Former Japanese Prime Minister Tomiichi Murayama says Japanese officials should no longer visit the Yasukuni Shrine, which honors Class-A war criminals from World War Two. He's also called for more efforts to improve relations with China.

Murayama slammed Prime Minister Abe's attempt to revise the constitution as "ignoring the will of the Japanese people". Murayama's remarks came on Saturday after three female ministers paid visits to Yasukuni during its autumn festival. The visits came right after Abe's offering to the shrine on Friday.

"I really don't think the ministers should visit the Yasukuni Shrine. I've already made clear reflections on history in the 'Murayama Statement'. I hope the Abe administration could carry on the spirit of the 'Murayama Statement' and end visits to the the Yasukuni Shrine. Abe's attempt to change the consititution of peace is unforgivable as it goes against the principles of the constitution, and ignores the will of the Japanese people. Although the Cabinet has agreed to lift the prohibition on collective self-defense, it still needs the parliament's vote next year to finally put the decision into effect. I call for the Japanese people to take this period of time to voice their opposition," Murayama said.

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