Politics · Japan · 7 hrs ago
Record 13 candidates enter Fukuoka mayoral race
A record 13 newcomers are running for mayor of Fukuoka, Japan.
The election was officially announced on November 1.
Current mayor Soichiro Takashima plans to leave after 16 years in office, spanning four terms, and has not endorsed a successor.
Fukuoka has the highest population growth rate among Japan’s designated cities, according to the report.
Its growth comes with challenges, including crowded subway trains.
The large number of candidates could lead to a runoff election, though the report does not say whether one will happen.
The race will decide who leads the city as it manages growth and its related problems.
A record 13 newcomers entered the Fukuoka mayoral race on Nov. 1.
The election will decide who leads a city with Japan’s highest population growth rate among designated cities.
Fukuoka also faces challenges including crowded subway trains.
The race could result in a rerun election, the Nikkei reported.
Mayor Soichiro Takashima said in late August that he would leave office after four terms and 16 years.
- Who
- Thirteen newcomers entered the race. The incumbent, Soichiro Takashima, has said he will leave office.
- What
- The Fukuoka mayoral election has a record 13 candidates.
- When
- Candidates entered the race on Nov. 1, 2026.
- Where
- Fukuoka, Japan.
- Why
- The election will determine the city’s direction as it continues to grow and faces challenges such as crowded subway trains.
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
Mayor Soichiro Takashima said he would leave office after four terms and 16 years.
A record 13 newcomers entered the Fukuoka mayoral race.
- Candidates
- 13 newcomers
- Candidate record
- Highest number in the Fukuoka mayoral race
- Mayor
- Soichiro Takashima
- Takashima’s tenure
- Four terms and 16 years
- City challenge
- Crowded subway trains