Japan PM Sanae Takaichi discusses domestic workload

Japan’s Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has highlighted the additional time required to manage household responsibilities alongside her official duties. During a parliamentary session, Takaichi noted that her morning routine and domestic tasks consume approximately three to four hours more than what her male predecessors required.

In addition to managing the country, Takaichi is currently caring for her husband as he recovers from a stroke. She described her schedule as extremely demanding, noting that she often receives only two to four hours of sleep per night. These comments have sparked discussions regarding work-life balance and the unique challenges women face in high-level leadership roles.

Takaichi, who took leadership of the Liberal Democratic Party in October 2025, has maintained a rigorous work ethic, previously calling meetings as early as 3 am. She clarified that her remarks were not intended to promote overworking, but rather to illustrate the complexities of balancing personal and political obligations.