Takaichi, who took office in October 2025 as Japan’s 104th Prime Minister, has already earned a reputation for her iron clad work ethic. In her first address, she famously rejected the idea of work life balance, declaring that Japan’s shrinking population demands work, work, and nothing but work. She urged citizens to ‘work like horses’, a phrase that quickly travelled across social media and dinner tables alike.
Soon after taking office, she reshuffled schedules so aggressively that officials were left scrambling in the dark. A budget meeting originally set for 9 a.m. was abruptly pushed to 3 a.m., turning her team’s routine upside down and leaving many aides in a state of midnight confusion.
During her latest committee appearance, Takaichi spoke with remarkable candor. I live on the habit of minimal sleep. I sleep at least two hours, and at most four. I know it may not be the best for my skin, she said with a rare hint of humor.
When asked about expanding overtime limits and reviving economic activity, she responded with a matter-of-fact clarity. Workers and employers have different needs. Some people juggle two jobs just to make ends meet, while some companies enforce strict overtime restrictions.
Japan has long grappled with a work-culture storm, where the pursuit of productivity often comes at the cost of health. The term ‘karoshi’ death by overwork has sadly become part of everyday language. In such a climate, Takaichi’s comments have sparked a fresh debate on whether her relentless style is an inspiration or a warning.
