Japan's First Female PM Sanae Takaichi: Work Ethic, Fashion Icon Status, and Political Impact

The iconic black bag carried by Japan's Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, now widely known as the "Sanae Bag," has significantly enhanced her status as a style icon.

Japan's first female Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's pledge to "work, work, work, work and work" for her nation has been recognized as this year's most notable catchphrase.

The ultraconservative leader made this declaration in October when she assumed leadership of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party. While some admired her enthusiasm, others expressed concern about her intense work ethic.

During her acceptance speech for the award presented by a private committee this week, Takaichi clarified her intentions, stating, "I have no intention of encouraging other people to overwork, or suggesting long working hours as a virtue. I hope there is no misunderstanding."

Since becoming Prime Minister in late October, Takaichi has garnered significant attention for her fashion choices, with many women eagerly emulating her style.

Though her fashion sense has earned admiration from younger women who proudly declare themselves "Sana-katsu" (supporters of Sanae), it remains uncertain whether her conservative policy positions will receive similar acclaim.

Takaichi is working to recapture right-wing supporters following the LDP's substantial electoral defeats under her moderate predecessor Shigeru Ishiba.

During her October 4 address to party members, she committed to an all-out effort to revitalize the struggling party and rebuild public trust, urging lawmakers to "work like a horse." She then added, "I will abandon the idea of a 'work-life balance' - I will work, work, work, work and work."

Her repetition of "work" in a determined, low voice left a powerful impression at the time.

Takaichi's apparent extended working hours and limited sleep have caused concern among fellow lawmakers. Before parliament opened on November 7, she held a meeting with aides at 3 a.m., though she hasn't maintained such early schedules since then.

"I sleep about two hours now, four hours at the longest," Takaichi, who also cares for her husband recovering from a stroke, revealed during a budget committee meeting last month. "It's probably bad for my skin."

She mentions enjoying relaxation in a hot bath morning and night, describing these moments as "my blissful time."

The Prime Minister's reputation as a fashion icon has been bolstered by her black bag, nicknamed the "Sanae Bag," officially named the Grace Delight Tote. This bag is manufactured by Hamano Inc., a Tokyo-based company with 145 years of history.

Priced at 136,400 yen ($875), this simple leather bag is precisely sized to accommodate A4 papers. According to the company, it's experiencing unprecedented sales since its introduction 30 years ago.

Takaichi was spotted carrying this bag when entering the prime minister's office on October 21, creating an immediate sensation on social media.

Hamano spokesperson Takanori Kobayashi expressed the company's delight in seeing Japan's first female prime minister carrying their product.

Within days, inquiries and orders for the bag surged dramatically, resulting in all eight colors selling out. The carefully crafted, high-quality leather bag cannot be mass-produced, and new orders now have an August delivery date, according to Kobayashi.

Another item gaining popularity is Takaichi's sparkly light-pink pen, the Mitsubishi Pencil Co.'s Jetstream 4&1, used for note-taking.

This pen, known as the "Sanae Takaichi model," is frequently out of stock in stores and online. Those fortunate enough to acquire one proudly share photos with the caption: "Matching Sanae."

The attention Takaichi receives is typically reserved for pop stars, athletes, and influencers in Japan, whom fans usually only encounter through television or internet.

The Prime Minister's supporters demonstrate their loyalty by purchasing the same bag and pen she uses, similar to how fans of star athletes like Shohei Ohtani buy replica uniforms to support the Dodgers, according to experts.

Takaichi has earned admiration as a new type of female role model, appealing to women who haven't traditionally supported prime ministers, notes Namiko Kubo-Kawai, a psychology professor at Nagoya Shukutoku University.

In Japan, where female role models have typically been celebrated for their femininity, Takaichi stands out as a powerful politician. Her short haircut and practical workwear distinguish her from conventional female models.

However, she may not resonate with many feminists. Takaichi is a firm conservative who champions Japan's traditional gender roles and paternalistic values. She supports maintaining male-only succession for Japan's monarchy and opposes reforming a 19th-century law that would allow married couples to maintain separate surnames.

Nevertheless, as Japan's first female prime minister, "she fits perfectly as a stylish role model and has won admiration from many women who have been looking for one even though they probably have never thought of rooting for a prime minister," explains Kubo-Kawai. "Female role models are becoming more diverse."