Mr. Makiyama (center) and others celebrating his assured re-election for a fourth term—around 8:10 PM on the 20th at a hotel in Naka Ward, Yokohama.

The 27th House of Councillors election was held on the 20th. Incumbent Constitutional Democratic Party member Hiroe Makiyama (60) received confirmation of his victory shortly after 8 PM that day and led supporters in a celebratory cheer at a hotel in Naka Ward, Yokohama. With a joyful smile, he expressed gratitude, saying, “I fought straight ahead. So many people became my biggest supporters and stood by me.”

Mr. Makiyama being welcomed with applause at a hotel in Naka Ward, Yokohama.

The party headquarters initially planned to field two incumbents, including Makiyama, but after the other incumbent withdrew in May following harassment allegations reported in a weekly magazine, local party members united to continue the campaign. The supporting organization, Rengo Kanagawa, upgraded its stance from “support” to “endorsement” just before the official announcement, bolstering his efforts. His advocacy for measures against rising prices, including a 0% consumption tax on food, resonated with voters.

Reflecting on the 17-day campaign, he said, “I heard many voices about how rising food and gasoline costs are straining livelihoods. Those voices pushed me forward.” Looking ahead to his fourth term, he affirmed, “I will implement concrete policies to address inflation and remain committed to politics that stay close to people’s lives.”

Hiroe Makiyama His motivation for entering politics stems from childhood experiences with bullying and living in impoverished countries. Over three terms (18 years), his policy focus has been “protecting lives.” He currently chairs the House of Councillors’ Committee on Economy and Industry. Before politics, he worked as a U.S. attorney. His trademark is olive-green attire. A devoted parent of two, he cherishes time with family. Resides in Naka Ward, Yokohama. Age 60.

House of Councillors

The **House of Councillors** is the upper house of Japan’s National Diet (parliament), established in 1947 under the post-World War II Constitution. It replaced the pre-war House of Peers and serves as a deliberative body with the power to review and amend legislation passed by the lower house, the House of Representatives. The chamber consists of 248 members elected through a mixed electoral system, with staggered six-year terms ensuring continuity.

Constitutional Democratic Party

The Constitutional Democratic Party (Kadets) was a liberal political party in the Russian Empire, founded in 1905 during the revolutionary period. It advocated for a constitutional monarchy, civil rights, and democratic reforms, playing a key role in the short-lived State Dumas. After the Bolshevik Revolution in 1917, the party was banned, and many of its members went into exile.

Naka Ward, Yokohama

Naka Ward is a central district in Yokohama, Japan, known for its vibrant cultural sites and historical significance. It is home to the iconic Yokohama Chinatown, one of the largest in the world, as well as the historic Yamate area, where Western-style residences from the late 19th century still stand. The ward also features landmarks like the Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse, reflecting the city’s port history and modernization during the Meiji era.

Rengo Kanagawa

Rengo Kanagawa refers to the historic Kanagawa Prefecture in Japan, which played a key role during the late Edo period (1853-1868) as a major port opened to foreign trade under the Kanagawa Treaty (1854). The area, particularly Yokohama, became a center of international exchange and modernization. Today, it is known for its blend of traditional and modern culture, with landmarks like Yokohama’s Minato Mirai and historic sites linked to Japan’s opening to the West.

House of Councillors’ Committee on Economy and Industry

The House of Councillors’ Committee on Economy and Industry is a key legislative body in Japan’s upper house of the National Diet, responsible for deliberating on policies related to economic growth, trade, industry, and energy. Established as part of Japan’s post-war parliamentary system, it plays a crucial role in shaping national economic strategies and industrial regulations. The committee reviews bills, conducts inquiries, and holds discussions with government officials and experts to inform policymaking.