The incident, which took place on November 12, 2024, around 11:15 a.m. when Hayes reportedly used his fingernails to carve five letters — reportedly he admitted that he “wrote his family members’ names.” — into one of the shrine’s iconic wooden pillars.
Hayes, arrived in Japan on Monday for a sightseeing trip with his family. Security footage from the area led investigators to quickly identify Hayes, who was subsequently arrested at his Tokyo hotel on Wednesday afternoon.
The Meiji Shrine, a revered cultural and spiritual landmark, is visited by millions of tourists annually. The act has sparked backlash, with many condemning the defacement as disrespectful to Japan’s cultural heritage.
Reminder for Tourists:
When visiting sacred or historical landmarks, it is crucial to respect the cultural significance and preservation of these sites. Acts of defacement not only lead to legal consequences but also harm the legacy these landmarks hold for future generations.
