The spirits of the war dead are venerated in Japan primarily at Yasukuni Shrine and similar sites, where the souls of those who died in service to the nation are enshrined as kami. Traditionally these spirits have been honored for their sacrifice and courage, and by extension are sometimes invoked in contexts of victory, perseverance, and competitive struggle, including sports. Devotion to these spirits remains a subject of considerable historical and political sensitivity, particularly in relation to Japan's modern military history.