Japan’s Prime Minister, Sanae Takaichi, has officially moved into the prime minister’s official residence in Tokyo, a location known for its historical significance and intriguing lore. Takaichi, who became the first woman to hold this position, made the transition on December 4, 2023, more than two months after taking office.
The residence, a stone-and-brick mansion opened in 1929, is situated adjacent to her offices in the heart of the capital. Prior to her move, Takaichi had been residing in accommodations provided for members of parliament. This arrangement drew public scrutiny when, following a significant earthquake in early December, it took her approximately 35 minutes to reach her office.
Takaichi, 64, has made headlines with her commitment to the role, emphasizing her work ethic with a pledge to “work, work, work, work and work.” She has also noted that her busy schedule allows her only two to four hours of sleep each night since taking office.
Historical Significance and Haunting Tales
The prime minister’s residence is not just a functional space but also a site with a storied past. Designed in a style reminiscent of U.S. architect Frank Lloyd Wright’s now-demolished Imperial Hotel, the mansion is said to harbor the spirits of Japanese soldiers from a century ago. It was the venue of two attempted coups in the 1930s, during which several high-ranking officials, including a prime minister, were assassinated by young military officers. Some claim the ghosts of those involved continue to wander the hallways.
Among the physical remnants of its past is at least one visible bullet hole, which serves as a stark reminder of the residence’s turbulent history. Takaichi’s predecessor, Shigeru Ishiba, also resided there and expressed no fear of the reputed spirits. Similarly, Fumio Kishida, who lived in the residence before Ishiba, reported no sightings of phantoms and claimed to have slept soundly during his time there.
Former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, who mentored Takaichi, and Yoshihide Suga both chose to live elsewhere, leaving the supposed ghosts without prominent company for nine years until Takaichi’s recent move.
A New Era for Japan
As Takaichi settles into her new role, the historical and spectral narratives of the residence may add a unique layer to her leadership experience. While some may find the stories of ghosts unsettling, Takaichi’s focus appears firmly on the demands of her office and her ambition to lead Japan through its current challenges.
With her dedication and the haunting backdrop of her residence, Takaichi’s tenure as Japan’s first female prime minister is set against a tapestry of history that few of her predecessors have experienced. As she navigates her responsibilities, the whispers of the past may serve as a reminder of the resilience required to lead a nation with deep-rooted traditions and complexities.
