Takaichi took office as Japan's first female prime minister in October and called the snap election to capitalize on an early surge in popularity.
She looks set to receive a strong mandate to govern the country. The traditionally dominant Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) is expected to win many more seats in the lower house of parliament, probably around 300, according to public broadcaster NHK's exit polls and calculations. A majority requires only 233 seats.
With the estimated new mandate distribution, the LDP will be able to govern alone in the future.
64-year-old Sanae Takaichi is a member of the LDP's more conservative faction.
