[4][5] Kishimoto became interested in Japanese politics while working at the Transnational Institute, a non-profit organisation in Amsterdam, and attracted a grass-roots following with online debates during the COVID-19 pandemic.

She was unsure of moving back to Japan permanently as she felt it would disrupt her children's schooling, but agreed to do so in April 2022 in order to campaign for mayor.

[1] Kishimoto has voiced concern about the lack of gender diversity in Japanese politics, believing it to be a serious detriment to the country.

She has faced criticism from some male subordinates over her gender, her lack of established political experience, and for living outside Japan for several years.

Along with other female Japanese politicians, she started the website Harassment Consultation Centre for Women in Politics.