Yasukuni Review: Story, Cast, Rating & Final Verdict
Last updated: May 15, 2026
Movie Overview: Yasukuni
| Movie | Yasukuni |
| Release Year | 2008 |
| Director | Li Ying |
| Genre | Documentary |
| Runtime | 123 minutes (2h 3m) |
| Language | JA |
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Yasukuni (2008) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE with a verified audience rating of 6.0/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Documentary.
Cast & Character Study
The performances in Yasukuni are led by Naoharu Kariya .
movieMx Verdict: Is it Worth Your Time?
What Works in the Movie
While Yasukuni does not fully realize its potential, it still contains moments that may appeal to viewers who enjoy Documentary films.
- Interesting concept or premise
- Some entertaining scenes
- Supporting cast delivers occasional highlights
What Doesn't Work
Despite its strengths, Yasukuni has a few issues that may affect the overall viewing experience, particularly in terms of pacing and narrative consistency.
- Uneven pacing in certain parts of the film
- Some predictable plot developments
- May not appeal to audiences outside the Documentary fanbase
Story & Plot Summary: Yasukuni
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 2008, Yasukuni is a Documentary film directed by Li Ying, written by Li Ying. The narrative presents a compelling narrative that engages viewers from start to finish. It provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Naoharu Kariya as Himself.
Ending Explained: Yasukuni
Yasukuni Ending Explained: The film looks at the history of Yasukuni Shrine in Chiyoda, Tokyo, where more than 2 million of Japan's war dead are enshrined. Directed by Li Ying, this 2008 documentary film stars Naoharu Kariya (Himself), alongside Junichiro Koizumi as Himself. With a 6/10 rating, the ending has divided audiences.
What Happens at the End of Yasukuni?
The film looks at the history of Yasukuni Shrine in Chiyoda, Tokyo, where more than 2 million of Japan's war dead are enshrined. More than 1,000 of them are war criminals convicted at the 1946–48 Tokyo tribunal, including 14 Class-A war criminals, Hideki Tōjō among them. The film shows not only the widely reported political incidents associated with the shrine, but also takes an in-depth look at the shrine's sword-making tradition, the Yasukuni sword being the film's underlying motif.
Li Ying's narrative builds toward a resolution centered on Naoharu Kariya (Himself)'s journey. More than 1,000 of them are war criminals convicted at the 1946–48 Tokyo tribunal, including 14 Class-A war criminals, Hideki Tōjō among them.
How Does Naoharu Kariya (Himself)'s Story End?
- Naoharu Kariya: Naoharu Kariya's storyline wraps up in the final act, though some viewers have found the resolution more ambiguous than expected.
- Junichiro Koizumi (Himself): Junichiro Koizumi's role in the climax proves pivotal to how the central conflict resolves.
What Does the Ending of Yasukuni Mean?
Yasukuni's ending attempts to resolve the major plot threads, though some narrative elements involving Naoharu Kariya may feel rushed. Li Ying's final act has been both praised for its ambition and criticized for its execution.
Yasukuni Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
Is Yasukuni Based on a True Story?
No, Yasukuni is a work of fiction. While the documentary film directed by Li Ying and starring Naoharu Kariya may incorporate realistic themes, the characters and plot are original creations.
Who Should Watch Yasukuni?
Age Advisory: Rated Not Rated.
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Documentaries films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of Naoharu Kariya or the director
- Want solid genre entertainment
Where to Watch Yasukuni Online?
Streaming Hub📺 Stream on
WatchaYasukuni Parents Guide & Age Rating
2008 AdvisoryWondering about Yasukuni age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Yasukuni (2008) is 123 minutes (2h 3m). Directed by Li Ying, the film runs for 123 minutes in its complete theatrical version.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 6.0/10, and global performance metrics, Yasukuni is classified as a ABOVE AVERAGE. It remains an essential part of the 2008 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Yasukuni worth watching?
Yasukuni is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Documentary movies. It has a verified rating of 6/10 and stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE in our box office analysis.
Where can I find Yasukuni parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Yasukuni identifies it as Not Rated. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the runtime of Yasukuni (2008)?
The runtime of Yasukuni (2008) is 123 minutes (approximately 2h 3m).
movieMx Verified
This review has been verified for accuracy and editorial quality by our senior cinematic analysts.
This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.