Japan’s defense minister recently visited the Yasukuni Shrine in Tokyo. This place is very famous, but it is also very controversial.

To many, the shrine honors people who died for Japan in past wars. But it also honors some leaders who were convicted of terrible war crimes. Because of this, many countries—especially China and South Korea—see visits to the shrine as a sign that Japan is not sorry for its actions during World War II.

Here is what is happening:

* **The Defense Minister’s Visit:** Japan’s defense minister went to the shrine recently. This move was not a surprise to many, but it still upset Japan's neighbors.
* **China’s Reaction:** The Chinese government officially protested the visit. They have long complained that paying respect at this shrine hurts the feelings of people who suffered during the war.
* **A Mixed Bag:** While some politicians visited, others stayed away. For example, Sanae Takaichi, a high-ranking politician, did not visit the shrine during the 81st anniversary of Japan’s surrender in World War II.

The Yasukuni Shrine remains a big point of argument. Supporters say it is just a place to remember the dead. Critics say it glorifies a dark history. As long as top Japanese leaders keep visiting, it will likely continue to cause tension between Japan and the rest of the world.

Source: aljazeera.com