For the first time, the number of people aged 100 or older in Japan has exceeded 100,000, with the nation now home to 107,677 centenarians, according to the health ministry. This demographic milestone highlights Japan's position as having the highest number of centenarians globally, with 88% of this group being women. The oldest verified centenarian is Kishimoto Fuyo, a 114-year-old from Kyoto, and the oldest man is Kato Hikaru, aged 112.
Health Minister Kenichiro Ueno expressed delight at the longevity, attributing it to advancements in medicine and technology, alongside lifestyle factors. Experts point to a traditional Japanese diet rich in fish, vegetables, and rice, with lower saturated fat content compared to Western diets, as a significant contributor. Additionally, older Japanese citizens often maintain active lifestyles, incorporating regular walking, public transport use, cycling, and stretching.
Demographic Challenges
Despite the longevity, Japan faces significant demographic challenges. The nation's total fertility rate dropped to a record low of 1.14 last year, far below the replacement level of 2.1 children per woman. Projections estimate the total population will decline to 87 million by 2070, a 30% decrease from its 2008 peak of 128 million. The proportion of residents aged 65 and older, already around 30%, is expected to reach nearly 40% by 2070.
Japanese authorities have described this demographic trend as an "existential crisis" and a "quiet emergency." In 2025, the total population decreased in all but two of Japan's 47 prefectures, with the rate of decline accelerating. Government initiatives aimed at boosting birth rates have yielded limited success, with experts citing complex factors such as lower marriage rates, increased female workforce participation, and the rising costs associated with raising children.
While immigration has seen an increase in recent years, foreigners constitute only about 3% of the population, and there is growing opposition to accepting larger numbers of immigrants. The aging population has already led to societal shifts, such as adult diaper sales exceeding baby diaper sales for over a decade. Companies have responded by developing products catering to the elderly, including powered exoskeletons and adaptive eyewear.