Sanae Takaichi education and career path: How a staunch conservative became Japan’s first female prime minister

Sanae Takaichi, inspired by Thatcher, rose from a six-hour daily commute at Kobe University to become Japan’s first female Prime Minister in 2025. After early setbacks, she built a decades-long political career in the LDP, holding senior ministerial roles. Her conservative values, international experience, and focus on women’s healthcare, caregiving, and national security define her pragmatic, determined leadership.