Why do Japanese ministers continue to visit the controversial Yasukuni Shrine?

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Japanese Ministers Continue Visits to Yasukuni Shrine Due to Belief in Honoring Sacrifice and Seeking Understanding from Neighbors

Japanese ministers and former prime minister Shinzo Abe continued their visits to the controversial Yasukuni Shrine on the anniversary of the end of World War Two, citing a natural inclination to pay respects to those who sacrificed their lives for the nation. This practice, however, remains a significant point of contention with neighboring countries, particularly China and the Koreas, due to the shrine's enshrinement of individuals convicted as war criminals. While Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga himself did not visit, he sent a ritual offering, underscoring the complex relationship between official remembrance and historical sensitivities.
Respect for Sacrifice is Considered Natural

Education Minister Koichi Hagiuda articulated a common sentiment among those who visit the shrine, stating that it is "natural to pay respects to those who sacrificed themselves for their country." This perspective frames the visits as a matter of national gratitude and remembrance for the war dead, irrespective of their wartime actions or convictions. Former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, also present at the shrine on Sunday, similarly told reporters that he had paid his respects to the souls of those who died in war.
Hope for Neighboring Countries' Understanding

In addition to honoring the war dead, ministers visiting the Yasukuni Shrine also express a desire for their neighbors to understand their actions. Hagiuda specifically mentioned hoping for "understanding from Japan's neighbours" regarding the practice of paying respects at the shrine. This suggests an awareness of the international implications of these visits, while still asserting the domestic rationale behind them.
Yasukuni Shrine's Contentious Status

The Yasukuni Shrine is a focal point of historical tension due to its enshrinement of Japan's war dead, which includes fourteen World War Two leaders found guilty as "Class A" war criminals. This aspect of the shrine's commemoration deeply offends China and the Koreas, who harbor bitter memories of Japanese aggression and occupation during the first half of the 20th century. For instance, South Korea still struggles with the legacy of Japan's colonial rule from 1910 to 1945, while China remembers Japan's invasions and occupation from 1931 to 1945.
Past Visits Have Sparked International Outrage

The practice of visiting Yasukuni has a history of causing significant diplomatic friction. Notably, Shinzo Abe's visit to the shrine in his capacity as prime minister in 2013 led to widespread condemnation from Beijing and Seoul, and even an expression of "disappointment" from the United States. While Abe did not repeat such a visit as prime minister, he continued to send ritual offerings and visited again on Sunday as a member of parliament.

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Why do Japanese ministers continue to visit the controversial Yasukuni Shrine?

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