Yasukuni Shrine: A Tribute to Japan's Fallen Heroes

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Overview

Located in the heart of Tokyo, Yasukuni Shrine serves as a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made by soldiers throughout Japan's history. Originally established in Tokyo in 1869 under Emperor Meiji's directive, this revered site honors approximately 2.5 million fallen individuals. The shrine is particularly notable for commemorating heroes from pivotal conflicts, including the Meiji Restoration, the Boshin War, and both World Wars. Visitors can appreciate the beauty of the cherry trees that surround the shrine, symbolizing the arrival of spring. Avid learners can also explore the adjacent Yushukan War Museum, which showcases artifacts and historical documentation of Japan's military past from a conservative perspective. Yasukuni Shrine is a meaningful destination for those seeking to dig deeper into Japan's historical narrative and pay their respects to the lives lost in battle.

Photo of Yasukuni Shrine
Photo of Yasukuni Shrine
Photo of Yasukuni Shrine
Photo of Yasukuni Shrine
Opening hours
  • Sunday 06:00 - 18:00
  • Monday 06:00 - 18:00
  • Tuesday 06:00 - 18:00
  • Wednesday 06:00 - 18:00
  • Thursday 06:00 - 18:00
  • Friday 06:00 - 18:00
  • Saturday 06:00 - 18:00

Open 24/7

Contact Info
  • Address3-chōme-1-1 Kudankita, Chiyoda City, Tokyo 102-0073, Japan
  • Phone+81 3-3261-8326

Reviews

Maxim Ivanov
Russia
5
Established by Emperor Meiji in June 1869, this shrine honors those who sacrificed their lives for Japan. It holds the names of nearly 2.5 million individuals, including around one thousand noted war criminals, with 12 facing class A charges. Due to this, the last two emperors refrained from visiting it. Additionally, there's a military museum located next to the shrine.
Margaux Duval
France
5
The shrine is stunning and pays respect to all who perished in battles for Japan since the Meiji Era. It features the shrine itself, the Yushukan museum honoring kami, an archive, a lovely garden, and several monuments. The site is significant and attracts many visitors during the day, with the early morning being the best time to visit.
Haruka Tanaka
Japan
4
The temple complex is expansive and beautifully designed, featuring a museum about Japanese history, various restaurants, and stalls. It's truly impressive and a must-visit.
Rajesh Kapoor
India
5
This large temple offers parking, vending machines, a museum, food stalls, and hosts numerous festivals and ceremonies frequently. It's an ideal location to visit, with pleasant and lively surroundings featuring many Ginkgo trees to provide shade in the summer and stunning views during winter and autumn. A place you should never overlook.
Aiko Yamamoto
Japan
5
This place is fantastic for a visit; it includes shrines, a museum, rest areas, and shops. It’s especially perfect to see during the Sakura season.