File photo of Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Hong Lei [Photo: fmprc.gov.cn]

Chinese authorities have again called on Japan to adhere to a path of peaceful development following events which have taken place in Japan connected to that country's military.

Massive protests took place in Tokyo on Tuesday, the annual Constitution Memorial Day, to protest the Japanese government's move to amend the constitution to allow the Japanese military to fight overseas.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Hong Lei.

"Due to historical reasons, Japan's Asian neighbors have been watching its politics closely. China hopes Japan will learn from history, recognize the tides of our times and listen to those who advocate peace. We hope Japan will adhere to a path of peaceful development, and play a constructive role in our regional stability. "

An estimated 50-thousand people took part in a rally in Tokyo on Tuesday to denounce the Japanese government's move to change the constitution, which was drafted by the United States after the end of World War II.

Meanwhile, the Chinese side has also used the opportunity to question the Japanese government's motives involving itself in the discussions around the South China Sea.

"What has Japan's involvement in the South China Sea done? Nothing besides reminding us again its invasion of the Chinese islands in the region during WWII, nothing besides revealing its current ulterior motives about the South China Sea. We advise Japan to stop getting involved in the area."

Both Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and Japan's Foreign Minister have waded into the territorial debate in the South China Sea, with both expressing concern about the so-called militarization in the area.

This has drawn a strong rebuke from the Chinese side, as Japan has no territorial claims in the South China Sea.