Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako honor 80th year since Japan’s surrender
Somber ceremony at Nippon Budokan
Both monarchs bowed in a heartfelt speech amid the nation’s flag half‑mast outside the arena.
Prince Naruhito declared a “deep and renewed sense of sorrow,” stressing that war’s devastation must never recur.
Empress Masako echoed the vow, hoping that the memories of conflict will guide future generations.
Controversial visit to Yasukuni Shrine
Yasukuni, a shrine that honors 2.5 million fallen troops, also enshrines convicted war criminals.
Government officials’ pilgrimages have inflamed resentment from China, South Korea, and neighboring nations that endured Japanese atrocities.
Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba addressed the tribute, pledging to “preserve painful memories of war… and pursue lasting peace.”
Heat‑wave crowd reflects on history
Over 30 °C outside Yasukuni generated a sea of umbrellas as visitors searched shelter from the sun.
At least two attendees felt unwell, prompting emergency assistance.
Takashi Eguchi, a Tokyo graphic designer, visited to contemplate Japan’s past mistakes, noting that wars threaten many regions today.
Harada, wearing an imperial army uniform, sought to honor veterans, stating “the legacy of war volunteers will survive, but we must see all sides.”
Key figures in attendance
Shinjiro Koizumi, Agriculture Minister and potential future prime minister, visited early mornings as part of an annual August 15 tradition.
Political rival Sanae Takaichi, leader of the nationalist segment of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, was present.
Members of the “Japanese First” Sanseito party, noted for their anti‑globalist stance, also attended.
Future engagements
Next month, Emperor Naruhito, Empress Masako, and Princess Aiko are slated to visit Nagasaki to meet atomic‑bomb survivors and honor war dead – the first such trip since Naruhito’s accession in 2019.
