As Japan nears its elections for the national upper house, a fresh issue has surfaced prominently in political discussions: the involvement and status of non-Japanese nationals within Japanese society. Traditionally known for its conservative views on immigration, this topic is now under intense examination and political debate. Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba has unveiled a government group designed to manage the intricate relationship between Japan’s citizens and its expanding foreign community.
A state project launched at an opportune moment
The newly introduced program, which is formally named the Office for Fostering a Society of Harmonious Coexistence with Foreign Nationals, was revealed only a few days before the electorate goes to vote. This schedule is intentional. As populist views are becoming more influential and marginal parties are emphasizing immigration in their campaigns, the authorities seem to be addressing the increasing public conversation focused on national identity and economic pressure.
Prime Minister Ishiba framed the office as a central hub for coordinating policies that impact both citizens and foreign nationals. Although still in its early stages, the task force is expected to oversee areas such as immigration procedures, land purchases by non-citizens, and concerns over unpaid taxes or social insurance contributions. The government has also hinted at introducing tighter rules around medical debt, suggesting that individuals who owe significant healthcare bills could be denied visas or reentry.
This program is a segment of a larger strategy to tackle what the administration refers to as the «misuse» of government resources by certain foreign individuals. Nevertheless, specifics regarding implementation are unclear, prompting speculation about the potential impact on Japan’s global relations and its attractiveness as a location for both talented professionals and visitors.
Surge in tourism and cultural tension
Although foreigners constitute merely about 3% of Japan’s 120 million inhabitants, the noticeable presence of international visitors and employees has increased considerably in recent times. Over the past ten years, the number of foreign residents rose from 2.2 million to almost 3.8 million. The surge in tourism following the pandemic has heightened this perception. In just the first half of 2025, more than 21 million tourists traveled to the country, establishing a new milestone.
This influx has led to visible tension in certain communities, particularly in tourist-heavy regions. Complaints from residents about overcrowding, disrespectful behavior, and strains on local resources have become increasingly common. In some areas, authorities have gone so far as to erect barriers to block popular photo spots, including a controversial screen placed to obscure views of Mount Fuji after local outcry over congestion and litter.
Even in areas renowned for their welcoming nature, like hot spring resorts, the increase in tourists has stirred worries among locals about the exhaustion of resources and the wear and tear on infrastructure. Moreover, some residents highlight the rising expenses of necessities such as rice and housing, which they blame—whether correctly or not—on international demand and economic influences from outside.
Jobs and public amenities under examination
Another concern being raised in the lead-up to the election involves access to public services and job opportunities. Some Japanese citizens feel that foreign workers are crowding out domestic job seekers or receiving disproportionate access to welfare programs. Though these claims are often anecdotal, they are fueling populist rhetoric that appeals to voters feeling left behind in an evolving economy.
A Tokyo retiree, speaking anonymously, expressed skepticism about the cultural compatibility of foreign workers, stating that differing traditions make coexistence difficult. Meanwhile, younger voices, like that of a 23-year-old office worker, echoed the belief that government support should prioritize citizens over non-nationals.
These opinions, although not necessarily backed by evidence, are gaining traction due to new political players. The Sanseito party, a conservative nationalist organization, has drawn notice with its agenda focusing on Japanese priorities. Even though they may not capture a dominant share, Sanseito has the potential to sway the power dynamics by appealing to disenchanted voters from major parties, such as the governing Liberal Democratic Party (LDP).
Distinguishing between appearance and truth
In the midst of the growing discussion, specialists warn that a significant portion of the ongoing dialogue is rooted more in perception than in actual realities. As per statistics from the Ministry of Justice, individuals from abroad constituted slightly over 5% of all arrests in 2023—covering both tourists and inhabitants. Moreover, Japan’s general crime rate has consistently dropped over the last twenty years, a pattern that goes against common fears about worsening public security.
Sociologists like Shunsuke Tanabe from Waseda University argue that increased visibility of foreigners has led to cognitive bias, causing some to mistakenly link demographic change with rising insecurity. He warns that such assumptions are easily exploited during election campaigns, especially in the digital age where misinformation spreads rapidly.
Tanabe also notes that social media has amplified divisive narratives, making it easier for parties with anti-immigration platforms to gain traction. The result is a political environment where symbolic gestures—like establishing a new office—may carry more weight than substantive policy solutions.
Political strategies with lasting effects
The stakes for Prime Minister Ishiba and the LDP are high. After losing their majority in the lower house last year, another poor showing in the upper house vote could intensify internal pressure on Ishiba to resign. With Sanseito projected to secure several seats, every measure to retain public confidence becomes crucial.
Some political analysts believe the creation of the new task force is a strategic effort to seem attentive to voter issues while avoiding significant changes to the country’s immigration system. Jeffrey Hall, a lecturer specializing in Japanese studies at Kanda University, characterized the initiative as a strategic method to “express authority” on a delicate subject. Nevertheless, he cautioned that excessively strict monitoring or limitations on foreign nationals might have adverse economic repercussions.
“If Japan creates an environment where foreign workers feel unwelcome or unfairly targeted, it risks undermining its own labor force goals,” Hall said. “In a country where the working-age population is shrinking, the need for international talent is not optional—it’s essential.”
A demographic reality that can’t be ignored
Japan’s demographic crisis remains one of the most pressing issues facing its society and economy. The country’s birth rate dropped to a record low of 1.15 in 2024, far below the replacement rate of 2.1 needed to maintain population stability without immigration. With life expectancy among the highest in the world, the result is an aging society increasingly reliant on younger workers—many of whom must come from abroad.
To tackle worker shortages, Japan has been broadening its visa initiatives, specifically targeting «specialized skilled workers» in sectors such as healthcare, construction, hospitality, and aviation. By October 2024, the foreign workforce reached a record 2.3 million, highlighting continuous attempts to occupy critical positions that cannot be fulfilled by Japanese employees alone.
Ishiba acknowledged this reality during the announcement of the new task force, stressing that Japan must remain open to global talent and tourism to secure long-term growth. “To navigate the challenges posed by a declining birthrate and an aging society, we must integrate the energy of the global community,” he said.
Moving forward
As the election draws closer, the balance between public sentiment and economic necessity will continue to shape Japan’s policies toward foreign nationals. While concerns about cultural integration and resource sharing deserve thoughtful attention, experts emphasize the need for data-driven policy, not reactionary measures driven by populist fear.
Japan stands at a crossroads—caught between its traditions of cultural homogeneity and the imperatives of an interconnected world. Whether the new task force will evolve into a constructive force for integration or simply serve as an election-season symbol remains to be seen. Either way, the decisions made now will have profound implications for Japan’s future as both a global economic power and a multicultural society.
