Main Attractions

Tokyo, Yasukuni Shrine

The Yasukuni Shrine is north of the Imperial Palace . It was built in remembrance of the Japanese soldiers that died in World War II and represents the home of their souls on Earth; soldiers died fighting, knowing that they would rest at Yasukuni in honour at the after-life.

Political controversy surrounds the shrine, with cabinet ministers receiving criticism for attending the ceremonies held at Yasukuni every year at the anniversary of Japan's war defeat.

The entrance to the shrine is guarded by an enormous steel gate, leading to a long lane shadowed by cherry and gingko trees. An austere building nearby serves as the Worship Hall. Various war memorabilia are displayed at the Yushukan museum, giving insight to the tactics employed by the Japanese military during the war.

Website: http://www.yasukuni.or.jp

Transport: Subway to Kudanshita Station

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