Wacky Real-Life Joker Brings Antics to Tokyo's Governor Race

Wacky real-life joker Yusuke Kawai is bringing all the antics to Tokyo's governor's race.

Known as the "Japanese Joker," Kawai is adding splash, craziness, and controversy to this year's election.

The controversy stems from his interesting approach to campaign posters.

In one promotional poster, Kawai is dressed like the character from The Mask and surrounded by three women as part of a message to promote polygamy in Japan to help solve the country's declining birth rate.

However, the advertisement featuring the almost-naked gyaru model, Miu Sakurai, which aims to "promote the importance of freedom of expression," is the most damning.

Locals were particularly upset with this stunt, as children could easily see these images around the city.

Police warned Kawai that he was walking a thin line along Tokyo's anti-nuisance ordinance, prompting the candidate to take them down quickly.

He made headlines back in 2021 during the Chiba gubernatorial election when he also ran for governor dressed as the Joker, according to the Tokyo Weekender.

While the Tokyo gubernatorial election has become known for its eccentric candidates throughout the years, including prolific inventor Dr. Nakamats, late rock star Yuya Uchida, and naked nationalist Teruki Goto, the "Japanese Joker" is certainly in a league of his own.

Japan's largest broadcaster, NHK, is required to give airtime to candidates running for governor of Tokyo.

Kawai can be seen with a sign language interpreter during his segment below:

Tags

Tokyo, Candidate, Election, Japan