Japan Has an Award for the Politician Who Looks Good in Glasses
You might not believe it, but Japan actually has an award called the Best Politician in Glasses! Of course, this kind of recognition sparked debate online—but most comments focused on how elegant the winner looked in glasses rather than anything else.
The award was given to Japan’s Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, shortly before his retirement. The event drew attention not only for the prize itself, but also for Ishiba’s charisma and style when wearing glasses—proving that politics and fashion can indeed go hand in hand.
While Ishiba’s political legacy is up for debate—especially regarding his management during a time of rising inflation in basic goods like rice—there’s one thing everyone agrees on: he really knows how to wear glasses with style.
On October 1st, Ishiba was honored with Japan’s Best Politician in Glasses Award in the Politics category, during a ceremony held in Ariake, Tokyo. The event also featured winners from other fields, such as actress Fumino Kimura, economist Yusuke Narita, and VTuber Hayato Kagami.
During his acceptance speech, Ishiba said:
“This is an unexpected award. Sometimes, good things happen in life.”
He also showcased several pairs of glasses he received as part of the prize, including some “floating” models.
Ishiba explained that his use of glasses is intentional—he switches between “Normal Mode” and “Glasses Mode,” saying:
“I wear glasses to look less intimidating, even just a little. They convey a sense of softness and seriousness.”
This strategic approach shows how style can complement a political image without sacrificing formality.
The Best Politician in Glasses Award is part of a growing trend in Japan that celebrates public figures for their sense of style and fashion accessories, similar to the famous Best Jeanist Awards, which highlight celebrities who look great in jeans. These events draw public and media attention, making figures like Ishiba even more talked about online.
During the ceremony, spectators were surprised to see the usually serious Prime Minister wearing sunglasses—some even compared him to manga characters like Hancho from Kaiji. Reactions included:
“He really knows how to wear glasses.”
“Looks like a fake magician.”
“Japanese people always seem happier after retirement.”
“He’s grown a lot professionally.”
“Not gonna lie, he looks good in glasses.”
Only in Japan, right?