A data holding device comprises a loop structure part (LOOP) that holds data by use of logic gates connected in a loop (e.g., inverters INV3 and INV4 of FIG. 1); a nonvolatile storage part (CL1a, CL1b, CL2a, CL2b, Q1a, Q1b, Q2a and Q2b) that utilizes the hysteresis characteristic of a ferroelectric element to store, in a nonvolatile manner, the data held in the loop structure part (LOOP); and a circuit isolating part (MUX1, MUX2, INV6, INV7, SW3 and SW4) that electrically isolates the loop structure part (LOOP) from the nonvolatile storage part.