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Japan Forward
03-07-2025
- General
- Japan Forward
Yasukuni Shrine and the Religious Spirit of the Japanese People
Yasukuni Shrine celebrated its founding anniversary on June 29. Soon it will host the vibrant Mitama Festival, held from the evening of July 13 to July 16. Timed to coincide with the modern Obon season, the festival draws large crowds of worshippers. It stands alongside the annual spring and autumn festivals (April 22 and October 18) as one of the shrine's most significant annual events. Over its three-week period, which also includes Okinawa Memorial Day on June 23, public attention naturally renews on the many issues surrounding Yasukuni Shrine. On a more personal note, July 10 marks the anniversary of the death of the shrine's sixth guji (chief priest), the late Nagakuni Matsudaira. Matsudaira once observed that "Yasukuni is a shrine under intense political pressure." This reflection was born from the many political storms he faced and steadfastly navigated during his tenure as guji. Fortunately, the details of these struggles are preserved in Seiron Extra No. 33: 150 Years of Yasukuni Shrine – Spirits of the Fallen and the Emperor's Worship . The Sankei Shimbun published it in December 2018, and it stands as an invaluable historical record. Even seven years after its release, the volume remains an authoritative resource, virtually an encyclopedia on Yasukuni Shrine. It provides clear and comprehensive answers to the wide range of questions readers continue to raise. Most notably, it includes an annotated reprint of Matsudaira's post-retirement testimony, "The Real Reason Why the Emperor's Visits to Yasukuni Ceased." Many regard this as the most nuanced and definitive account of one of postwar Japan's most politically sensitive issues. Thanks to the dedication of those who have long revered Yasukuni Shrine, it has weathered numerous challenges in the postwar era. A closer look at its outward form and its spiritual core reveals the shrine's striking consistency in upholding its identity, even through times of great upheaval. This enduring constancy serves as a powerful symbol of the original essence of Japanese religious sentiment. At its core, the Japanese sense of religion is rooted in ancestor worship and the veneration of ancestral spirits. Many believe that through reverent rituals, these spirits transform into protective deities watching over their descendants. This vertical bond, between the living and their deified forebears, eventually extends horizontally into community life. In turn, this gives rise to the ujigami (local guardian deities) and ujiko (parishioners) system, which is the spiritual foundation of villages across Japan. It was in this rich soil that Japanese religiosity took firm root. From the late Heian period (794-1185) to the early Kamakura era (1185-1333), the idea of enshrining guardian deities on a national scale emerged from the warrior clans and feudal domains. By the mid-16th century, Japan engaged in increasingly complex diplomacy with Portugal, Spain, and Ming China. Out of this emerged a new awareness, a sense of Japan as a nation situated within the broader world. Visitors queue up in the summer heat to pay their respects. Yasukuni Shrine, August 15, 2024 (© JAPAN Forward by Daniel Manning) In the mid-19th century, Western ships from the United States, Russia, and Britain began pressing Japan to open its ports. Many in Japan viewed these demands as a national crisis. In response to the upheaval that followed, officials established the Shokonsha (literally 'soul-inviting shrine'). It enshrined those who died fighting for the imperial restoration in the Boshin War (1868–69). From the outset, its purpose was clear: to honor these fallen as "martyrs to the nation." Following the Satsuma Rebellion of 1877, which resulted in even greater casualties than the Boshin War, the number of enshrined spirits exceeded 10,000. This prompted growing discomfort with the name Shokonsha, which implied a temporary resting place. The shrine's mission evolved into something more enduring: to permanently enshrine the spirits of those who gave their lives for the nation. In recognition of this, a new name was chosen — Yasukuni Shrine. Nearly 150 years have passed since the founding of Yasukuni Shrine. In that time, Japan faced numerous overseas conflicts. From the First Sino-Japanese War to the Russo-Japanese War, there were approximately 130,000 war dead. Including the casualties of the Second Sino-Japanese War and the Greater East Asia War, Yasukuni Shrine has enshrined more than 2.32 million souls. These individuals gave their lives in the noble service of defending the homeland. As such, the Japanese people revere them as guardian spirits of the nation. Their memory is honored not only by ordinary citizens. The Emperor himself also honors it, and has long offered sincere reverence as one protected by these spirits. This relationship of respect and devotion has endured, unchanged even after Japan's defeat in World War II. If one were to ask what defines the religious spirit of the Japanese people, a question of academic depth, Yasukuni Shrine offers one of the most profound answers. The shrine's evolving relationship with the public reveals shifting perspectives within Japanese society. Views on war, the world, life and death, Shinto, Buddhism, and even monotheistic religions have all intersected through this relationship. Seen through this lens, religion in Japan is not an isolated domain, but one deeply woven into the fabric of everyday life. (Read the Seiron essay in Japanese.) Author: Keiichiro Kobori, Professor Emeritus at the University of Tokyo
Japan Forward
01-07-2025
- General
- Japan Forward
An Imperial Week in Photos: Prayers for Peace and Celebrating the Arts
このページを 日本語 で読む To mark the 80th anniversary year of the end of World War II, Their Majesties Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako visited Hiroshima Prefecture. The region was one of the sites devastated by the atomic bombing during the war. On the 20th, they traveled to the Yagi district in Asaminami Ward, Hiroshima City. The area was struck by a massive landslide in August 2014 that claimed 77 lives. There, they offered a silent prayer in remembrance of the victims. Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako bow toward the site where homes once stood, near the Obarayama erosion control dam. Morning of June 20, Asaminami Ward, Hiroshima City. Their Majesties then observed the progress of erosion control projects and were briefed on ongoing recovery efforts and mental health support for local residents. They listened attentively and asked many questions, showing deep interest and concern. At the nearby Hiroshima City Heavy Rain Disaster Memorial Museum, the Emperor reflected on a program that encourages survivors to share their experiences. He remarked, "I see that talking with one another can bring a sense of peace." During a meeting with bereaved families, Their Majesties offered heartfelt condolences to a couple who had lost their two sons, aged 11 and 2. "It must have been truly difficult," they said with deep compassion. Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako view exhibits during a visit to the Hiroshima City Heavy Rain Disaster Memorial Museum. Morning of June 20, Asaminami Ward, Hiroshima City. Later that day, they visited Yano Orizuru-en, a care facility for atomic bomb survivors. A woman who had lost her mother due to the bombing's aftereffects expressed her gratitude for the Emperor's commitment to peace. The Empress gently responded, "You must have gone through such hardship. Your mother as well." That evening, Their Majesties returned to Tokyo from Hiroshima Airport. On June 23, Their Majesties Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako, along with their daughter Princess Aiko, observed a moment of silence at the Imperial Residence in honor of Okinawa Memorial Day. The day commemorates those who lost their lives during the Battle of Okinawa. Emperor Emeritus Akihito and Empress Emerita Michiko also observed a moment of silence at their home, the Sento Imperial Residence in Minato Ward, Tokyo. On June 24, Emperor Naruhito attended the Japan Art Academy Prize ceremony at the Japan Art Academy Hall in Ueno, Tokyo. The award honors individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the arts. During the event, the Emperor spoke with the recipients and observed a demonstration by renowned Bunraku puppeteer Kazuo Yoshida. He also handled a puppet's head to learn how it is operated. Emperor Naruhito speaks with recipients of the Japan Art Academy Prize and the Imperial Prize of the Japan Academy. Morning of June 24, Japan Art Academy Hall, Taito Ward, Tokyo. That afternoon, a tea reception was held at the Imperial Palace for the prize recipients and newly appointed Academy members. Empress Masako, Princess Aiko, Crown Prince Fumihito, Crown Princess Kiko, and their second daughter, Princess Kako, were also in attendance. Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako speak with Japan Art Academy Prize recipients during a tea reception at the Imperial Palace's "Rensui" Room. Afternoon of June 24, Imperial Palace. At the reception, Princess Aiko spoke with new Academy member and animation director Yoshiyuki Tomino about his work, including the iconic anime Mobile Suit Gundam . Princess Kako asked veteran actor Isao Hashizume, "What do you value most when developing a role?" Princess Aiko, daughter of Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako, and Princess Kako, second daughter of Crown Prince Fumihito and Crown Princess Kiko, speak with Japan Art Academy Prize recipients during a tea reception at the Imperial Palace's "Rensui" Room. Afternoon of June 24, Imperial Palace. Later, Their Majesties and Princess Aiko welcomed Princess Kako, who had returned from her official visit to Brazil on June 17. According to the Imperial Household Agency, she shared her experiences and interactions with the people of Brazil. On June 23, Princess Kako canceled a planned visit to the Musashino Mausoleum (the resting place of Emperor Hirohito) and the Musashino Higashi Mausoleum (the resting place of Empress Nagako) in the Musashi Imperial Graveyard in Hachioji City, Tokyo. The cancellation was due to symptoms of dizziness and fatigue. She had planned to report the completion of her Brazil visit at the sites. On June 26, the Imperial Household Agency announced that the family's beloved dog, Yuri, passed away on June 23. Yuri had been adopted in 2009 through an animal hospital. Their Majesties and Princess Aiko said their final goodbyes at the Imperial Residence. Emperor Naruhito, Empress Masako, and their daughter Princess Aiko with their dog Yuri on the grounds of the Nasu Imperial Villa in August 2019. On June 22, Princess Nobuko, widow of the late Prince Tomohito of Mikasa, returned to Japan following an unofficial visit to Hungary. While there, she attended the World Judo Championships. That same day, Princess Hisako met with recipients of the Prince Takamado Visiting Student Scholarship at her residence on the Akasaka Estate in Minato Ward, Tokyo. The scholarship was established in memory of her late husband, Prince Norihito, who studied at Queen's University in Canada. Author: Masashi Nakamura and Tomomi Yoshizawa, The Sankei Shimbun このページを 日本語 で読む
The Mainichi
30-06-2025
- Politics
- The Mainichi
The Mainichi News Quiz Answer for June 30
Why was June 23 selected as Okinawa Memorial Day? A) It marked the day U.S. troops withdrew from Okinawa. B) It was the day Okinawa returned to Japanese administration. C) It was the day organized Japanese military resistance was said to have ended in Okinawa. D) It was the day Japan and the U.S. signed peace documents. Correct Answer: C) It was the day organized Japanese military resistance was said to have ended in Okinawa. June 23 is observed as "Okinawa Memorial Day" because it is said to be when Japan's organized military resistance during the Battle of Okinawa ended in 1945, after a Japanese military commander took his own life. The day commemorates the lives lost in the fierce 1945 battle and serves as a reminder of the importance of peace.
The Mainichi
30-06-2025
- Politics
- The Mainichi
The Mainichi News Quiz: What is Okinawa Memorial Day?
How closely have you been following events in Japan? Try The Mainichi News Quiz for June 30 to test your news knowledge. Ready? Why was June 23 selected as Okinawa Memorial Day? A) It marked the day U.S. troops withdrew from Okinawa. B) It was the day Okinawa returned to Japanese administration. C) It was the day organized Japanese military resistance was said to have ended in Okinawa. D) It was the day Japan and the U.S. signed peace documents.
Japan Forward
25-06-2025
- General
- Japan Forward
Okinawa Memorial Day a Timely Reminder of Horrors of War
On Okinawa Memorial Day, June 23, the 80th anniversary of the Battle of Okinawa passed with a solemn ceremony. It took place at Peace Memorial Park in Mabuni, Itoman City, on the island of Okinawa. The site was where the Imperial Japanese Army (IJA) made its last stand. This is one of Japan's "four days" commemorating victims of the war. It is followed by the anniversaries of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima (August 6) and Nagasaki (August 9), and finally, August 15, the day the Pacific War ended. Emperor Emeritus Akihito has dedicated himself to making these occasions for the Japanese people to engage in special commemoration of the dead since he was Crown Prince. On this Okinawa Memorial Day, the Emperor and Empress, as well as other members of the Imperial Family, observed a moment of silence. All Japanese should also take this opportunity to offer their sincere condolences to those who lost their lives. US troops land on Okinawa's Aguni Island in June 1945. (Courtesy of US National Archives via Okinawa Prefectural Archives.) The Battle of Okinawa was the bloodiest of the Pacific War. It began on March 26, 1945, when United States forces landed on the Kerama Islands, about 40 kilometers west of Naha City. An overwhelming number of American soldiers landed on Okinawa Island itself on April 1. Dug-in Japanese forces met them, putting up desperate resistance. The fierce ground battle ended up lasting for roughly three months. For the defense of Okinawa Prefecture, the IJA committed its newly formed 120,000-man 32nd Army. More than 2,500 kamikaze ( tokoki ) planes, airborne forces, and a fleet with the battleship Yamato as its flagship set out from mainland Japan. Many Okinawan volunteers and civilians, including middle school students and the famous Himeyuri detachment of student nurses, also lost their lives during the intense fighting. General Mitsuru Ushijima, commander of the 32nd Army, committed ritual suicide by seppuku in his cave headquarters at Mabuni on June 23. His act brought an end to the organized fighting. Around 188,000 Japanese soldiers and more than 12,000 US service members died during the Battle of Okinawa. We must not forget their sacrifices as we enjoy our peaceful lives today. Emperor Naruhito, Empress Masako and Princess Aiko pay their respects at the Cornerstone of Peace in Peace Memorial Park, Itoman City, Okinawa Prefecture, on June 4. Ahead of Memorial Day, Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako traveled to Okinawa. On June 4, they visited the National Cemetery of the War Dead within Peace Memorial Park. And on June 5, they laid flowers at the memorial for the Tsushima Maru . A US submarine sank the ship while it was evacuating over 1,600 children and other civilians to mainland Japan. On both occasions, the imperial couple comforted bereaved family members. Residents of Okinawa Prefecture warmly welcomed the Emperor and Empress, who conveyed a profound awareness of Okinawa's history of hardship. Unfortunately, however, some residents of the prefecture have accepted distorted opinions about the Battle of Okinawa. For example, some local newspapers repeatedly reported that the greatest lesson of the Battle of Okinawa is that "the military did not protect local residents." They also regularly criticized the activities of the Japan Self-Defense Forces. Emperor Naruhito, Empress Masako, and Princess Aiko speak with war survivors and representatives during their visit to the Okinawa Prefectural Peace Memorial Museum. June 4 in Itoman City, Okinawa Prefecture. However, in reality, many Okinawans were also encouraged to survive by Japanese soldiers who helped them. And the current Self-Defense Forces are also essential for maintaining peace in Japan, including Okinawa. Meanwhile, China is intensifying its military pressure in the waters off Okinawa. This anniversary reminds us that, in addition to diplomacy, Japan absolutely must strengthen its defense capabilities and civil defense operations. (Read the editorial in Japanese .) Author: Editorial Board, The Sankei Shimbun
