Asako Hara

Asa Hara (April 1871 – March 2, 1923) was a Japanese politician and the wife of the Prime Minister. She was the spouse of the 19th Prime Minister, Kei Hara. She was born in Iwayado Town, Esashi District, Iwate Prefecture (now Oshu City).

Asa Hara was born in 1871 (Meiji 4) in Iwayado Town, Esashi District, Iwate Prefecture. Her father was Jitaro Kanno. She was raised in a family environment of poverty from a young age. After reaching adulthood, she worked as a geisha at Kōyōkan in Karasumori, Tokyo.

In 1896 (Meiji 29), Asa Hara met Ritsu, the mother of Kei Hara, and after some interactions, she began to visit the Hara household. In 1908 (Meiji 41), she officially married Kei Hara. It is noted that, prior to their marriage, Kei Hara had a previous wife named Sadako, from whom she divorced in 1905 (Meiji 38).

Asa Hara played an important role in Kei Hara’s political career and life. Kei Hara was politically active at the time and later became Japan’s Prime Minister. Upon his appointment, Asa Hara supported him in her role as his wife, at the forefront of the nation.

On March 2, 1923 (Taisho 12), Asa Hara died from pneumonia while recuperating from a cold. She was 51 years old. After her death, her husband Kei Hara held her funeral in Morioka City and faithfully carried out her will.

Detailed records of her life include her birthplace, family structure, the circumstances leading to her marriage, her role as the Prime Minister’s wife, and the events surrounding her death.