Ancestor Rituals and Memory Politics in the Construction of Modern Japanese National Identity

Abstract

The present study attempts to examine the way in which memory politics, through rituals, takes place in Japan and affects East Asia’s international relations. The study focuses on the rituals performed at Yasukuni Shrine in honor of war spirits as a critical case for the connection between rituals, history and identity. The study adopts a qualitative research approach based on the review of the literature. In this regard, the study investigates how rituals are integrated in collective memory construction and how they affect both domestic identity and international relations. According to the results, Japan’s war commemoration rituals are not only cultural but also political tools used to reproduce specific interpretations of the past from the perspective of nationalism. Nevertheless, this perception is not shared by all states.  Neighbor states such as China and South Korea tend to see Japanese officials paying homage at the Yasukuni Shrine as an indication that Japan has yet to properly reflect on its wartime behavior. These activities create diplomatic problems and prove the importance of collective memory as an intangible influence in international politics. The current analysis reveals that culture and symbolism are important factors which are often considered internal affairs but may significantly impact regional peace and security in East Asia.