Japan’s first female prime minister, Sanae Takaichi, has highlighted the additional time she spends on household chores compared to her male predecessors. During a parliamentary session on Wednesday, she expressed that her morning routine and domestic tasks consume significantly more time, reportedly three to four hours more than what her male counterparts required. This revelation has sparked renewed discussions regarding the work culture in Japan and the unique challenges faced by women in leadership roles.

Takaichi’s comments were prompted by a question regarding the extensive hours that Japanese prime ministers typically dedicate to parliamentary duties. A member of the Japan Innovation Party, which is part of the ruling coalition, raised concerns about the lengthy hours spent in the legislature. In response, Takaichi noted that the demands of her household responsibilities hinder her ability to focus on the future of the country effectively.

Despite identifying as a workaholic, Takaichi’s remarks underscore the struggle to maintain a work-life balance. After assuming leadership of the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) in October 2025, she encouraged her colleagues to adopt a rigorous work ethic and committed to her own demanding schedule. This included holding meetings as early as 3 am in preparation for parliamentary sessions, alongside admitting to only getting two to four hours of sleep each night.

Personal Responsibilities Amidst Political Duties

In addition to her political obligations, Takaichi has been caring for her husband, who is recovering from a stroke. This dual responsibility of managing government affairs while attending to family needs has added complexity to her already tight schedule. She has since clarified that her intention was not to promote overworking or suggest that long hours are commendable, yet her routine remains a focal point of public interest.

To facilitate her work, Takaichi has enhanced the office facilities at her official residence, allowing her to conduct meetings and review documents after standard working hours. She noted that residing next to her office has reduced commuting time, enabling her to respond swiftly to urgent matters. In July 2026, she mentioned being engrossed in work until dawn, often sifting through documents related to parliamentary inquiries and other responsibilities.

On Wednesday, Takaichi reiterated her enjoyment of reviewing these documents during late hours, despite acknowledging the difficulties in carving out time for clear and strategic thinking. Her commitment to longer working hours has become a public declaration, reflecting the additional burdens she faces due to household and caregiving tasks.

Implications for Women in Leadership

Takaichi’s experience highlights the broader implications for women in leadership positions, particularly in a society known for its demanding work culture. Her remarks shine a light on the often-overlooked responsibilities that female leaders may juggle alongside their professional commitments. As the first woman to hold the prime ministerial office in Japan, her situation draws attention to the need for a more equitable approach to work-life balance, especially for women in high-stakes roles.

As discussions around work culture and gender equality continue to evolve, Takaichi’s insights may serve as a catalyst for change. Her candid acknowledgment of the challenges she faces could encourage a dialogue on how organisations can better support women leaders, enabling them to thrive both at work and at home. The ongoing conversation surrounding her experiences may ultimately contribute to a shift in perceptions about the roles and responsibilities of women in leadership within Japan.

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