Japan's House of Representatives was officially dissolved on January 23, 2026, launching the country into campaign mode ahead of the February 8 election. For foreign residents in Japan, this election represents a significant political event that will shape the country's policies and governance for the coming years, even though most expats cannot vote. According to NHK, the official campaign period will begin on January 27, with party leaders and candidates already engaging in what is being called the "de facto campaign period" since the dissolution. On January 24, party leaders participated in televised debates discussing economic growth strategies and measures to address rising prices—issues that directly impact all residents of Japan, including the foreign community. The election follows Prime Minister Takahashi's decision to dissolve the lower house, with the ruling coalition seeking public approval to continue governing. Opposition parties have criticized the dissolution as lacking clear justification, setting the stage for heated political debates over the next two weeks. The key issues being discussed include economic policy, inflation countermeasures, and the government's overall direction. Participation in this election has expanded significantly, with various political parties fielding substantial numbers of candidates. According to Livedoor News, the Sanseito party (参政党) announced plans to field approximately 190 candidates nationwide, with party leader Kamiya Sosuke conducting street speeches in Yokohama on January 24. This represents one of many parties competing for the 465 seats in the House of Representatives. For foreign residents, while voting rights in national elections are not available to non-citizens, this election will have practical implications. The winning party or coalition will determine policies affecting labor regulations, taxation, social services, and immigration—all areas that directly impact expats living and working in Japan. Economic policies addressing inflation are particularly relevant, as rising prices affect everyone's cost of living regardless of nationality. The campaign period has not been without logistical challenges. In an unusual development, the Hokkaido Election Management Committee announced on January 24 that it had dispatched ballot papers to municipalities but could not complete printing in time, requiring some materials to be sent later, according to NHK. This highlights the massive organizational effort required to conduct national elections in Japan. Expats should expect to see increased political activity over the coming weeks. Street speeches, campaign vehicles with loudspeakers, and political advertisements will become commonplace across Japan's cities and towns. These activities are legal and regulated under Japanese election law, which permits campaigning only during the official period and imposes strict rules on campaign methods. While non-citizens cannot vote in national elections, foreign residents with permanent residency status may be eligible to vote in some local elections, depending on municipal regulations. However, the House of Representatives election is a national matter restricted to Japanese citizens aged 18 and above. The election results on February 8 will determine Japan's political direction and could result in policy shifts affecting foreign workers, students, and long-term residents. Issues such as labor market reforms, economic stimulus measures, and social welfare policies debated during this campaign will shape the legislative agenda for years to come. For expats interested in understanding Japanese politics and society, this election offers valuable insights into the country's democratic processes and policy priorities. While unable to cast ballots themselves, foreign residents can follow the debates and understand the political landscape of their host country, preparing for potential policy changes that may affect their daily lives and long-term plans in Japan.