Crowds marched through the Shibuya district carrying anti-war placards, waving Japanese and Palestinian flags and chanting, "No war! No hate!"

Demonstrators argued that proposed constitutional changes and expanding military policies threatened Japan's post-war identity.

"Those who are currently turning a blind eye or are unaware of the situation, realise that our own lives are under threat and that we are facing a difficult situation," a protester said.

Another demonstrator urged the international community to oppose what he described as Japan's growing militarisation.

"Japan is turning into a nation that is rapidly expanding its military. This is the fault of Prime Minister Takaichi," he said.

A third protester criticised the prime minister's leadership.

"Takaichi's approach to politics is just terrible. I want her to govern in a way that truly brings happiness to everyone," the demonstrator said.

The protesters said revising Article 9 of Japan's Constitution, which renounces war, together with higher defence spending and expanded security powers, would weaken the country's long-standing pacifist principles.

Any amendment to Article 9 must receive the backing of at least two-thirds of members in both houses of Japan's parliament before it can be put to a national referendum.