Ban on military-style clothing does not apply to active-duty members, Yasukuni clarifies
The shrine said that it has seen an increase in visitors wearing military attire without any affiliation or qualification.
Yasukuni Shrine has clarified that its ban on military-style clothing does not apply to active-duty members. The Tokyo-based shrine issued a clarification on Wednesday following inquiries, including from The Japan Times, regarding its Aug. 7 notice asking visitors not to wear cosplay outfits or military attire and equipment. While the number of World War II veterans visiting Yasukuni in military uniforms has decreased, the shrine has noticed an increase in visitors wearing military attire without any affiliation or qualification.
The policy aims to maintain a peaceful worship environment for the public. It will not apply to Self-Defense Forces personnel, foreign military members, or those who must wear uniforms as part of their duties. The policy was not prompted by specific complaints or incidents and is expected to apply year-round. Visitors unaware of the policy will be informed, but the shrine will not forcibly remove them from the grounds if they arrive in prohibited clothing.
Yasukuni, which enshrines Japan's war dead, including those convicted as Class-A war criminals, has been a source of political controversy, facing criticism from China and South Korea, who view it as a symbol of Japan's militaristic past.
Written by urgent.news from Japan Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
