Uyoku
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Uyoku (右翼, lit. "right wing") are Japanese ultra-nationalist right-wing groups. They have a strong influence upon domestic politics in Japan, and can be seen driving around major cities in black vans and trucks outfitted with loudspeakers. The center of the Uyoku movement is Yasukuni Shrine in central Tokyo, which was the main war shrine during World War II.
History
Uyoku are said to have grown out of groups of unemployed samurai during the Meiji period when the national government ended the samurai system, especially in Western Japan (far from the reach of the central government).
Ties to other groups
Uyoku are often purported to have ties to both Japanese yakuza and some right-wing politicians in the ruling Liberal Democratic Party. For example, Tokyo mayor, Ishihara Shintaro, has been linked to right-wing groups such as the "Seiryukai" ('Blue Dragon Society'). Foreigners often note the ease with which the Uyoku operate as a sign of police collusion or sympathy. Uyoku do seem more able to gain permission for disruptive protests than other activist groups. Their signature black vans are a fixture at the Shibuya train station, a popular youth hangout.
External links
- [Video Footage:] Uyoku vans in action
See also
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