Sanae Takaichi has been elected as Japan’s first woman prime minister, ending nearly 80 years of all-male leadership. Her election marks an important moment in Japan’s political and social history.

Japan elected Sanae Takaichi as its first woman prime minister after she won a parliamentary vote on Tuesday. The 64-year-old leader received 237 votes in the 465-member Lower House and was later confirmed by the Upper House. She succeeds Shigeru Ishiba, who stepped down after his party’s poor performance in recent elections.

Her Background and Early Life

Sanae Takaichi was born in 1961 in Nara Prefecture. Her father was an office worker, and her mother served as a police officer. Unlike many senior Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) members educated at elite universities, Takaichi graduated from Kobe University.

Before entering politics, she was known for her interest in music and cars. She played drums in a heavy metal band and enjoyed scuba diving. Her old Toyota Supra is now displayed in a museum in Nara.

Takaichi once worked as a television presenter. Her interest in politics began in the 1980s when she joined the office of U.S. Congresswoman Patricia Schroeder to understand how Americans viewed Japan during a time of trade tensions.

Political Journey and Rise in the LDP

Takaichi first contested a parliamentary election in 1992 as an independent candidate but lost. She won a seat the next year and joined the Liberal Democratic Party in 1996. Since then, she has been elected ten times and lost only once.

She has held several key roles, including Minister for Economic Security, State Minister for Trade and Industry, and Minister for Internal Affairs and Communications. Known for her conservative views, she became one of the most outspoken figures in the LDP.

Takaichi ran for LDP leadership three times. She lost in 2021 and 2024 but finally won in 2025, paving the way to become Japan’s 104th prime minister. Her victory is being seen as a sign of change in Japan’s politics, which has long been dominated by men.

Her Leadership and Challenges Ahead

Takaichi faces several major challenges as she takes office. These include boosting Japan’s economy, improving ties with neighboring countries, and dealing with the issues of an aging population and labor shortages.

Supporters believe her leadership will bring a fresh perspective to Japanese politics. Others say she must prove that her government can balance traditional values with modern reforms.

Sanae Takaichi’s rise from modest beginnings to Japan’s highest political office shows determination and perseverance. As the country’s first woman prime minister, she carries high expectations from both the public and her party. Her leadership marks a new chapter in Japan’s history, blending experience, stability, and the promise of gradual change.