Hundreds of Japanese citizens rallied in Tokyo on Friday to oppose officials visiting the notorious Yasukuni Shrine, which honors 14 convicted Class-A Japanese war criminals from World War II and recognized as a symbol of the Japanese militarists responsible for the war of aggression. Protesters held banners reading "Oppose Yasukuni Shrine" and "Oppose War," while chanting slogans as they marched through the streets. The demonstrators called on the Japanese government to squarely face up to the wartime aggression and take responsibility, firmly opposing visits to the shrine by cabinet members and lawmakers. During the annual memorial ceremony for the war dead, Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba expressed "remorse" for Japan's actions during World War II on Friday, the 80th anniversary of the country's unconditional surrender. However, critics noted that his remarks did not address Japan's responsibility for its aggression against Asian nations. "In his speech, Prime Minister Ishiba specifically mentioned the word 'reflection.' But I think this is just a starting point, not an endpoint. After all, it has been 80 years since the war was over, and Japan should not perceive it as a victim to the question of 'why did this war happen?' It must pursue the accountability of the perpetrator for its actions fundamentally, as a nation and as Japanese citizens. Otherwise, this issue cannot be truly settled," said a protester. Although Ishiba did not personally visit the Yasukuni Shrine, several politicians from the ruling Liberal Democratic Party did, prompting further criticisms from protesters. "[The Yasukuni Shrine] is a symbol of nationalism and militarism. Politicians’ visits and paying respects there imply a return to war again, right? Such actions, I think, absolutely cannot be allowed," another protester said. The Yasukuni Shrine has long been a source of diplomatic friction between Japan and its neighbors. Also on Friday, similar gatherings and protests were held across Japan, including in Kanagawa and Osaka Prefectures, with participants calling for reflection on the country’s history of aggression and commitment to peace. SHOTLIST: Tokyo, Japan - Aug 15, 2025 1. Various of protesters marching through street, chanting slogans; 2. Protesters on running vehicle, police officers, banner reading "Oppose Yasukuni Shrine"; 3. SOUNDBITE (Japanese) Protester (name not given): "In his speech, Prime Minister Ishiba specifically mentioned the word 'reflection.' But I think this is just a starting point, not an endpoint. After all, it has been 80 years since the war was over, and Japan should not perceive it as a victim to the question of 'why did this war happen?' It must pursue the accountability of the perpetrator for its actions fundamentally, as a nation and as Japanese citizens. Otherwise, this issue cannot be truly settled."; 4. Various of protesters marching through street, holding banners; 5. SOUNDBITE (Japanese) Protester (name not given)(ending with shot 6): "[The Yasukuni Shrine] is a symbol of nationalism and militarism. Politicians’ visits and paying respects there imply a return to war again, right? Such actions, I think, absolutely cannot be allowed."; 6. Protester holding plaque on "Oppose Yasukuni Shrine"; 7. Protesters marching through street, chanting slogans. [Restrictions: No access Chinese mainland]