Kotoe Hashimoto, a writer and former political candidate, recently went viral after sharing the joyful news of her seventh child's birth on X, formerly Twitter, on August 29. Hashimoto's post, which included a touching photo of her and the newborn, has garnered over 27 million views.
Public Reaction and Cultural Context
I believe that now is the time for Japanese women to have children. The rise and fall of our nation depends on the active role of women.
Kotoe Hashimoto, Writer and Former Political Candidate
- Hashimoto's post received 10,800 likes on Facebook.
- She expressed gratitude towards the medical staff who assisted her.
Hashimoto's announcement comes at a critical time for Japan, which is facing a significant demographic crisis. The country's total fertility rate hit a record low of 1.14 in 2025, according to the Welfare Ministry.
In her follow-up post, Hashimoto thanked her supporters and emphasized the importance of childbirth in Japan’s future. Her sentiments struck a chord with many, with some users calling her a 'national treasure' for her contribution to the country’s population.
The ongoing decline in births highlights a broader trend in Japan, where the government has struggled for years to encourage families to have more children. Despite initiatives aimed at boosting the birth rate, the nation continues to experience a demographic shift that poses challenges for its economy and social structure.
As Japan continues to grapple with its low birth rate, Hashimoto's experience may provide a fresh perspective on the cultural significance of family and child-rearing in a rapidly changing society.