Shigeru Ishiba, the newly elected leader of Japan’s Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and set to become the country’s next prime minister, is known for his serious demeanor, yet he harbors an unexpected array of passions that endear him to many. From plastic miniature models to a deep-seated love for trains and ramen noodles, Ishiba has emerged as a unique figure in Japanese politics, often referred to as an “otaku,” a term that signifies obsessive enthusiasm for specific hobbies.
Ishiba’s fascination with plastic models is particularly pronounced. His office, stacked with political and historical texts, is also filled with meticulously crafted miniatures. In a television interview during his time as defense minister from 2007 to 2008, he expressed, “It’s like bringing a dream to reality.” He believes that these models serve a diplomatic purpose, as well. For instance, he showcased a plastic model of a U.S. P3 patrol plane during a meeting with an American ambassador, a gesture designed to spark connection and nostalgia.
His passion for trains is equally evident. On his Instagram account, Ishiba has shared his excitement about full-size trains, especially the Hikari bullet train. He boasts having taken the sleeper train between Tokyo and his constituency in Tottori over 1,000 times. “The super express! Their shining interior… and unprecedented style…” he reminisced, recalling the first time he boarded the bullet train, a memory that still brings him joy.
In addition to his model and train obsessions, Ishiba leads the “Ramen Parliamentary Group,” comprising over 50 LDP members, established in 2022 to celebrate Japan’s beloved noodle dish. He has been vocal about the nuances of ramen, discussing the impact of imported versus home-grown ingredients on flavor. His culinary journey began with Chicken Ramen, eventually transitioning to Nissin Foods’ Demae Iccho, which he fondly remembers enjoying while studying for high school entrance exams.
As Ishiba prepares to tackle pressing national issues like rising living costs and navigating security tensions in East Asia, his unique hobbies provide a glimpse into the man behind the politician. With his blend of earnestness and lighthearted enthusiasm, Shigeru Ishiba is poised to lead Japan with a distinctively personal touch.
Sources By Agencies
