Rising Tides: Sanseito's Youth Appeal Amidst Japan's Political Shifts

Yuta Kato is increasingly frustrated by foreigners who disregard Japan's social norms, whether it's blocking streets in Tokyo's Ginza district or playing loud videos on their phones. Kato, a 38-year-old hairdresser, is among many Japanese voters attracted to the right-wing Sanseito party, which recently gained ground in Japan's upper house election.

The party has used social media platforms such as YouTube to spread its "Japanese First" message, drawing in supporters like Kato. Though foreign-born residents constitute just 3% of Japan's population, the increased visibility of tourists has amplified anti-immigrant sentiment in major cities. Sanseito's leader, Sohei Kamiya, and other party members have raised alarms about foreign ownership of Japanese land and resources.

Sanseito, labeled by some as xenophobic, is particularly popular among young voters aged 18 to 39, who are more engaged with the party's online content than with traditional political channels like the ruling Liberal Democratic Party. The party, which gained momentum during the COVID-19 pandemic, has broadened its appeal by pushing strong immigration policies and advocating for constitutional changes, mirroring Europe's far-right groups.

(With inputs from agencies.)