Happiness Realization Party

(2009-)

The Happiness Realization Party (HRP) was established in May 2009 by Ryūhō Ōkawa (1956-2023), CEO and founder of the Happy Science religious organization. The Science of Happiness was established in 1986 by Ōkawa. He claimed to have the ability to communicate with the dead via channeling and talk about their spiritual messages (reigen). Ōkawa published a collection of spiritual messages, which he claimed he received from famous historical figures such as Nichiren and Jesus Christ.

The HRP identifies as conservative and anti-communist. According to its manifesto, the HRP's platform includes amending Article 9 to grant national self-defense, introducing a presidential system of government, and political and educational reform based on religion. On their website, HRP shares information about the party and its policies, members, elections, and news. 

When the Happiness Realization Party was formed in 2009, the party published the “New Constitution of Japan: A Tentative Plan,” which was composed of 17 articles (a preamble and 16 articles). This new constitution was perceived as being modeled on Prince Shōtoku’s Seventeen-Article Constitution. The main distinguishing features of this draft are the establishment of a presidential system, the confirmation of basic human rights of the Japanese people as “children of the kami and Buddhas” (shinbutsu no ko), and the formation of a Self-Defense Army (Bōeigun).