Mac Akasaka Hopes to Smile His Way to Japan's Lower House

Mac Akasaka is one of Japan's most colorful candidates this year. Hoping for a seat in the lower house, but lacking the support of any major political party, he works his way into the public's consciousness using dance, music and most importantly, a smile.
Born Makoto Tonami, the 58-year-old is the chairman of the "Smile Therapy Association Foundation." Formerly of the Itochu Corporation, he is the sole candidate of the "Japan Smile Party." Akasaka has called for the dissolution of Japan's Self Defense Forces and a lowering of the voting age.
He believes these measures will help bring about an increase in happiness in Japan's population.
Akasaka is a frequent sight in Tokyo's famed Shibuya Crossing, where he attracts crowds of people who stop to take photos of the unusual candidate as he shakes his tambourine and maracas from the sunroof of his white Rolls-Royce automobile.
He is seen here, campaigning in Tokyo's Akasaka district.

Mac Akasaka is one of Japan's most colorful candidates this year. Hoping for a seat in the lower house, but lacking the support of any major political party, he works his way into the public's consciousness using dance, music and most importantly, a smile.
Born Makoto Tonami, the 58-year-old is the chairman of the "Smile Therapy Association Foundation." Formerly of the Itochu Corporation, he is the sole candidate of the "Japan Smile Party." Akasaka has called for the dissolution of Japan's Self Defense Forces and a lowering of the voting age.
He believes these measures will help bring about an increase in happiness in Japan's population.
Akasaka is a frequent sight in Tokyo's famed Shibuya Crossing, where he attracts crowds of people who stop to take photos of the unusual candidate as he shakes his tambourine and maracas from the sunroof of his white Rolls-Royce automobile.
He is seen here, campaigning in Tokyo's Akasaka district.