Shigeru Ishiba, the newly elected leader of Japan’s Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and set to become the nation’s next prime minister, is a man of many contrasts. While he is often seen with a serious, contemplative demeanor, especially in political circles, there is another side to the 67-year-old leader that has earned him the affectionate title of “otaku” in Japanese media—a person deeply passionate about niche hobbies. Ishiba’s obsessions? Plastic miniature models, trains, and ramen noodles.
His office, which could easily pass for a political library with its towering stacks of books on history and governance, is also home to his collection of meticulously crafted plastic models. These aren’t just idle toys for Ishiba—they’re a key part of his diplomatic toolkit. As Japan’s former defense minister in 2007-2008, he often used these models to break the ice in high-stakes meetings. In one instance, he gifted a plastic replica of a U.S. P3 patrol plane to an American ambassador, a thoughtful gesture that brought a smile to his guest’s face. He’s even spent all night assembling a Russian aircraft carrier model ahead of a meeting with the Russian Minister of Defense, demonstrating his dedication not just to his craft, but also to creating meaningful diplomatic connections.
Ishiba’s fascination with transportation doesn’t end with models. He’s an ardent train enthusiast, a passion well-documented on his Instagram account. Having taken the overnight sleeper train between Tokyo and his home constituency in Tottori more than a thousand times, he vividly recalls his first ride on Japan’s famous Hikari bullet train, describing the experience as nothing short of magical. “The super express! Their shining interior and unprecedented style… The excitement I had will never fade. It was wonderful,” he shared with his followers.
However, trains and plastic models are only part of the story. Ishiba is also the head of a 50-member parliamentary group dedicated to ramen, a beloved staple of Japanese cuisine. Formed in 2022, the “Ramen Parliamentary Group” seeks to explore and celebrate this iconic dish, and Ishiba is as passionate about ramen as he is about his other hobbies. In a recent YouTube video, he delved into the different flavors produced by imported versus locally grown wheat in ramen noodles, recalling his early years of enjoying Nissin Foods’ Demae Iccho and Chicken Ramen during his high school entrance exam preparations.
As he steps into the role of Japan’s prime minister, Ishiba faces significant challenges, from navigating rising living costs to managing security tensions in East Asia. His plate will be full, leaving little time for his beloved hobbies. Yet, these interests—whether it’s assembling a plastic model late into the night or reminiscing about his first bullet train ride—offer a glimpse into the more human, relatable side of Japan’s next leader. And while his responsibilities may take precedence, it’s clear that Ishiba’s passion for plastic models, trains, and ramen will remain close to his heart.
Shigeru Ishiba’s unique blend of political acumen and heartfelt hobbies paints a picture of a leader who understands both the serious and the simple joys of life—a quality that may serve him well as he takes on the helm of Japan.