山中竹春

Takeharu Yamanaka is a Japanese politician, scientist, and data scientist currently serving as the Mayor of Yokohama. Before entering politics, he held academic positions including professor at the Yokohama City University School of Medicine and special vice president of the university, specializing in data science and medical research. Elected in 2021 and re-elected in 2025, his administration has focused on child-rearing support, including the implementation of free medical care for children and universal school lunches. He is also noted for his decision to withdraw Yokohama from the Integrated Resort (IR) casino project and his proactive support for Ukrainian refugees following the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Yamanaka's policy approach emphasizes data-driven decision-making and social welfare expansion.