Yuji Yokoyama

Yuji Yokoyama was born in Hiroshima, Japan, on March 9, 1952, to Toshio and Takako Yokoyama. He was the eldest of two children, with a younger sister, Chikako. From an early age, Yuji was known for his sharp intellect and quiet determination to seek the truth.

At 16, he encountered the Divine Principle through Mrs. Yukie Sawamukai. After reading the book thoroughly, he felt he had found a truth worth dedicating his life to. This marked the beginning of his lifelong spiritual journey. He later joined CARP (Collegiate Association for the Research of Principles) while attending Kyoto University, and at 22, he married Michiko Yamamoto on February 8, 1975.

Yuji moved to the United States in 1976 to support the Yankee Stadium Rally and remained afterward to work in journalism. He began at The News World in New York and later served as U.S. Bureau Chief for Sekai Nippo, a newspaper. His time living in Harlem sparked a deep interest in racial justice, leading him to interview Civil Rights leaders including Coretta Scott King and Walter Fauntroy. He published a book on the Civil Rights Movement in Japan in 2011, one of three books he authored.

In 1986, Yuji and his family settled in Washington, D.C. Over time, he shifted from journalism to interpretation, ultimately serving as a high-level interpreter for international diplomatic events, G7 summits, and U.S.–Japan defense initiatives. His calm presence and precise translation helped bridge cultures during critical conversations between world leaders. Colleagues respected him not just for his skill, but for his belief that language, faithfully conveyed, could build understanding.

Beginning in 1998, with a break from 2001 to 2005, Yuji served each year as an interpreter for the Chu-SAM Project, a long-standing bilateral initiative between Japan’s Self-Defense Forces and the U.S. Army, at White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico. He often said, “New Mexico is my second home.” He loved the vast landscape and found joy in hiking throughout the Las Cruces area during his free time.

Yuji was active with the American Clergy Leadership Conference (ACLC), and The Universal Peace Federation (UPF), where he and Michiko built deep and lasting friendships across many ethnic and religious communities in Northern Virginia.

Nature was one of Yuji’s greatest loves. With a camera in hand, he enjoyed hiking and exploring, whether on his own, with friends, or with family. He made a point to visit many national parks throughout his life, and one of his favorite local destinations was the Shenandoah Valley. He often stopped to photograph flowers, trees, or wide scenic views, and would later excitedly share his finds with his loved ones.

On Sunday, June 29, 2025, Yuji went hiking in the Slot Canyon area of New Mexico and did not return. He was found on Tuesday, July 1, having passed away during the hike.

Yuji leaves a legacy of love to his beloved wife of 50 years, Michiko; their 4 adult children Misono (Daniel), Ted (Elisa), Miwa (Kenneth), and Kosei; their granddaughters—Mio, Mirei, Mia, and Sophia; and a grandson expected in October.