“Tell Me What Defines a Lover”: Shinji Ishimaru Gives a Very Shinji-Like Answer to the Overnight Stay Report

He also appeared on a dating reality show

Shinji Ishimaru, 44, former mayor of Akitakata and a major talking point in the 2024 Tokyo gubernatorial election, now appears to be approaching a time of decision both in his private life and political activities.

In late August, “FRIDAY” caught Ishimaru walking affectionately through Tokyo with a beautiful woman in her late 30s who resembles First Summer Uika after an event held in the capital. After finishing a post-event gathering with staff, the two got into a taxi alone and headed to the designer apartment Ishimaru uses as his base in Tokyo. They then spent the night together, remaining there until shortly after noon the following day.

“This woman is a former administrative staff member of ‘Reiwa no Michi,’ which Ishimaru previously headed, and since Ishimaru stepped down as its representative last September, she has been working as his personal secretary. She is cheerful and considerate, and was well-liked within the office as well.” (Political insider)

She can truly be described as his closest partner in both his personal and professional life. Ishimaru, meanwhile, appeared as “Shinji” on the dating reality show “Renai Byoin (Love Hospital),” which aired on ABEMA in April this year. His extremely awkward behavior led viewers to describe him as someone who complicates romance, and he failed to form a couple on the show.

A major decision beyond romance

Yet in the real world, it appears that he had the solid support of an ultimate partner. More than anything, however, it was Ishimaru’s answer to the interview that became a major talking point.

“Are the two of you lovers?”

In response to this straightforward question, Ishimaru replied:

“First, could you please tell me the definition of a lover?”

This is the style that drew attention during the special broadcast covering the Tokyo gubernatorial election results, in which he does not directly answer the other person’s question and instead first questions the definition—commonly known as the “Ishimaru formula.”

Even when questioned about his romantic relationship, this unwavering response was overflowing with the unmistakable “Shinji-ness” that lived up to expectations, and it has also become a topic of discussion on social media.

Ishimaru went on to say:

“She is one of the people I have a professional relationship with and can trust.”

He did not deny the nature of their relationship itself. Behind his evasive wording, a special degree of trust and feeling toward her seems to shine through.

Ishimaru has been attracting attention for various aspects of his private life, but politically, he is also approaching a major decision.

“There has been speculation that Ishimaru may run in the Fukuoka mayoral election scheduled for November this year. If he wins an election that is attracting considerable nationwide attention, including over allegations of money changing hands involving the Fukuoka Prefectural Assembly, his political presence would increase significantly.” (National newspaper political reporter)

Alongside his “Shinji-like” behavior and the future of his romance, Ishimaru is also facing an impending political decision. There is likely to be plenty more to watch.

【YouTube】On “FRIDAY TV’s” “Entertainment Reporters Channel,” active entertainment reporters provide an in-depth look at the reality behind Ishimaru Shinji’s romance, titled “With a Beautiful Woman Who Resembles Uika!? The Truth Behind the Report of Shinji Ishimaru’s ‘Overnight Stay,’” including the identity of the beautiful woman who resembles Uika, as well as Ishimaru’s characteristically “Ishimaru-like” response when approached by this magazine.