In Sino-Japanese politics, the Yasukuni shrine has always been in the limelight, with the previous Japanese PM Junichiro Koizumi bringing Sino-Japanese relations to its lowest point by just paying a visit to this shrine. PM Shinzo Abe promised that he was not going to visit the shrine during this year's anniversary to the end of World War II to appease angry Chinese. Why is it so important? Resting peacefully here are Japanese war heroes dating all the way back to the warring periods and Meiji Revolution, which of course includes their World War II heroes. However, if you carefully go through the rows of military men, you might come by certain all-to-familiar names. Yes, they're the Class A War Criminals. 15 of them in all amongst the other war-deads. Understand a little bit more now?
Whatever it is, many Japanese have not set foot in this temple, only vaguely knowing its existence. As a foreigner, it was kind of an eye-opener, no special aura or oppressive feelings, just a nice walk into the past.
The metro exit
The entrance
Long stretch to walk in.
Even sacred shrines have little food stalls and baskers around
Main entrance to the shrine
Buy and plant trees for remembrance
The shrine set in the backdrop of skyscraper Tokyo
Inner Shrine
Family gathering to pray. The inner shrine is always closed to public.
Nationalistic man thinks he's still living in the 40s, waving the imperial flag and singing patriotic songs.
No camera? Buy one from the vending machines!
The museum where you can find out more about this shrine.
Slack.
