Japan PM Says She Survives on ‘Zero to Three Hours’ a Night
Japan’s prime minister has drawn concern after revealing she sleeps as little as zero to three hours a night.
24 July 2026
TOKYO: Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has sparked nationwide debate after revealing that she routinely survives on zero to three hours of sleep per night.
In a candid post on X, Takaichi described working through weekends on official budget and growth-policy documents, while also handling domestic chores like washing dishes and ironing her clothes. She shared that getting five hours of sleep during the Marine Day national holiday felt like a rare luxury.
Her disclosure highlighted the intense physical demands of Japan's top political office. While supporters commend her tireless work ethic, critics and health professionals express concern over the risks of extreme sleep deprivation and impaired cognitive judgment.
Opposition leaders questioned whether aides provide sufficient support to ensure clear decision-making. The post has reignited broader conversations regarding Japan's notorious culture of extreme overwork and chronic burnout.
