Japan is on the verge of a historic political moment. Sanae Takaichi, a 64-year-old conservative lawmaker, has been elected leader of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), putting her on course to become Japan’s first female prime minister. This milestone is a monumental step not only for gender equality in Japanese politics but also for the future direction of the country’s policies, both domestic and international.
While she has not yet officially assumed the office—her confirmation is expected to take place during a parliamentary vote on October 15, 2025—her victory in the LDP leadership election on October 4, 2025, has positioned her as the next leader of Japan. As the first woman to take the helm of the LDP, Takaichi’s path to power signals potential seismic shifts in the country’s political landscape. But the bigger question remains: What kind of leader will Takaichi be, and what direction will she take Japan in?
A Path to Power: Takaichi’s Rise in the LDP
Sanae Takaichi won a critical leadership vote within the LDP on October 4, 2025, after two rounds of voting. Her win came after a tough contest with Shinjiro Koizumi, a younger, moderate figure within the LDP. Takaichi, with her hard-right views, managed to secure the leadership in a party that had recently been shaken by losses in both houses of Japan's Diet and a general sense of political stagnation under the leadership of outgoing Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba.
Despite being 64 years old, Takaichi's victory has energized many conservatives within the party. Her leadership victory also comes at a time when Japan is struggling with economic issues, including rising inflation and stagnant growth, which have made the electorate more receptive to new ideas—especially those offered by the opposition.
A Nationalist Vision for Japan
Takaichi’s political ideology is firmly rooted in nationalism, and her positions are likely to shake things up both domestically and internationally. Known for her strong conservative stances, she has long advocated for a revision of Japan’s pacifist postwar constitution, a proposal that would allow Japan to more actively engage in military activities and defense partnerships abroad.
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Economic Policy: Takaichi’s vision for Japan’s economic future includes aggressive fiscal stimulus, similar to the “Abenomics” strategy pioneered by former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. She believes that Japan’s economy can be revitalized through increased public spending and loose monetary policies. However, this could raise concerns about Japan’s already substantial national debt.
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Nationalism and Defense: Perhaps the most striking aspect of Takaichi’s platform is her nationalist rhetoric. She is a regular visitor to the Yasukuni Shrine, which honors Japan’s war dead and is controversial in neighboring countries like China and South Korea. Additionally, Takaichi has suggested forming a closer security alliance with Taiwan, a move that would likely further strain relations with China, which claims Taiwan as part of its territory.
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Foreign Policy: Takaichi’s stance on foreign policy has been marked by her desire to strengthen Japan’s global standing, particularly in relation to Taiwan. She has also discussed revisiting trade agreements with the United States, specifically a deal made with former President Donald Trump to lower tariffs in exchange for Japanese investments in the U.S.
Domestic and International Challenges
While Takaichi has garnered support within the LDP, her leadership will face numerous challenges—both at home and abroad.
Economic Woes
Japan’s economy is at a crossroads, with inflation rising and a shrinking workforce due to its aging population. Takaichi’s proposed spending policies may provide a short-term boost, but critics worry that Japan’s debt burden, already one of the highest in the developed world, could become even more unsustainable under her leadership.
Takaichi’s hardline conservative policies are likely to continue to attract younger voters who are disillusioned with the status quo, but her economic approach could alienate both investors and more moderate factions within the party.
International Relations
Takaichi’s strong nationalist stance may also strain Japan’s relationships with neighboring countries. Her frequent visits to the Yasukuni Shrine, which honors World War II war criminals, have long been a source of diplomatic tension with China and South Korea. Additionally, her advocacy for a closer relationship with Taiwan could exacerbate tensions with China, which views any support for Taiwan as a direct challenge to its sovereignty.
The U.S.-Japan Relationship
While Takaichi has received positive remarks from the U.S. Ambassador to Japan, her economic policies—especially her approach to trade deals—could complicate the historically close relationship between the two countries. Takaichi’s views on revisiting the investment deal with the U.S. could trigger fresh negotiations, potentially leading to new challenges in this critical alliance.
Takaichi’s Leadership Style: A Workhorse
Sanae Takaichi’s leadership style is defined by her unwavering commitment to her country and her work ethic. During her victory speech, she declared that she had "thrown away [her] own work-life balance" and would “work, work, work” to turn Japan’s challenges into opportunities. This relentless drive, combined with her no-nonsense conservative values, makes her an intriguing figure in Japanese politics.
Takaichi’s vision for Japan is one of strength, economic revival, and assertiveness on the global stage. If she is confirmed as prime minister, her leadership will likely see a more outspoken, assertive Japan—one that is less inclined to conform to international norms and more willing to challenge the status quo.
A Pivotal Moment for Japan
While Sanae Takaichi is not yet Japan’s prime minister, her leadership of the LDP places her on the brink of history. Her potential leadership could mark a new chapter for Japan, especially with her hard-right policies on economic security and foreign relations. However, whether her nationalistic agenda will unite or divide the nation remains to be seen.
As Japan waits for the parliamentary vote on October 15, the world will be watching closely. Will Takaichi’s bold, conservative vision bring the stability and growth that Japan needs, or will it spark further political and diplomatic friction?
What do you think? Will Takaichi’s rise represent a positive change for Japan, or is the country heading into uncertain territory with her leadership?
