Japan’s political spotlight turned once again toward Sanae Takaichi, the new head of the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), who strategically chose not to visit Tokyo’s controversial Yasukuni Shrine today. The decision comes as she navigates intense political negotiations and a complex path toward becoming Japan’s first female prime minister.
Takaichi, 64, who took leadership of the LDP on October 4, faces mounting challenges after the ruling coalition collapsed last week, temporarily halting her ascent to the top seat. Despite this setback, talks are underway for a new alliance that could still secure her premiership — with a parliamentary vote expected as early as Tuesday.
The Yasukuni Shrine, which honors Japan’s war dead including convicted war criminals, remains a long-standing diplomatic flashpoint. Visits by high-ranking officials have often provoked anger from China and South Korea, countries that endured Japanese occupation during World War II. No Japanese prime minister has visited since 2013, when the late Shinzo Abe — Takaichi’s political mentor — paid his respects.
While Takaichi has made personal visits to the shrine in the past, this time she opted for restraint, sending only an offering during the autumn festival. Her choice reflects an effort to maintain regional peace and avoid reigniting historical tensions at a time when Japan’s domestic politics are already fragile.
The pressure is on. U.S. President Donald Trump is expected to visit Japan at the end of October, with trade and defense expected to dominate discussions. Washington is pushing Tokyo to cut Russian energy imports and increase defense spending, adding another layer of urgency to Japan’s leadership question.
The LDP’s long-standing coalition with the Komeito party ended abruptly on October 10 after disputes over political funding transparency following a major slush fund scandal. The LDP has since opened talks with the Japan Innovation Party (JIP) to form a new governing alliance — a partnership that, while slightly short of a majority, could still ensure Takaichi’s success.
JIP co-head Fumitake Fujita acknowledged both progress and differences in talks with Takaichi, noting shared political philosophies but diverging views on key reforms, including restrictions on corporate donations. Further discussions are expected to determine the fate of the coalition and, potentially, the future of Japan’s leadership.
At this crucial moment, Takaichi’s calculated diplomacy — her decision to prioritize peace over provocation — paints a picture of a leader who understands that sometimes true strength lies in restraint. As Japan stands on the edge of change, the world watches closely to see whether the country will finally welcome its first female prime minister, and with her, a new era of balance between tradition and transformation.
