- Japan's Lower House election campaign begins today, January 27, 2026.
- All 465 seats in the Lower House are being contested, with a majority requiring 233 seats.
- Voters will head to the polls on February 8 to choose their next government, with rising prices and security policies expected to be key campaign issues.

A: Hey! Did you hear about the news?

B: No, what happened?

A: There’s an election coming up! For the Lower House.

B: Oh, really? When is it?

A: February 8th! It’s officially election season now. Campaigns start soon.

A: Takaichi Sanae, the Prime Minister, is running too! It’s her first election as Prime Minister.

B: Wow, that’s big news! When was the last election?

A: It was back in late 2024. All 465 seats are open!

B: That’s a lot of seats! How does it work?

A: Some are for individual districts, and some are decided by how many votes parties get overall.

A: You need 233 seats to win a majority.

B: So, what are they talking about in their campaigns?

A: Mostly about the rising prices. They're probably talking about the consumption tax, too.

B: Yeah, everything is getting more expensive! What else?

A: Also, foreign policy and security stuff. Pretty important topics.

B: The campaign is only 12 days long? That’s quick!

A: Exactly! Gotta get ready to vote then!