We supported the production of a feature story for CNA (Channel NewsAsia) Insight, titled
“Why Right-Wing Ideology Is Gaining Popularity in Japan.”
Please have a look here:
For this project, Rio Mimaki served as Fixer, coordinating filming in Japan.
This included approaching interview subjects, arranging logistics such as vehicles, and providing on-location interpreting.
About the Program
From the rise of the new conservative party Sanseito to the emergence of Japan’s first female Prime Minister, Sanae Takaichi, Japanese politics is entering a period of major change.
This program was filmed primarily in Tokyo and features voices from a wide range of perspectives — university professors, members of the National Diet, and ordinary citizens — offering a snapshot of the current political landscape in Japan.
We would like to extend our sincere thanks to everyone who kindly cooperated with the filming.
Interviewees
We first spoke with Professor Koichi Nakano (Sophia University) and Professor Kentaro Yamamoto (Kokugakuin University).
Both provided clear and insightful explanations, covering everything from Japan’s political system to the current political climate.
We also interviewed Sen Yamanaka, a Member of the House of Councillors from Sanseito, as well as Hirotaka Ueki, a National Political Reform Committee member of the party.
Thank you for openly sharing your perspectives on Sanseito’s ideals and future direction.
To provide balance, we interviewed Seiichiro Murakami, Member of the House of Representatives and former Minister for Internal Affairs and Communications, representing the Liberal Democratic Party.
Thank you for sharing your views on the current state of Japanese politics from the LDP’s standpoint.
To better understand public sentiment, we also spoke with Tadami-san and Masato Yanagihara, citizens who support Sanseito.
Listening to their stories helped us better understand why the party resonates with some voters.
In addition, we interviewed Taichi Fujimori, a wine bar owner involved in anti-discrimination activism, and Ozan, a Kurdish immigrant in Japan, to gain perspectives from a different angle.
Both shared strong and thoughtful views on Japan’s current political situation.
Personally, this project was extremely educational.
It made me reflect on the importance of engaging more deeply with politics — not just voting during elections, but truly thinking about where the country is heading.
The Team
For this shoot, our long-time collaborators once again traveled from Singapore:
Producer Shauna, Cinematographer Fex-Sensei, and Sound Recordist Sue-chan.
Along with our local driver Mr. Kim, it was an outstanding team.
On the final day, Mr. Kim even gifted Sue-chan’s daughter a randoseru (Japanese school backpack) that his own daughter had finished using — a moment that perfectly captured the warm spirit of this production.
It was truly a pleasure working together once again.
We hope to see you all back in Japan soon!
