Resonance Called 'Sana-katsu' — A Gaze Toward a Dignified Politician

'Sana-katsu' is a term flying around the internet. It is said that the number of people seeking the same bags, ballpoint pens, and even suit colors worn by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is surging. It is just like the 'oshi-katsu' (fan activities) for idols.

The 'Sanae bag' introduced by the media is a simple cowhide handbag, priced at around 150,000 yen. It is by no means cheap. Yet, it is surprising to hear that orders are flooding in. Even the ballpoint pen she uses to take notes at press conferences—a Jetstream—has become a topic of conversation.

It is unusual for a politician to generate such a 'fan phenomenon'.
However, this is not merely a materialistic resonance. Perhaps it is, rather, an empathy for the 'way of life' reflected in the existence of Takaichi.

In a certain YouTube dialogue, Ruri Miura offered an interesting analysis.
'Takaichi is not an ideologue, but a rationalist.' She pointed out that conservative actions like visiting Yasukuni Shrine are merely 'material' to mobilize supporters, and that her true interest lies in pragmatic policies such as economic security and the strengthening of state authority.

Furthermore, Miura sounds this alarm:
' There is a danger that this 'material' will become 'the norm'.' In other words, the performance used to gain support will eventually constrain the person herself, blurring the line between conviction and acting.

However, I would like to raise an objection to that. I feel a certain artificial coldness in the gaze of intellectuals who intentionally try to interpret the inner life of a politician named Sanae Takaichi as a
dual structure.

Is it not merely a 'convenience' on the part of the observer to distinguish between strategy and passion, calculation and emotion in her words and actions?
Within Takaichi, those two are inseparably linked.

What drives her is a very simple and 'I want to reclaim a dignified Japan' tenacious will. That sentiment sometimes takes the form of a Yasukuni visit, or appears as economic security policy.
Though the outward appearance differs, the motive is one.

I think that Sanae Takaichi is a 'samurai' before she is a 'politician'. Recalling her words about being raised while being read the Imperial Rescript on Education, that spiritual background makes sense. Keeping her convictions in her heart, disciplining herself, and never breaking her fighting stance—that 'dignity' strikes a chord in people's hearts.

The phenomenon now called 'Sana-katsu' is not merely fashion or idolization.
What people are sensing is a 'dignified beauty' that has long been missing from the political arena.
Those who have found it in Takaichi's figure are trying to be dignified themselves.

Sana-katsu might be a quiet movement of resonance for modern people to regain the pride they have nearly lost.