Sanae Takaichi: Inside The Life And Career Of Japan’s First Female PM

Sanae Takaichi has made history as Japan’s first female Prime Minister, marking a bold new chapter in the country’s political landscape. Her journey from humble beginnings to the highest office is a story of resilience, conviction, and trailblazing leadership. (Image: File Pic)

Born on March 7, 1961, in Yamatokōriyama, Nara Prefecture, Sanae Takaichi grew up in a working-class household. Her father was a car mechanic, and her mother served as a police officer, an upbringing far removed from Japan’s traditional political dynasties. She graduated from Kobe University, later studying public policy at the University of California, though she did not complete her degree abroad. (Image: File Pic)

Takaichi entered politics in 1993 as an independent and later joined the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) in 1996. Her career spans over three decades, during which she held several key ministerial positions: Minister for Internal Affairs and Communications under Prime Minister Shinzo Abe (2014-2017, 2019-2020), Minister of State for Economic Security under Prime Minister Fumio Kishida (2022-2024), Minister of State for Okinawa and Northern Territories Affairs (2006-2007), ans Chairperson of the LDP Policy Research Council, among other influential roles. (Image: Moneycontrol)

She became known for her strong conservative views, particularly on national security, constitutional reform, and economic resilience. (Image: Instagram)

On October 21, 2025, Sanae Takaichi assumed office as Prime Minister of Japan, succeeding Shigeru Ishiba. (Image: Instagram)

She also became the President of the LDP, making her the first woman to hold both positions simultaneously. Her leadership style is marked by discipline, assertiveness, and a focus on Japan’s strategic autonomy. (Image: Instagram)

Beyond politics, Takaichi is known for her eclectic interests. She’s a fan of rock music, rides motorcycles, and has authored books on political philosophy. (Image: Instagram)

Her personal life includes two marriages to fellow politician Taku Yamamoto, with whom she shares three children. (Image: Instagram)