January 27, 2026, marked a major political milestone for Japan.
The 51st House of Representatives election was officially announced today, kicking off a 12-day sprint campaign.
This article breaks down today’s key news from three perspectives: “Politics,” “Economy & Society,” and “Entertainment & Sports.”
- 1. [Politics] 51st House Election Announced: 12 Days to Test the “True Worth” of the Takaichi Administration
- 2. 【Economy & Society】House of Representatives Election Costs Reach ¥85.5 Billion, Clearly Reflecting Rising Prices
- 3. 【Entertainment & Sports】Cast Announced for Yo Oizumi’s “Our Hakone Ekiden”
- Summary: The next 12 days will determine Japan’s future
1. [Politics] 51st House Election Announced: 12 Days to Test the “True Worth” of the Takaichi Administration
Today, the 51st General Election for the House of Representatives was officially announced.
The de facto election campaign has commenced, leading up to the voting and counting on February 8th.
Key Issues and Party Movements
The main issues in this election are the legitimacy of the coalition government formed by the Liberal Democratic Party and the Japan Innovation Party, and economic policies centered on measures against rising prices.
- Ruling Coalition (LDP/Ishin) Goal
Set securing a majority of 233 seats out of the total 465 seats as the victory threshold. - Prime Minister Takaichi’s Pledge
The flagship policy of introducing “zero consumption tax on food (by fiscal 2026)”. However, in today’s remarks, cautious phrasing was also seen, stating “agreement at the National Conference is a prerequisite”. - Opposition (Center-Left Reform Alliance, etc.) Countermeasures
The “Center-Left Reform Alliance,” formed by the Constitutional Democratic Party and Komeito, advocates for a permanent consumption tax cut and aims to become the largest party in comparison.
Key Point: With the election campaign period being the shortest since the postwar era at just 16 days (from dissolution to voting day), coupled with it being a midwinter election, each campaign is accelerating its digital strategy utilizing social media and short videos.
2. 【Economy & Society】House of Representatives Election Costs Reach ¥85.5 Billion, Clearly Reflecting Rising Prices
The economic dynamics and social news unfolding behind the scenes of the election cannot be ignored.
Increased Election Costs
The government has decided to allocate approximately 85.5 billion yen from reserve funds for this House of Representatives election.
Driven by rising labor costs and inflation, this represents an increase of about 3.9 billion yen from the previous 2024 election, sparking debate over the cost burden on citizens.
Social and Incident Developments
- Tokyo University Professor Suspected of Bribery
Allegations of lavish entertainment at French restaurants and Ginza clubs have surfaced amid hospitality scandals, causing widespread social repercussions. - Unusual Developments in Osaka Mayoral Election
Today’s announcement of the Osaka double election (mayoral race) saw unprecedented chaos, including intense heckling during speeches, prompting experts to sound the alarm.
3. 【Entertainment & Sports】Cast Announced for Yo Oizumi’s “Our Hakone Ekiden”
It’s not all gloomy news.
Here’s today’s hot entertainment scoop.
- Drama Update
Eighteen new cast members for the drama “Our Hakone Ekiden,” starring Yo Oizumi and based on the novel by Jun Ikeido, will be announced over four consecutive days.
Today, the participation of Toranosuke Kobayashi and Tomoya Oku was revealed. - Music Charts
SixTONES’ latest album has reached number one.
Chanmina’s comment “I want to be moved” is also trending on social media. - Table Tennis World Championships
The preliminary draw for the London tournament has been announced, presenting a favorable opportunity for both the Japanese men’s and women’s teams to be placed in separate groups from China.
Summary: The next 12 days will determine Japan’s future
January 27, 2026, marked a day of major political shifts in Japan.
Will it be the “proactive fiscal policy” championed by Prime Minister Takaichi, or the “people-first approach” advocated by the opposition parties?
The election campaign unfolds amid lingering snow along the Sea of Japan coast and bitter cold, yet we face a critical choice directly impacting our daily lives.
