Japans populære statsminister Sanae Takaichi – «Sana-mani» og utsolgte vesker

A surge in popularity is following Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, fueled by a dedicated fanbase and a fascination with her everyday choices. The phenomenon highlights a shift in Japanese politics, blending tradition with pop culture and capturing the attention of a younger generation.

Dubbed “Sana” by her supporters, people are emulating the 64-year-old prime minister’s habits and style. Demand for the black “Hamano” leather tote bag she carries to work has skyrocketed, selling out in stores, according to the Associated Press.

Fans are similarly seeking out the same pen used by Takaichi and enjoying a favorite meal of hers: steamed pork buns. This enthusiastic following has been dubbed “Sana-katsu,” or “Sana-mania.”

A Playful Politician

Takaichi presents herself as a strong leader with interests ranging from motorcycles to heavy metal music. This approach is resonating with young voters, offering a stark contrast to the often-stiff image of traditional Japanese politicians.

“It feels like Japan has changed,” 21-year-old Genki Takahashi told Bloomberg while attending a recent campaign event for the prime minister.

The “Sanae bag,” a classic black tote from Hamano Leather Crafts, has turn into a symbol of her style, with the 145-year-old brand experiencing a surge in popularity since she began carrying it in October 2025. The bag is described as practical and elegant, large enough to hold A4-sized files.

Takaichi’s rise to power has also coincided with a period of political turmoil for her party, helping to divert attention from recent scandals. According to some polls, she is the favorite politician of nine out of ten young people aged 18 to 21.

Last week’s election saw a landslide victory for Takaichi’s Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), securing a two-thirds majority in the lower house of parliament and breaking records for the powerful chamber. The LDP’s coalition partner, the Japan Innovation Party, also benefited from the surge in support.

This outcome positions Takaichi to easily overcome opposition in the upper house, where other parties hold more power. She became the nation’s first female prime minister four months ago, already enjoying a higher level of public trust than her recent predecessors.

“I will work, work, and work,” has become her mantra. The Economist recently called her “the world’s most powerful woman.”

In January, Takaichi surprised many by trading her formal attire for a blue tracksuit and taking to the stage to play drums alongside South Korean President Lee Jae Myung. The diplomatic gesture, seen as an attempt to find common ground, came as both nations navigate complex regional challenges.

Both countries are allies of the United States, concerned about North Korea, and wary of China’s growing influence. Takaichi is expected to move Japan further away from its post-World War II pacifist stance, potentially revising the country’s constitution to strengthen its self-defense forces and increase military spending to 2% of GDP.

Such changes are likely to be welcomed in Washington, met with concern in Seoul, and draw criticism from Pyongyang and Beijing. With a prime minister who is both hailed as an “iron woman” and celebrated as a rockstar at home, the future of Japan promises to be dynamic.

Publisert 15.02.2026, kl. 16.50 Oppdatert 15.02.2026, kl. 17.52