Tensions between Japan and its neighbours over historical issues have flared at the UN Security Council, with strong words from top envoys.

Chinese Ambassador Liu Jieyi said the Japanese prime minister's recent visit to the controversial Yasukuni shrine had "closed the door to dialogue".

South Korea's envoy, meanwhile, accused Japan of having a "distorted view" of history.

Japan said raising these issues at the UN did not help to reduce tensions.

The exchanges took place on Wednesday at a UN Security Council open debate on lessons to be learnt from war....