Historic Moment: First Woman Prime Minister Moves into Storied Tokyo Residence
Japan's first woman prime minister moves into a legendary Tokyo residence with a dramatic historical past. Sanae Takaichi embraces her new home, undeterred by rumors of ghostly predecessors.
In a landmark moment for Japanese politics, Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has officially taken up residence in the legendary official prime ministerial mansion, a building steeped in dramatic historical significance and whispered tales of spectral presence.
The 64-year-old leader, who campaigned on a platform of intense dedication – promising to "work, work, work, work and work" – has transitioned from parliamentary accommodations into the stone-and-brick residence after more than two months in office. Her move comes on the heels of criticism surrounding her lengthy 35-minute commute during a significant earthquake in early December, highlighting the strategic importance of her new home's location.
Built in 1929 and architecturally inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright's now-demolished Imperial Hotel, the residence carries a complex legacy. The building has witnessed two attempted military coups in the 1930s, during which several top government officials, including a prime minister, were assassinated by young military officers. Rumored to contain at least one historical bullet hole, the mansion is said to be haunted by the spirits of those turbulent events.
Despite its ghostly reputation, Takaichi's predecessors have had varied experiences. Shigeru Ishiba boldly claimed he wasn't afraid of potential phantoms, while Fumio Kishida reported sleeping peacefully. Interestingly, former premiers Shinzo Abe and Yoshihide Suga opted to live elsewhere, leaving the supposed spirits unaccompanied for nearly a decade.
The prime minister herself seems undaunted by supernatural speculation, consistently demonstrating her remarkable work ethic by sleeping just two to four hours nightly. As Japan's first woman to hold this prestigious position, Takaichi's move into this historic residence symbolizes not just a personal milestone, but a significant moment in the nation's ongoing journey of political evolution and representation.
With its rich historical backdrop and whispers of spectral inhabitants, the official residence stands as a powerful metaphor for Japan's complex political landscape – resilient, transformative, and always moving forward.
Based on reporting by CBS News
This story was written by BrightWire based on verified news reports.
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