Taiwanese actress Tsai Yi-chen arrested in Japan for temple vandalism

Taiwanese actress Tsai Yi-chen, known as ‘Wu Xiong’, was arrested at Kansai International Airport after re-entering Japan. She is suspected of violating the Cultural Properties Protection Law by pouring liquid, identified as glycerin, onto the ‘Buddha’s Footprint’, a national treasure located at Yakushiji Temple in Nara.

Tsai allegedly committed the act in April, leaving marks on the 1,200-year-old monument. During interrogation, she reportedly stated that she pours oil on things that move her as a form of prayer and admitted to having performed similar actions at other locations in Japan.

The incident has drawn significant criticism in both Japan and Taiwan. Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that its Osaka office is monitoring the situation and providing necessary assistance. Tsai’s manager issued an apology, noting that they are currently unable to contact the actress directly and are working through family and local legal counsel.