10/07/2025
🔔 Japan just broke another longevity record. The country now has 99,763 people who are 100 years old or older, according to the health ministry’s latest report. That’s nearly 100,000 centenarians — and it’s the 55th straight year the number has gone up.
What’s even more striking is that women make up about 88% of that total. Experts say this isn’t surprising — Japan’s women consistently outlive men, thanks to a mix of healthy diets, strong community ties, and access to good healthcare.
The oldest person in the country right now is 114-year-old Shigeko Kagawa from Yamatokoriyama in Nara Prefecture. Meanwhile, the oldest man is 111-year-old Kiyotaka Mizuno from the seaside city of Iwata.
Japan has long been known for its incredible life expectancy, and it often tops the list of countries with the most super-seniors. Many researchers credit the Japanese lifestyle — simple meals packed with vegetables and fish, daily activity, and staying socially connected — as key reasons behind their longevity.
But while the numbers are inspiring, they also highlight a growing challenge: Japan’s population is aging fast, and its birth rate remains low. That means more centenarians to celebrate — but also more pressure on healthcare and support systems.
Still, reaching nearly 100,000 people over the age of 100 is nothing short of remarkable. For Japan, it’s not just a statistic — it’s a sign of resilience, tradition, and how much a healthy lifestyle can truly pay off.
