Chizuko Obuchi

Chizuko Obuchi (born August 16, 1940) is a Japanese essayist, political activist, and environmental conservation advocate. She is from Nakanojo Town, Agatsuma District, Gunma Prefecture. Her highest educational background is graduation from Gunma Prefectural Agatsuma High School, after which she attended a culinary school in Maebashi City, Gunma Prefecture.

In her family, her husband is Keizo Obuchi, the 84th Prime Minister of Japan. Her father was Taro Ohno, the former president of Ohno Lumber. She has three children: her eldest son, and two daughters—Akiko (who later became a graphic designer) and Yuko (who later became a member of the House of Representatives).

She took an interest in greening projects, especially dedicating efforts to China's greening initiatives. In 2000, she attended the Kyushu-Okinawa Summit. Additionally, in 2002, she participated in the Japan-China Youth Greening Forum alongside Hirobumi Noda and Toshihiro Niko, and held talks with Chinese Vice President Hu Jintao.

From 2002 to 2023, she served as the head of the Gunma Prefectural Branch of the Omote Senke Urasenke School of Tea. Her successor is her daughter, Yuko Obuchi.

She married Keizo Obuchi in 1967, with Tomsaburo Hashimoto acting as the go-between. Her eldest daughter, Akiko, later became a graphic designer. Her second daughter, Yuko, was elected to the House of Representatives. She also has a son.

Her published works include "The Truth About My Husband, Keizo Obuchi's 'Hospital Room'—An Exclusive Account" (Bungei Shunju, July 2000 issue), a co-authored book with Hiroko Sato titled "Hana—Reflections on Hiroko Sato" (Asahi Culture Center, 1993), and an introduction she wrote for "Nagatacho Barbershop Political Talk" (Shinchosha, 2000).

In 2002, she received the International Cooperation Special Award for her "Mother River Protection Movement."