American tourist arrested in Japan for allegedly defacing Tokyo shrine gate

An American tourist in Japan has been detained for allegedly vandalizing a torii gate at a shrine in Tokyo. The 65-year-old suspect was arrested on suspicion of property damage after reportedly defacing a shrine gate pillar. It is claimed that the suspect carved letters, thought to be his family name, into the pillar with his fingernails. Japanese authorities identified him through security footage and have commenced an investigation.

The Meiji Shrine, located next to Yoyogi Park in Tokyo, features entrances known for their large wooden gates topped with unique curved beams. Initially constructed in 1920 to honor Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, the shrine was rebuilt in the 1950s following its destruction during World War II.

The suspect, visiting with family, faces potential penalties of up to three years in jail or a fine for the alleged act. This incident adds to recent occurrences involving tourists in Japan amidst a surge in visitors. Cases this year include an Austrian national's arrest for inappropriate behavior at a shrine and a Canadian teenager questioned for allegedly inscribing a name at a historic temple in Nara.