Yasukuni Shrine: A Contested Memorial

Yasukuni Shrine (靖国神社, Yasukuni Jinja), meaning "Peaceful Country Shrine," is a Shinto shrine in central Tokyo established in 1869 by Emperor Meiji. It was created to honor the spirits of those who died in service to Japan, beginning with the Boshin War and encompassing conflicts through the First Indochina War. Approximately 2.5 million individuals are enshrined here, their names, origins, and dates of death meticulously recorded. Visitors entering the grounds will pass through the Daiichi Torii, a towering steel and bronze gate. Further in, the Daini Torii, the largest bronze torii gate in Japan, leads to the main shrine area. Here, you'll find the Haiden Main Hall, where visitors pay their respects, and statues such as the bronze figure of Omura Masujiro, an important figure in Japan's modernization. The Shinchi Teien garden behind the Honden (Main Sanctuary) offers a tranquil space for reflection. The Yushukan Museum on the grounds presents a comprehensive, albeit controversial, view of Japan's military history. Exhibits include artifacts, documents, and even a World War II fighter plane. Controversy surrounds Yasukuni Shrine due to the enshrinement of fourteen Class A war criminals in 1978. This has led to diplomatic tensions, particularly with China and South Korea, who view the shrine as a symbol of Japan's past militarism. Despite the controversy, Yasukuni Shrine remains an important religious site for many Japanese people, a place to remember and honor those who died for their country. The shrine is also known as a spot for cherry blossoms.