Takaichi May Skip Yasukuni Visit Over Diplomatic Concerns
Bastillepost · 2 SOURCESabout 1 hour ago2 MIN
Summary
Japanese media reported on August 13 that Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is planning not to visit Yasukuni Shrine on Saturday, the anniversary of Japan’s World War II surrender.
The reports said she appears to be weighing the diplomatic fallout, including possible damage to improving Japan-South Korea ties, trilateral cooperation among Japan, the United States and South Korea, and relations with China.
One report also said Takaichi wants to focus on recovery and reconstruction work after the Kumamoto earthquake rather than make the shrine visit.
Separately, Yasukuni Shrine announced a ban on visitors entering in cosplay outfits or military uniforms worn by non-military personnel.
Key Points
- Kyodo News, cited by Japanese media, said Takaichi plans to skip a Saturday visit marking Japan’s defeat and surrender in World War II.
- Before becoming prime minister, Takaichi had repeatedly visited Yasukuni during spring and autumn festivals and around the surrender anniversary.
- Since taking office as prime minister in October last year, she has not visited the shrine again, according to Japanese media reports.
- Reports said a visit could seriously strain improving Japan-South Korea ties and complicate hoped-for talks with President Xi Jinping at November’s APEC meeting in China.
- Yasukuni Shrine posted an online notice on Wednesday banning cosplay clothing and military uniforms, including imitations that had drawn criticism from other visitors and foreigners.
Why It Matters
For Hong Kong readers, the decision is a reminder that historical memory in Northeast Asia can quickly affect regional diplomacy and summit agendas. A move to avoid a Yasukuni visit may help preserve room for Japan’s upcoming contacts with South Korea and China, which matters for the wider political climate in Asia.