Japan is currently experiencing its largest anti-war protests in decades. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has initiated major changes to the country's defence policy since October 2025.
These policy shifts include lifting restrictions on arms exports and expanding Japan's military role abroad. The government justifies these actions as necessary for security in a tense region. Many Japanese citizens are alarmed by these developments, fearing the nation is becoming war-capable.
This public opposition highlights a deep societal debate about Japan's national identity. The cultural emphasis on social harmony means large-scale protests signal significant public discontent. Article 9 of Japan's post-World War Two constitution prohibits maintaining armed forces and renounces war.
Akari Maezono, a demonstrator in her 30s, expressed her anger at these changes. She stated, “I'm angry that these changes could be made without properly listening to us, the public.” Another older demonstrator insisted, “The Japanese constitution, Article 9 in particular, must be protected at all costs.”
Prime Minister Takaichi argues the constitutional framework no longer reflects current realities. Japan is located close to an assertive China, an unpredictable North Korea, and nearby Russia. The United States, a key ally, has also encouraged Tokyo to play a more active security role. Previous conservative leaders, including former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, also advocated for changes to Article 9. Abe's administration passed a security bill in 2015 to expand the role of Japan's self-defence forces. This allowed limited self-defence, including supporting allies under attack.
On April 21, the government made a significant move by lifting its long-standing ban on exporting lethal weapons. This decision strongly resonated with the Japanese public. The government argued that allies must support each other in an increasingly severe security environment. The 1947 constitution's pacifist clause was enacted after the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, which killed approximately 200,000 people by the end of 1945. Survivors of these bombings continue to advocate for the abolition of nuclear arms.
Jiro Hamasumi, a hibakusha (bomb-affected person), stated, “No more war, no more hibakusha.” He spoke at the 2026 review conference of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty. Many fear Japan could once again be drawn into conflict. Protests have spread beyond Tokyo to cities like Osaka, Kyoto, and Fukuoka. Younger Japanese, particularly those in their twenties and thirties, are actively participating and engaging on social media platforms like X to organise these demonstrations.
Opinion across Japan remains divided, despite the growing protests. Recent polls offer mixed results. Some polls indicate increasing support for a stronger military to adapt to the current global environment. Other polls show clear resistance to such changes. The ongoing debate will likely continue to shape public discourse and government policy.