tokyo – Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi revealed she routinely sleeps only two to four hours per night, speaking at a legislative commitee meeting amid growing public debate over her governance’s stance on work culture.
Takaichi’s admission followed recent criticism sparked by a 3:00 AM staff meeting she convened in preparation for a parliamentary session. “I sleep for about two hours now, the maximum is four hours. I think this is bad for my skin,” she stated when questioned about reducing long working hours in Japan, according to The Straits Times.
Japan has historically grappled with intense work demands, a phenomenon linked to karoshi – death by overwork.
During the committee meeting, Takaichi also addressed government considerations regarding adjustments to overtime limits to bolster economic growth, acknowledging differing needs between workers and companies. She noted some individuals hold multiple jobs to supplement income, while others face strict overtime restrictions imposed by employers. Takaichi stressed any changes would prioritize occupational health.
“Ideally, everyone can balance caring for children, working, enjoying free time and resting,” she explained.
Takaichi,Japan’s first female prime minister,assumed office in October 2025. Upon election as head of the Liberal Democratic Party, she pledged to abandon the concept of “work-life balance” in favor of maximizing work effort. Since taking office, she has maintained a demanding schedule, including regional visits and bilateral meetings with United States President Donald Trump, Chinese President Xi jinping, and South korean President Lee Jae Myung.