At the easternmost edge of Kyoto's Arashiyama Park stands a granite monument erected in 1968. It bears the inscription: "Never again shall Japan and China go to war".
Over the decades, its wording has sparked debate. Some argue it should more precisely read: "Japan should never invade again." Yet the monument's core message remains clear: lasting peace requires honest reflection on past conflicts and the forces that drove them.
The 1945 victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression united the entire Chinese nation, including residents of Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan. Today, this legacy endures as a source of pride for Chinese people worldwide.
As we pause on Victory Day to remember this chapter of history, the Kyoto monument offers a timeless reminder: opposing militarism starts with understanding the roots of war and pledging to never repeat its darkest lessons.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
