Encountering ‘Sanseito’: Japan’s New Right-Wing Populist Party

By Barrier Free Japan

July 7 2025

KOBE – Election time is once again upon us in Japan. Political parties are canvassing across the country, and despite the presence—and volume—of the ever-present “sound trucks” (vehicles outfitted with loudspeakers to help candidates broadcast their messages), it remains a refreshing experience to witness candidates and their supporters campaigning openly and directly for votes, even if one cannot cast a ballot oneself.

Still, it was somewhat unexpected when a foreign resident in Kobe was handed a leaflet by one of Japan’s more recently established and increasingly vocal political parties: Sanseito (参政党). Bright orange and emblazoned with the slogan “Don’t destroy Japan any further” (これ以上、日本を壊すな), the leaflet’s assertive tone immediately stood out. It promotes a platform built around the phrase “Japanese People First” (日本人ファースト), and outlines what the party calls its “three pillars” and “nine policies.” Here is a literal of Sanseito’s “three pillars” and “nine policies”:

Three Pillars (３つの柱)

1. 日本人を豊かにするTo enrich the Japanese people(Tax, Industry, Immigration)
2. 日本人を守り抜くTo thoroughly protect the Japanese people(Food, Health, Medical)
3. 日本人を育むTo nurture the Japanese people(Education, Human Development)

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Nine Policies (９つの政策)

1. 「集めて配る」より、まず減税Rather than “collecting and distributing,” start with tax cuts
2. 「勝つ産業」で日本再興Revive Japan through “winning industries”
3. 行き過ぎた外国人受け入れに反対Oppose the excessive acceptance of foreigners
4. 米の確保と食の安全Secure rice and ensure food safety
5. GoToトラベルで医療費削減Reduce medical expenses through GoTo Travel
6. 金儲け医療・WHOパンデミック条約に反対Oppose profit-driven medicine and the WHO Pandemic Treaty
7. 偏差値重視の受験教育を廃止！Abolish test score–focused entrance exam education!
8. 子供一人につき月10万円¥100,000 per month for each child
9. 憲法づくりで政治に哲学をBring philosophy into politics through constitutional reform

Though Sanseito remains a relatively minor party in terms of parliamentary seats, it has drawn increased attention in recent months. It appeals to voters dissatisfied with both the ruling coalition and opposition parties, particularly those who feel that traditional values and national interests have been eroded.

Political analysts suggest that Sanseito is benefiting from a shift among conservative voters, especially those who previously supported the Democratic Party for the People (DPP), and are now turning to Sanseito as a default alternative. The party’s messaging, which blends nationalism, economic protectionism, and skepticism toward globalization, resonates with segments of the electorate who feel left behind by mainstream politics.