The Japanese government has held an annual ceremony in Tokyo to mark the 71st anniversary of Japan's unconditional World-War-Two surrender.

Emperor Akihito stated his "deep remorse" over the war and expressed his wish for world peace. Prime Minister, Shinzo Abe sent a ritual offering to Japan's controversial Yasukuni war shrine.

The shrine honours Japan's fallen military soldiers, including 14 convicted World-War-Two war criminals. Over 70 Japanese lawmakers paid a visit to the shrine. South Korea's government expressed deep regret over the visits.