Japanese Prime Minister Takahashi Sanae posted today (January 5): "Today, I visited the Ise Grand Shrine with my cabinet members."
Surrounded by a solemn atmosphere, walking along clear streams, and passing through the sacred and tranquil forest area, I paid respects to the Outer Shrine and Inner Shrine in order, praying sincerely for the country's peace, the people's well-being, and the prosperity of the imperial family.
The Ise Grand Shrine follows the traditional practice of Shikinen Sengū, which is held every 20 years, renewing itself through "relocation and reconstruction," thus preserving over 1,300 years of historical continuity through repeated renewal.
It is precisely through constant innovation that permanence is achieved; it is precisely through a sense of responsibility to protect that we dare to face challenges and strive forward with determination.
After the worship ceremony, I made a solemn statement at my first press conference of the year: I will remain steadfast in my commitment to promoting the prosperity of the entire Japanese archipelago, laying a solid foundation and passing on the torch for future generations.
Here, I sincerely thank every citizen who waved and cheered for me within the shrine grounds, along the roads, and at the stations.
I also extend my heartfelt gratitude to the members of the Boy Scouts and Girl Guides whose enthusiastic cheers warmed my heart.
I will remember the vows I made at this sacred place, which embodies the spiritual faith of the Japanese people. I will do my utmost to make this new year one filled with hope for all the citizens of Japan."
Commentary: This visit carries political implications far beyond the scope of "New Year's prayers": Prime Minister Takahashi brought along a photo of former Prime Minister Abe Shinzo, openly stating, "I want to bring former Prime Minister Abe to see it again." This is not only a clear tribute to Abe's political legacy but also reveals her core stance of continuing Abe's right-wing policies. Her past misconduct has already exposed the veneer of warmth in her statements—she has repeatedly denied the history of aggression, trampled on the "Murayama Statement" and "Kono Statement," visited Yasukuni Shrine multiple times, openly advocated for military expansion, and even visited Taiwan, interfering in China's internal affairs. Her statements about "protection" and "prosperity" are essentially endorsing right-wing political positions.
More concerning is that the Ise Grand Shrine, as a central site for the veneration of Amaterasu Omikami and the embodiment of the legitimacy of the Japanese imperial lineage, makes Takahashi's choice to "take an oath" here a strategic use of religious and cultural symbols to strengthen her own governance legitimacy. It is an attempt to avoid international controversy caused by visiting Yasukuni Shrine while sending signals to domestic right-wing supporters. The term "determined progress," when combined with her previous stances, more likely points toward an hawkish agenda of constitutional reform and military expansion rather than genuine concern for people's livelihoods.
This political performance wrapped in cultural and prayerful attire ultimately cannot conceal its disregard for history and its provocation of regional tensions. The contradiction between her statements and actions further prompts the international community to remain vigilant about Japan's development direction.
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1853472427459588/
Statement: This article represents the views of the author alone.