It took longer than expected, but Japan has finally appointed its first female prime minister.

In the world of male-dominated politics, Sanae Takaichi has broken through an incredibly tough glass ceiling.

Women make up just 16 per cent of the lower house seats in parliament, known as the Diet, and Japan routinely ranks as one of the worst countries for gender equality.

But despite the historic rise, Ms Takaichi's moment as the first female PM has been overshadowed and left many questioning if it's a win for women.

Most local media attention has focused on how she plans to tackle cost-of-living pressures, with flat wages, inflation and a weak yen all hurting households.

Her shot at becoming prime minister was also suddenly thrown into doubt despite winning the leadership of the rulin

See Full Page