Sanae Takaichi, Japan’s first female prime minister, has been in office for just a month yet has already reshaped the country’s political landscape and drawn global attention. Praised by President Donald Trump during a recent visit to Tokyo and criticized sharply by China’s Xi Jinping, she has quickly become a central figure in East Asian geopolitics
Takaichi’s remark that Japan could be drawn into a conflict if China moved militarily against Taiwan set off a diplomatic storm. Beijing responded with economic pressure, public denouncements at the UN, canceled tourist flights, and threats to restrict imports of Japanese seafood. Chinese state media escalated the tension with personal attacks, depicting her in militaristic caricatures tied to Japan’s wartime past.
Despite the backlash, Takaichi’s approval ratings have soared, with about 70% of voters supporting her new government. Which is more than double that of her predecessor. Many Japanese citizens appreciate her assertiveness and her alignment with U.S. security ties. Her conservative background, including past critiques of wartime apologies and visits to Yasukuni Shrine, has made her a polarizing but influential figure.
Her rise has also captured attention due to her intense work ethic. She famously began work at 3 a.m. from a parliamentary dormitory shortly after taking office. Allies, including Taiwan and the United States, have expressed strong support. Meanwhile, Japanese officials remain cautious about economic risks, especially concerning potential Chinese restrictions on rare-earth minerals essential to industry.
Unfazed by the diplomatic turbulence, Takaichi continues to project confidence, even joking on social media about choosing outfits that might give her an edge in negotiations. As tensions with China persist, her leadership marks the beginning of a more assertive and unpredictable chapter in Japan’s foreign policy.
Reference
Douglas, J., Fukutome, J., & Hong-ji/Reuters, K. (2025, November 24). Japan’s Sanae Takaichi infuriated Beijing. She isn’t backing down. The Wall Street Journal. https://www.wsj.com/world/asia/japan-china-sanae-takaichi-xi-jinping-d5d1a97d?st=YdQEKX