Speculation over one question that could greatly affect Japan's ties with Asian neighbors has been circulating in Nagatacho, Japan's political epicenter.
At stake is whether Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi will visit Yasukuni Shrine on Aug. 15, the 60th anniversary of Japan's surrender in World War II.
As the most memorable day for war veterans and their families approaches, lawmakers both in favor of and against a visit by Koizumi have stepped up their rhetoric.