The Complex Legacy of Japan’s Yasukuni Shrine

Emperor Meiji made his first visit to the site that would become Yasukuni Shrine, a contentious symbol in Japan, in 1874. His intent was to ensure that the names of those who died for their country lived on forever. Today, Yasukuni Shrine in central Tokyo honors more than 2.4 million people. This includes 14 war criminals commemorated each August 15, marking Japan’s surrender in World War II.

For some, Yasukuni offers spiritual solace and a place to express gratitude. However, countries that experienced Japanese imperialism view it as a militarism symbol. Visits by Japanese leaders often face criticism from China and South Korea, perceiving these visits as inadequate remorse for wartime actions.

The Establishment of Yasukuni Shrine

Japan experienced a historic shift in the 19th century as imperial rule replaced a military government that lasted over 250 years. In 1869, a year after the dawn of this imperial era, Emperor Meiji ordered Yasukuni’s construction. The name Yasukuni translates to “peaceful country,” signifying its role in honoring those defending the imperial cause.

Historian Akiko Takenaka explains, “Yasukuni Shrine was initially conceived to send a message about the emperor and a new Japan.” This era positioned Meiji as the ultimate honor-bearer, reinforcing the honor in sacrificing one’s life for the empire.

Intertwining of Shinto and State

Under Shinto beliefs, Japanese emperors, including Meiji, were seen as sun goddess Amaterasu’s descendants. During the Meiji era, the concept of State Shinto emerged, blurring patriotism and religion lines. Scholar Susumu Shimazono notes that Meiji reformers aimed to establish a spiritual unity between the people and the emperor.

After WWII, in December 1945, State Shinto was abolished under U.S. Gen. Douglas MacArthur’s orders. This ended government-funded shrines and Shinto practices within public institutions. Consequently, Yasukuni became a private religious corporation, sparking debates on the constitutional separation of religion and state.

The Controversy of Enshrinements

Yasukuni functions not as a cemetery but as a site where spirits, or “kami,” are enshrined. Besides soldiers, the kami include women aiding on battlefields, students in wartime production, and foreign nationals serving Japan. Notably controversial are the 14 Class-A war criminals, including Prime Minister Hideki Tojo, a key figure in the Pearl Harbor attack. Their secret enshrinement by the head priest in 1978 followed Emperor Hirohito’s last visit in 1975.

Since learning of the enshrinement, Hirohito, and his successors refrained from visiting personally, opting for emissaries during key rites. Other enshrined individuals encompass Buddhists, Christians, Koreans, and Taiwanese, with families contesting their inclusion. Yet, Japanese courts dismissed efforts to remove relatives.

Yasukuni’s Varied Significance

Yasukuni holds different meanings for diverse individuals. Mark R. Mullins of the University of Auckland notes that for bereaved families, it may center on personal grief. Meanwhile, others yearn for restoring pre-war status lost during the war and occupation.

Near the shrine lies Yushukan Museum, displaying war artifacts. Critic John Breen highlights the museum’s one-sided portrayal of military history, excluding China and Korea’s perspectives.

Visitors like Kana Shindo, a Minato City Assembly member, find spiritual solace without endorsing war. Shindo explains, “I visit to purify my mind, give thanks to the kami, and reflect, not glorify war.” Politicians, she asserts, also possess religious freedom and personal conscience.

Continuing Ties to the Shrine

Before leaving for war, soldiers envisioned being enshrined at Yasukuni. “They told their families: ‘I want you to come see me at Yasukuni Shrine,’” recalls Toshiei Mizuochi, president of the Japan War-Bereaved Families Association. His father, a navy serviceman, died days before the war ended on August 9, 1945.

The remains of approximately one million of the over 2.4 million Japanese soldiers who died in WWII remain unrecovered. Bereaved families often believe Yasukuni houses the war dead’s spirits.

Relatives like Mizuochi visit beyond August 15, for ceremonies, anniversaries, and family milestone reports. “I visit Yasukuni Shrine countless times yearly,” Mizuochi shares. “As I pray, my father’s portrait comes to mind.”

Yasukuni Shrine remains a complex symbol for Japan, marrying remembrance with controversy.