Photo/Illutration Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, right, meets with local business leaders in Maebashi on June 7. (Pool)

Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba sparked controversy on June 7 during a visit to Maebashi, by making remarks that some interpreted as stereotyping the region and its residents, particularly women.

At a meeting with local business leaders, Ishiba remarked that the term “Northern Kanto,” referring to the region north of Tokyo, might sound somewhat intimidating to people from western Japan like himself.

“When we hear ‘Gunma Prefecture,’ we imagine there might be a lot of scary people,” he said. “Women seem strong here, too, and it can feel a bit overwhelming.”

The comments quickly drew attention, prompting questions from reporters following the event.

Ishiba moved to clarify his intentions, saying his remarks were rooted in common regional sayings and cultural impressions rather than prejudice.

Ishiba explained, referring to the well-known local phrase “kakaa denka to karakkaze”—which translates roughly to “strong wives and dry winds.”

“Everyone knows that expression,” Ishiba said. “It means women here are resilient and play a central role in supporting their communities.”

He said he meant no offense, emphasizing that he was trying to highlight the deep sense of loyalty and human warmth in the region.

Ishiba was in the prefectural capital of Gunma to learn more about community-led urban development initiatives, as part of his government’s key policy of revitalizing regional economies.

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