A controversial Shinto shrine in Tokyo central to Japan’s memory of war dead and its regional strains.
The imperial house has seen renewed debate as a government move on succession and a clothing ban at a war shrine prompts protests and international concern ahead of a wartime anniversary.
Japan’s leaders face renewed regional scrutiny as Koizumi’s Yasukuni Shrine visit on the 81st anniversary sparks protests from China and South Korea, while Tokyo stresses a peaceful, postwar path.
Japan’s lawmakers are in Beijing to restore channels after Tokyo’s Taiwan remarks soured ties; discussions with Chinese officials run through Thursday as both sides seek to mend diplomatic and economic links.