On September 13, 2025, Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare released figures that underscored a remarkable milestone in the nation’s history: the number of Japanese citizens aged 100 or older has reached an unprecedented 99,763. This achievement marks the 55th consecutive year that Japan has broken its own record for the number of centenarians, a testament to the country’s exceptional life expectancy and a reflection of its rapidly aging population. As the world marvels at Japan’s ability to foster longevity, the milestone also shines a spotlight on the challenges posed by an aging society, declining birth rates, and the delicate balance of sustaining a healthy, vibrant population.
A Nation of Longevity: Women Lead the Way
The latest data reveals that women make up approximately 88% of Japan’s centenarian population, a figure that highlights the gender disparity in extreme longevity. This trend is consistent with global patterns, as women tend to outlive men due to a combination of biological, behavioral, and social factors. In Japan, women’s longer life expectancy is often attributed to healthier lifestyles, lower rates of smoking and alcohol consumption compared to men, and a cultural emphasis on community and family roles that may contribute to emotional and physical well-being.
Among Japan’s centenarians, two individuals stand out as symbols of the nation’s extraordinary longevity. Shigeko Kagawa, a 114-year-old woman, holds the title of Japan’s oldest living person, while Kiyotaka Mizuno, aged 111, is the country’s oldest man. Their stories, though unique, reflect the broader trends that have enabled Japan to become a global leader in life expectancy. Kagawa, for instance, is said to attribute her long life to a diet rich in traditional Japanese foods, regular physical activity, and a strong sense of community. Mizuno, similarly, has spoken in past interviews about the importance of staying mentally active and maintaining close ties with family.
Japan’s centenarian population has grown steadily over the decades. In 1963, when the country first began tracking centenarians, there were just 153 individuals aged 100 or older. By 1981, the number had surpassed 1,000, and by 2012, it had reached 50,000. The latest figure of 99,763 represents a near-doubling of the centenarian population in just over a decade, a remarkable feat that underscores the effectiveness of Japan’s public health initiatives and cultural practices.
The Secrets to Japan’s Longevity
Japan’s status as the country with the world’s longest life expectancy—averaging 84.7 years for women and 81.6 years for men in 2024—is no accident. A combination of diet, lifestyle, healthcare, and cultural factors has created an environment where living to 100 is increasingly common. Researchers and public health experts point to several key elements that contribute to this phenomenon.
1. A Nutrient-Rich Diet
The traditional Japanese diet is often cited as a cornerstone of the country’s longevity. Rich in fish, vegetables, seaweed, soy products, and green tea, this diet is low in saturated fats and high in nutrients that promote heart health and reduce inflammation. Fish, a staple in Japanese cuisine, is a primary source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are linked to lower risks of cardiovascular disease and cognitive decline. The practice of “hara hachi bu,” or eating until one is 80% full, also plays a role in preventing obesity and related health issues. Japan’s obesity rate, at just 4.5%, is one of the lowest in the developed world, compared to rates as high as 30-40% in countries like the United States.
Public health campaigns have further reinforced healthy eating habits. In the 1970s, Japan launched initiatives to reduce salt intake, which was linked to high rates of hypertension and stroke. These efforts have paid off, with stroke mortality rates dropping significantly over the decades. The government’s promotion of balanced, low-sodium diets has become a model for other nations seeking to improve public health outcomes.
2. Active Lifestyles
Physical activity is deeply ingrained in Japanese culture, particularly among the elderly. Many older adults participate in daily walking, gardening, or group exercise programs such as “Radio Taiso,” a choreographed calisthenics routine broadcast on radio and television since 1928. Radio Taiso, originally developed to promote physical fitness among the general population, has become a cultural institution, with groups gathering in parks, community centers, and workplaces to perform the exercises together. These activities not only improve physical health but also foster social connections, which are critical for mental and emotional well-being.
Japan’s urban design also encourages an active lifestyle. Many cities are pedestrian-friendly, with extensive public transportation systems that reduce reliance on cars. For older adults, walking to local shops, shrines, or community centers is a daily ritual that keeps them physically active and socially engaged.
3. Universal Healthcare and Preventive Medicine
Japan’s universal healthcare system ensures that all citizens have access to affordable medical care, including regular check-ups, screenings, and treatments. Preventive medicine is a priority, with programs aimed at early detection of conditions such as cancer, diabetes, and heart disease. The government also provides subsidies for health screenings and vaccinations, making it easier for individuals to stay proactive about their health.
The emphasis on preventive care extends to mental health as well. Japan has made strides in addressing the mental health needs of its aging population, with community-based programs that encourage social interaction and provide support for conditions such as dementia. These efforts have helped reduce the stigma around mental health issues and ensure that older adults receive comprehensive care.
4. Cultural Values and Social Cohesion
Japanese culture places a high value on community, family, and intergenerational relationships, which contribute to emotional resilience and a sense of purpose. Many centenarians report that their connections with family and friends have been a key factor in their long lives. The concept of “ikigai,” or a sense of purpose, is often cited as a driving force behind Japan’s longevity. Whether it’s tending to a garden, teaching traditional crafts, or spending time with grandchildren, having a reason to get up each morning fosters mental and physical health.
Social cohesion is particularly strong in rural areas, where multigenerational households are still common. In regions like Okinawa, often referred to as a “blue zone” for its high concentration of centenarians, community-based activities and mutual support networks play a significant role in promoting longevity. Okinawans, for example, practice “moai,” a tradition of forming lifelong social groups that provide emotional and practical support.
The Challenges of an Aging Society
While Japan’s growing centenarian population is a cause for celebration, it also highlights the challenges of one of the world’s fastest-aging societies. With a fertility rate of just 1.26 births per woman in 2024—well below the 2.1 needed to maintain a stable population—Japan is grappling with a shrinking workforce and a growing elderly population. By 2050, it is estimated that 40% of Japan’s population will be over 65, placing unprecedented pressure on the country’s social security, healthcare, and pension systems.
The economic implications are significant. A declining working-age population means fewer taxpayers to support the growing number of retirees. Japan’s pension system, once a model of sustainability, is under strain as the ratio of workers to retirees continues to shrink. In 1960, there were 11 workers for every retiree; today, that ratio is closer to 2:1, and by 2050, it is projected to fall to 1.3:1. This demographic shift has prompted the government to explore reforms, such as raising the retirement age, encouraging women and older adults to remain in the workforce, and increasing immigration—a controversial topic in a country that has historically been cautious about opening its borders.
Healthcare costs are another concern. While Japan’s universal healthcare system has been successful in promoting longevity, the rising number of elderly citizens with chronic conditions such as dementia, arthritis, and cardiovascular disease is straining resources. The government has responded by investing in technologies such as robotics and artificial intelligence to assist with eldercare. For example, robotic devices like ROBOHELPER Sasuke, designed to help elderly individuals with mobility, are becoming more common in nursing homes and private residences.
Socially, the aging population has led to increased isolation among the elderly, particularly in urban areas where traditional community structures are less prevalent. The phenomenon of “kodokushi,” or lonely deaths, has gained attention in recent years, with thousands of elderly individuals found deceased in their homes weeks or months after passing. To address this issue, local governments and nonprofits have launched initiatives to combat loneliness, such as community centers, volunteer networks, and programs that pair young people with elderly residents for regular visits.
Elderly Day: Honoring a Growing Legacy
The release of the centenarian figures comes just ahead of Japan’s annual Elderly Day, celebrated on September 15. This national holiday is an opportunity to honor the contributions of older adults and recognize their role in shaping the nation’s history and culture. Each year, the prime minister sends congratulatory letters and silver cups to new centenarians, a tradition that began in 1963 when the centenarian population was still in the hundreds.
Elderly Day is more than a symbolic gesture; it reflects Japan’s deep respect for its elderly population and the cultural value placed on wisdom and experience. Across the country, communities organize events such as tea ceremonies, musical performances, and storytelling sessions to celebrate the occasion. For many centenarians, the holiday is a chance to reflect on their lives and share their stories with younger generations.
This year’s Elderly Day takes on added significance as Japan approaches the milestone of 100,000 centenarians, a figure that could be reached as early as 2026. The government has already begun planning for this historic moment, with proposals for special commemorative events and initiatives to further support the elderly population.
Global Lessons from Japan’s Longevity
Japan’s success in fostering longevity offers valuable lessons for the rest of the world. As global populations age—by 2050, the number of people over 60 is expected to double to 2.1 billion, according to the United Nations—other countries are looking to Japan for insights on how to promote healthy aging. The emphasis on preventive healthcare, balanced diets, and active lifestyles can be adapted to different cultural contexts, while innovations in eldercare technology, such as robotics and telemedicine, have the potential to transform how societies care for their elderly populations.
However, Japan’s challenges also serve as a cautionary tale. The economic and social pressures of an aging population require proactive planning and creative solutions. Countries like Germany, Italy, and South Korea, which are also experiencing low birth rates and aging populations, are closely studying Japan’s policies on pensions, healthcare, and workforce participation.
On a broader level, Japan’s experience raises questions about the balance between quantity and quality of life. While living to 100 is a remarkable achievement, ensuring that those years are filled with health, purpose, and connection is equally important. Japan’s holistic approach—combining diet, exercise, social engagement, and healthcare—offers a model for achieving this balance.
The Future of Japan’s Centenarians
As Japan looks to the future, the question is not just how to sustain its growing centenarian population but how to ensure that the country remains vibrant and sustainable for all generations. Efforts to boost the birth rate, such as providing financial incentives for families and improving work-life balance, are critical to addressing the demographic imbalance. At the same time, policies that empower older adults to remain active contributors to society—whether through part-time work, volunteering, or mentorship—can help bridge the generational gap.
Technological innovation will also play a key role. Japan is already a leader in developing assistive technologies for the elderly, from wearable health monitors to AI-powered companions. These advancements have the potential to enhance the quality of life for centenarians and reduce the burden on caregivers and healthcare systems.
Culturally, Japan’s respect for its elderly population sets a powerful example. In a world where youth is often prioritized, Japan’s celebration of its centenarians reminds us of the value of experience, resilience, and wisdom. As Shigeko Kagawa and Kiyotaka Mizuno continue to inspire with their remarkable lives, they represent not just the past but the potential for a future where longevity is a gift to be cherished.
Conclusion
Japan’s record-breaking 99,763 centenarians is a milestone that reflects the nation’s extraordinary achievements in public health, culture, and social cohesion. For 55 years, the country has pushed the boundaries of what it means to live a long, healthy life, driven by a diet rooted in tradition, a commitment to physical and mental activity, and a healthcare system that prioritizes prevention. Yet, this milestone also underscores the challenges of an aging society, from economic pressures to social isolation.
As Japan prepares to celebrate Elderly Day on September 15, 2025, the nation honors not only its centenarians but also the collective efforts that have made such longevity possible. The stories of individuals like Shigeko Kagawa and Kiyotaka Mizuno serve as a reminder that behind the numbers are lives filled with purpose, resilience, and connection. As the world watches Japan navigate the complexities of an aging population, its successes and challenges offer a roadmap for the future—one where living to 100 is not just a possibility but a reality filled with meaning and vitality.
