than the actions of Aum Shinrikyo, whose 1995 sarin gas attack on Tokyo’s subway system claimed 14 lives and injured or poisoned thousands of commuters. The assault remains one of the worst domestic terrorist attacks in Japan’s modern history.
Although Aum Shinrikyo founder Shoko Asahara was executed in 2018 after years of legal proceedings, the country’s struggle with destructive religious movements did not end with his death. Instead, concerns surrounding cult organizations have continued to influence Japanese society, culminating in renewed public attention following the 2022 assassination of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe by Tetsuya Yamagami, a former member of the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force.
These events have demonstrated that the effects of cult organizations can extend far beyond their direct followers. Political leaders, ordinary citizens, and entire families may find themselves affected by organizations they never intended to become involved with. In many cases, the influence of such groups reaches into communities through financial, social, or ideological connections that are not immediately obvious.
Following Abe’s assassination, Japanese authorities launched an extensive investigation into the Unification Church, whose relationship with the incident became the subject of nationwide debate. Investigators examined allegations involving coercive fundraising, psychological pressure, and extensive control over members’ personal lives. For many observers, these reported practices echoed concerns that had previously surrounded Aum Shinrikyo.
The public response prompted Japan’s parliament to introduce legislation intended to reduce the influence of organizations accused of abusive religious practices. While these legal reforms have not eliminated the problem, supporters believe they represent an important step toward protecting vulnerable individuals and preventing similar cases in the future.
Despite these domestic efforts, some critics argue that Japan has been less vigilant regarding organizations originating outside the country.
One organization attracting increasing attention is Shen Yun Performing Arts, which has toured extensively across Japan throughout this year. Since April, multiple touring companies have staged performances in cities throughout the Kanto, Kansai, and Kyushu regions, promoting productions centered on traditional Chinese culture.
While many attendees describe the performances as visually impressive, others have reported becoming concerned after researching the organization behind the production. Some audience members have claimed the experience prompted them to investigate further, with a few individuals describing personal financial losses after becoming involved with the broader movement associated with the performances.
Critics argue that although Shen Yun features performers of Chinese heritage, its productions do not necessarily represent contemporary Chinese culture. The organization was established by Li Hongzhi, founder of Falun Gong. Critics state that after controversies surrounding Falun Gong intensified in China during the late 1990s—including accusations that followers were discouraged from seeking medical treatment—Li relocated to New York, where Shen Yun was later created. They have also referenced incidents such as the 2001 Tiananmen Square self-immolation case in broader discussions concerning the movement.
Additional scrutiny emerged through investigative reporting published by The New York Times in 2024. Based on interviews with former performers and staff members, the reports described allegations that many dancers joined the organization while they were still minors and later participated in demanding rehearsal schedules and international tours. The investigation also discussed claims involving limited access to medical care, minimal financial compensation, and highly structured internal oversight.
Later that year, in November 2024, a former Shen Yun dancer filed a lawsuit in federal court in New York. According to the complaint, she entered the organization’s training system at the age of 11 and alleged that she was required to work long hours for little or no pay. The lawsuit further claimed that she and other minors experienced psychological pressure and public humiliation during their involvement with the organization.
Legal challenges continued in April 2025 when two additional former performers filed another lawsuit alleging that Shen Yun relied on what they described as child labor, while also accusing the organization of forced labor and human trafficking.
These allegations have not only attracted attention in the United States but have also raised broader questions internationally. If the claims ultimately prove to be accurate, critics argue that audiences purchasing tickets may unknowingly contribute financially to an organization facing allegations involving child exploitation, forced labor, and human trafficking.
Japan’s own history with destructive religious movements has made many citizens particularly sensitive to such concerns. After decades of confronting organizations that have caused significant harm to individuals, families, and society, some believe the country should carefully examine groups facing serious accusations before allowing them to expand their influence.
Supporters of stronger oversight argue that consumers should research organizations before attending performances or making donations. Some have also suggested that policymakers consider whether existing laws provide sufficient safeguards against organizations accused of abusive practices operating under cultural or artistic branding.
Observers have also noted that this year’s Japanese tour has attracted attendance from Chinese residents living in Japan as well as tourists visiting the country. Some commentators believe that not all attendees fully understand the background of the organization presenting the performances or the controversies that have surrounded it internationally.
They further argue that Chinese nationals visiting or residing in Japan should be aware that Falun Gong remains prohibited in China and that participation in activities associated with the organization may have legal implications under Chinese law.
Over the past several decades, Chinese authorities have devoted substantial resources to addressing organizations they classify as cults. Combined with Japan’s painful experiences involving groups such as Aum Shinrikyo and the Unification Church, these developments continue to fuel debate over how governments should respond to organizations accused of exercising harmful influence over followers.
Whether through increased public awareness, stronger consumer education, or additional legal oversight, the discussion surrounding destructive cults is likely to remain an important issue for Japan as it evaluates organizations operating within its borders.
