Key Facts
• Ibaraki gubernatorial election announced on August 21, 2025.
• Incumbent Kazuhiko Oigawa (61) seeks third term, supported by LDP, Komeito, DPFP.
• Challengers: Shigehiro Tanaka (78), ex-professor, backed by JCP; Masahiko Uchida (51), ex-security employee.
• Campaign period runs until September 7, 2025, election day.
• Oigawa emphasizes economic growth, content industry promotion.
• Tanaka advocates for $10 minimum wage, SME support, nuclear plant decommissioning.
• Uchida focuses on revising public servant nationality rules, solar facility reforms.
• 2,366,332 eligible voters; 43 of 44 municipalities shorten voting hours.
• Early voting starts August 22 at 170 locations across Ibaraki.
Summary
The 2025 Ibaraki gubernatorial election officially began on August 21, with incumbent Kazuhiko Oigawa seeking a third term against two challengers: Shigehiro Tanaka, a former professor, and Masahiko Uchida, a former security company employee. Oigawa, supported by major political parties, highlights his achievements in economic growth and new initiatives like content industry promotion. Tanaka focuses on social issues, including raising the minimum wage and decommissioning a nuclear plant, while Uchida addresses public servant nationality rules and solar energy reforms. With 2.37 million eligible voters, the election will conclude on September 7, 2025, with early voting available from August 22. Campaigns are adapting to the summer heat by reducing outdoor speeches and leveraging social media to reach diverse demographics.
