The state funeral of Shinzo Abe, who was assassinated in July while campaigning, was held Tuesday under blue skies and tight security.
Abe’s divisive legacy was manifest on the streets of Tokyo, in displays of both public mourning and protest. At points, the marches of anti-state funeral protesters passed alongside the long line of mourners who were queuing to pay their respects near the iconic Nippon Budokan arena.
The official ceremony, attended by thousands, was a mix of state-sanctioned pomp and personal sorrow. Abe’s widow, Akie, arrived at the Budokan carrying his cremation urn, which was placed by an honor guard on the massive flower-covered altar.
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