Toru Hashimoto is a Japanese politician and lawyer who served as the mayor of Osaka from 2011 to 2015. He is known for his outspoken views and efforts to reform local government. Hashimoto gained national attention for his role in the Japan Restoration Party, which he co-founded in 2012, aiming to revitalize Japan's economy and political landscape. Before his political career, Hashimoto was a successful lawyer and gained fame as a television personality. He has been involved in various controversies, particularly regarding his comments on historical issues and Japan's wartime actions. Despite this, he remains a significant figure in Japanese politics.