Thousands of anti-war activists gathered in Tokyo on Thursday night to protest what they described as dangerous policies under Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, particularly efforts to revise Japan’s pacifist Constitution and expand military capabilities.
Protesters assembled outside the Second Members’ Office Building of the House of Representatives, holding placards reading “No War” and “Oppose Constitutional Revision.” Demonstrators called for the defense of Japan’s postwar pacifist framework and warned against moves that could draw the country into future conflicts.
Japan’s Constitution, which took effect in 1947, is widely known for its pacifist character, especially Article 9, which renounces war and the use of force in settling international disputes. However, Takaichi and other right-wing politicians have long sought to amend the provision, with her recent statements reaffirming commitment to constitutional revision raising alarm among the public.
The protests also come amid heightened unease following controversial remarks by Donald Trump, who recently made a “Pearl Harbor joke” that drew criticism and concern in Japan. Observers say the comment has deepened anxieties about rising militarism and the direction of US-Japan relations, particularly as tensions escalate across the region.
Natsuki Mitomi, one of the protesters, stressed the importance of Article 9 in maintaining peace. “It has played an important role in keeping Japan out of war,” he said. “It will remain essential for Japan in the future, and we cannot allow it to be taken away.”
Public concern has also intensified over the administration’s moves to strengthen military capabilities. The Ministry of Defense recently transported missile launchers and related equipment for the upgraded Type 12 surface-to-ship missile to a Ground Self-Defense Force base in Kumamoto Prefecture without prior public explanation, with full deployment expected by March 31.
Another protester, identified as Ryoko, expressed alarm over the development, noting that Kumamoto is her relatives’ hometown. “It is very irresponsible for the government to deploy missiles without listening to residents or holding explanatory meetings,” she said.
A protester surnamed Misawa also criticized the move, saying it was wrong to push forward with policies that could affect public safety without transparency or public consultation, underscoring growing opposition to Japan’s remilitarization.
