Japan’s first female Prime Minister, Sanae Takaichi, finds herself at the centre of a national debate as the Fukuoka Grand Sumo Tournament nears its finale. The question dividing public opinion: Will she step into the sacred dohyo (sumo ring) to present the Prime Minister’s Trophy — a role long reserved for men under Shinto custom?
Her decision could become a defining symbol — either of respect for centuries-old tradition or a step toward modern gender equality in Japan.
Historic Role and Early Challenges
Sanae Takaichi assumed office in October 2025, becoming Japan’s first female Prime Minister after securing victory in the Liberal Democratic Party leadership race.
Known for her conservative stance, focus on national security, and economic revival, Takaichi has so far projected continuity. Now, however, this cultural crossroads tests how Japan’s first woman leader balances reverence for heritage with the evolving demands of modern society.
The Religious Roots of Exclusion
The exclusion of women from the dohyo stems from Shinto religious beliefs that consider the sumo ring a sacred space. According to ancient custom, women are barred due to notions of ritual impurity associated with menstruation.
This unwritten rule has long prevented women from entering the ring — as wrestlers, referees, or presenters. Despite decades of debate and calls for reform, the Japan Sumo Association (JSA) maintains the ban as a matter of cultural preservation rather than discrimination.
Past Controversies and Reform Efforts
The tradition has faced scrutiny multiple times:
- 1990: Chief Cabinet Secretary Mayumi Moriyama was denied entry to the ring.
- 2000: Osaka Governor Fuse Ohta was forced to hand over a trophy from a walkway.
- 2018: Female medics were asked to leave the ring while aiding a collapsed mayor — prompting national outrage and an apology from the JSA.
In 2019, an advisory panel was formed to re-evaluate the rule, but no reforms were implemented.
Key Facts
- Sanae Takaichi became Japan’s first female Prime Minister in October 2025.
- Women are banned from entering the sumo ring under Shinto purity beliefs.
- The JSA last reviewed the ban in 2019, but retained it.
- A 2018 incident involving female medics reignited national debate on gender equality.
Balancing Modernity and Tradition
Whether Prime Minister Takaichi chooses to step into the dohyo or remain outside carries immense political and cultural weight.
Entering would break a centuries-old taboo, making a powerful statement for gender inclusion. Staying out, on the other hand, would honour traditional norms, aligning with her conservative base and respect for Shinto customs.
With sumo’s popularity rising again — especially after the recent promotion of homegrown yokozuna Onosato — the spotlight on this moment is brighter than ever.
Japan now watches closely to see whether its first female leader will challenge the boundaries of tradition or uphold its sacred continuity.