YouTube's influence fuels Japan's anti-foreigner politics

The Rise of Right-Wing Sentiment in Japan

Yuta Kato, a 38-year-old hairdresser based in Tokyo's Ginza district, has grown increasingly frustrated with foreigners who seem unaware of Japan’s social etiquette. Whether it's blocking the streets near his workplace or distracting commuters by playing loud videos on their phones, these actions have sparked a growing sense of concern among locals like Kato.

Kato is part of a larger movement of Japanese voters supporting the right-wing Sanseito party. This group has gained momentum in recent years, particularly during an upper house election where their warnings about foreign influence helped them establish a strong presence. For Kato, this isn't about discrimination but rather about awareness and respect for cultural norms.

Many Sanseito supporters, including Kato, rely on YouTube and other social media platforms for information. These digital spaces have become crucial for the party to spread its "Japanese First" message, which emphasizes national identity and cultural preservation.

Despite the relatively small percentage of foreign-born residents in Japan—only 3% of the population—the increasing number of tourists in major cities has made foreigners more visible. While Sanseito does not typically target specific immigrant groups, experts suggest that the party taps into broader concerns, such as problematic tourist behavior and conspiracy theories surrounding foreign influence, particularly from China.

Concerns About Chinese Influence

Chinese residents are the largest group of foreign nationals in Japan, and they often become the focus of anti-immigrant rhetoric online. Kato believes that Chinese people are quietly taking over the country, a sentiment echoed in various online discussions. Sanseito leaders, including Sohei Kamiya, have raised concerns about Chinese investments in land and resources within Japan. One of the party's stated policies is to "stop the silent invasion of Japan by foreign forces."

Sanseito has not directly responded to requests for comment, and Kamiya has previously denied accusations that the party is xenophobic. However, the party's growing influence is evident, especially among younger demographics.

Younger Voters and Digital Presence

According to a poll conducted by public broadcaster NHK, Sanseito is most popular among individuals aged 18 to 39, with men showing more support than women. This trend mirrors a global shift toward right-wing parties in democracies. In contrast, support for the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), which lost its majority in the recent election, is strongest among those over 70, with no significant gender divide.

The party's strong online presence has allowed it to reach younger voters more effectively than the LDP. 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 on their content. Jeffrey Hall, a lecturer at Kanda University of International Studies, notes that "they are the party of YouTube," highlighting the platform's role in shaping political discourse.

Broader Appeal and Political Ambitions

Born during the COVID-19 pandemic, when the party spread conspiracy theories about vaccinations, Sanseito has since broadened its appeal. It now focuses on tough immigration policies and addressing economic challenges, such as rising living costs. Additionally, the party aims to abolish Japan’s pacifist constitution and restore the Emperor’s authority—a stance shared by other right-wing groups.

These ideas, while considered fringe, have found traction through provocative campaigns, such as black trucks blaring imperial-era military songs across Japanese cities. Sanseito has set its sights on emulating the successes of far-right groups in Europe, including Germany’s AfD and Britain’s Reform UK.

Public Reaction and Backlash

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, expressing confidence in the party’s ability to deliver results.

However, the party's rise has also sparked backlash from those who fear it is normalizing xenophobia. Protesters attended the rally, attempting to drown out the speakers. Miroko Kato, a 42-year-old haiku poet, criticized the party for spreading misinformation and diverting frustrations onto others. "We're here to say: we're watching you!" she declared, emphasizing the need for vigilance against divisive rhetoric.