Yasukuni Shrine

Yasukuni Shrine is a Shinto shrine in Tokyo that honors Japan's war dead. It was founded in June 1869 by Emperor Meiji to commemorate those who died in service of Japan, from the Boshin War (1868–1869) through World War II and other conflicts. Over 2.5 million individuals, including soldiers and civilians who died in wars from the Meiji Restoration to the end of World War II are enshrined.

Among those honored are Class A war criminals from World War II, including individuals convicted by the Tokyo War Crimes Tribunal. Visits by Japanese politicians often provoke strong reactions from countries like China and South Korea, who view the shrine as a symbol of Japan's militaristic past.