Chinese state media outlets quickly reported Sanae Takaichi's victory in Japan's LDP leadership election, framing it with clear apprehension and labeling her political stance as dangerously conservative.

Warnings from State Media

Outlets like CCTV and China News Network described Takaichi as "extremely right-leaning" and highlighted her past visits to Yasukuni Shrine while a cabinet minister. They also drew parallels to the late Shinzo Abe, referring to her as the 'female version of Abe' in Japanese media reports.

Social Media Echoes Official Distrust

The concern was mirrored on Chinese social media platform Weibo, where posts describing Takaichi as an "ultra-rightist" were prominent. This coordinated messaging reflects official unease about a potential sharp turn in Japan's China policy.

A Shift from the 'Moderate Ishiba's Era?

Chinese leadership had viewed the outgoing Yoshimi Ishihara administration as relatively moderate and had been working to stabilize relations, including reinstating visa-free short-term stays for Japanese citizens. Takaichi's ascent, with her known hawkish views on defense and historical issues, signals the potential end of this brief thaw, putting Beijing on high alert for a more confrontational relationship.