China has called on Japan to reflect on its history, after the country's prime minister Shinzo Abe sent a ritual offering to the controversial Yasukuni Shrine during an annual autumn festival.

"The shrine honors a number of Class-A criminals who are directly responsible for the world war invasions. We resolutely oppose this wrong move by a Japanese government dignitary," said Hua Chunying, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman.

"We also urge Japan to stick to the truth and deeply reflect on the history of its invasion, to draw a line under its militarism and, through practical actions, gain the trust of its Asian neighbours and the international community."