Japan's Rising Anti-Foreigner Politics as Right-Wing Party Gains Online Support

Rising Concerns Over Foreign Influence in Japan

Yuta Kato, a 38-year-old hairdresser based in Tokyo's upscale Ginza district, has grown increasingly frustrated with foreigners who seem unaware of Japan's social etiquette. He often witnesses incidents where individuals block the streets near his workplace or distract commuters by playing loud videos on their phones. Kato is part of a growing movement of Japanese voters who are drawn to the right-wing Sanseito party, which has gained significant traction in recent elections.

Kato emphasizes that his concerns are not about discrimination but rather about a lack of awareness. Many supporters of Sanseito, like Kato, rely on YouTube and other social media platforms for information. The party has effectively used these spaces to promote its "Japanese First" message. While only 3% of Japan's population is foreign-born, the increase in tourists has made foreigners more visible in major cities. This visibility has fueled concerns among some citizens.

Sanseito does not specifically target any immigrant groups, but it taps into broader anxieties, including issues with poorly behaved tourists and conspiracy theories about Chinese influence. Romeo Marcantuoni, a Tokyo-based academic, notes that the party capitalizes on these latent fears. Kato believes that Chinese residents, who form the largest group of foreign nationals in Japan, are quietly taking over the country. This sentiment is often amplified online, making Chinese people a focal point for anti-immigrant rhetoric.

The party's leader, Sohei Kamiya, and other lawmakers have raised concerns about Chinese investments in land and resources in Japan. One of Sanseito’s policies aims to "stop the silent invasion of Japan by foreign forces." This rhetoric has sparked backlash from those who fear the normalization of xenophobia. A recent rally drew dozens of protesters who attempted to drown out the speakers.

Miroko Kato, a 42-year-old haiku poet and protester, argues that people are falling for lies and displacing their frustrations—such as economic hardship and political alienation—onto others. She emphasized, "We're here to say: we're watching you!"

Sanseito has not responded to requests for comment, and Kamiya has previously denied accusations of being xenophobic. According to an NHK poll, Sanseito is most popular among 18 to 39-year-olds, with men showing more support than women. This trend reflects a global pattern where younger voters are increasingly drawn to right-wing parties.

In contrast, the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), which lost its majority in the recent election, finds stronger support among older voters, particularly those over 70. Sanseito's online presence has helped it reach younger demographics that the LDP has struggled to engage. A study by Asahi newspaper found that Sanseito's official YouTube channel has three times as many followers as the LDP's, with higher engagement rates.

Jeffrey Hall, a lecturer at Kanda University of International Studies, describes Sanseito as "the party of YouTube." While YouTube has not commented on Sanseito's use of the platform, the company states it monitors content and removes videos that promote harmful behavior.

Broader Appeal and Ideological Shifts

Born during the COVID-19 pandemic, Sanseito initially spread conspiracy theories about vaccinations. It has since broadened its appeal with tough immigration policies and promises to address rising living costs. The party also seeks to abolish Japan's pacifist constitution and restore the Emperor's authority, ideas that resonate with other right-wing groups in Japan.

These groups often travel through cities in black trucks, playing imperial-era military songs. While this style of politics has long been overlooked, Sanseito aims to emulate the success of far-right movements in Europe, such as Germany's AfD and Britain's Reform UK.

At a recent rally outside Tokyo's Shimbashi train station, crowds cheered for newly elected Sanseito lawmakers. Eriko Harada, a 47-year-old housewife, said she voted for the first time this year and believed the party would get things done. Wearing a kimono and a headband with "Samurai Spirit," she expressed her support for the party's vision.

As Sanseito continues to gain momentum, its influence on Japanese politics remains a topic of debate. With a growing base of young supporters and a strong online presence, the party is reshaping the political landscape in ways that could have lasting implications for Japan's future.