The Briefing Live from Tokyo: Osaka Expo reflections and Japan’s political shake-up
Oct 14, 2025
Martin Fackler, a seasoned journalist and author focused on Japan, shares insights live from Tokyo. He dives into his sabbatical project on the Fukushima disaster, highlighting the importance of perspective in storytelling. The conversation shifts to Japan's political landscape, exploring the potential for Sanae Takaichi as prime minister amidst rising right-wing sentiments. They also reflect on the Osaka Expo's significance, showcasing Japan's evolution towards soft power and global diplomacy, marking a transformative period for the nation.
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A Reporter On Sabbatical Writing Fukushima
- Martin Fackler is on sabbatical and writing a book on Fukushima that he's ~85% through.
- He has about 170,000 words and aims to finish by year-end.
Wait For Distance Before Documenting Crises
- Take time to research catastrophic events before writing their history to gain perspective.
- Distance helps interviewees and authors reflect and reveal clearer narratives.
LDP's Divisive Pivot Revealed
- Sanae Takaichi's candidacy exposed deep divisions within the LDP and Japanese politics.
- Her selection highlighted the party's pivot toward nationalist, online-savvy voters and miscalculation risks.