Yasukuni Shrine, Tokyo

Yasukuni Shrine is a notable Shinto religious site in Tokyo's Chiyoda district, established by Emperor Meiji in June 1869. It serves as a memorial for individuals who have died for Japan, beginning with the Boshin War through various conflicts, including the First and Second Sino-Japanese Wars and extending to the First Indochina War. The shrine has been a point of debate due to its inclusion of war criminals among the 2.4 million commemorated souls.

The shrine records detailed information about those enshrined, including non-Japanese who died under Japan's cause during its imperial expansion. Besides the main Honden hall, the Chinreisha structure is dedicated to the memory of all World War II casualties, irrespective of their nationality. Despite its historical association with the divine status of the Japanese emperor, the site has faced contention, especially after Emperor Shōwa's disapproval of the enshrinement of war criminals, which led to the cessation of his visits post-1975. His heirs have maintained this distance.

Yasukuni Shrine is also known for its cultural events, especially seasonal festivals, and the symbolic Imperial Chrysanthemum emblem at its entrance. Tatebumi Yamaguchi has been the High Priest since November 2018, following Kunio Kobori. The shrine's festivals, particularly in spring and fall, feature processions with Mikoshi (portable shrines) to honor the deities and the ancestral spirits of Japan.

Why You Should Visit:
The museum is free and is particularly impressive. Its displays cover Japan's military history from the country's beginnings, including the Samurai.
Bilingual signs explain each display, and you might dispute a few assertions here and there, but go to learn, not to find fault.

Tip:
For the shrine, there is no cost to visit, either, but better be in a quiet manner. The areas surrounding are good to explore as well.