Japan is often described as the land of longevity. For decades, the country has fascinated the world with its high life expectancy and the extraordinary number of citizens who live beyond 100 years.
Recently, the Japanese government announced that the number of people aged 100 or older has reached 99,763 as of September 2025, and is expected to cross 100,000 in just a few days.
This milestone once again highlights Japan’s unique lifestyle, diet, and healthcare practices that have made it home to the highest number of centenarians in the world.
The Numbers Speak for Themselves
Total centenarians in Japan (2025): 99,763
Women’s share: 88% (87,784 women and 11,979 men)
Record streak: For the past 55 consecutive years, Japan has had the world’s highest number of centenarians.
Japan also holds the record for the oldest living people in the world. Currently, Shigeko Kagawa, a 114-year-old woman from Yamato-Koriyama city, and Kiyotaka Mizuno, a 111-year-old man from Iwata, are among Japan’s oldest citizens.
Why Are Japanese People Living Longer?
1. A Healthy Diet
Low in red meat, high in fish and vegetables.
Minimal use of sugar and salt in everyday meals.
Regular consumption of rice, tofu, miso, and green tea.
Fresh seasonal produce contributes to balanced nutrition.
2. Lower Obesity Rates
Japan has one of the lowest obesity rates in the world, which reduces risks of heart disease and cancer.
Women especially maintain healthier weight levels, contributing to longer life spans compared to men.
3. Active Lifestyle in Old Age
Unlike in many Western countries, Japanese seniors remain physically active even in their later years.
Walking and using public transport is common among the elderly.
Social exercise traditions like “Radio Taiso” (a 3-minute group exercise broadcast since 1928) keep communities engaged and fit.
4. Preventive Healthcare & Awareness
Early detection and treatment of diseases.
Strong public campaigns about reducing salt and sugar intake.
A cultural emphasis on balance, discipline, and moderation.
Celebrating the Elderly: Respect at the Core of Japanese Culture
Japan observes Respect for the Aged Day (Keiro no Hi) every year on September 15, a national holiday dedicated to honoring senior citizens.
Newly recognized centenarians receive a silver sake cup and certificate from the Prime Minister.
In 2025 alone, 52,310 citizens were honored with this recognition.
Government officials, including Health Minister Takemaro Fukuoka, praised centenarians for their contribution to society and expressed gratitude for their resilience and wisdom.
Historical Growth of Centenarians in Japan
1963: The government began officially tracking citizens over 100. Only 153 centenarians were recorded.
1981: The number crossed 1,000.
1998: The count exceeded 10,000.
2025: Nearly 100,000 centenarians, a figure unimaginable a few decades ago.
This explosive growth reflects not only better healthcare and nutrition but also Japan’s demographic challenges: an aging population and declining birthrate.
Challenges in Data Accuracy
Some studies question whether all records are accurate:
In 2010, a government investigation revealed that more than 230,000 individuals listed as being over 100 had no traceable records.
Some were later found to have passed away decades earlier, but family members hadn’t reported deaths to continue receiving pensions.
Famous cases, like Sogen Koto, once thought to be Tokyo’s oldest man, revealed he had died 32 years earlier when remains were discovered.
Despite these discrepancies, Japan still leads the world in verified centenarians.
Global Comparisons
Japan consistently tops the charts in life expectancy:
Average life expectancy (2025): ~84.6 years.
The world’s oldest woman and often the oldest man are frequently from Japan.
Other countries like Italy, Greece, and Costa Rica also have long-living populations, but none match Japan’s consistency.
Lessons from Japan: The Longevity Formula
Japan’s success in healthy aging offers valuable lessons for the world:
Eat clean and simple – Prioritize fish, vegetables, and fermented foods.
Stay active daily – Even light exercises like walking or group stretching improve longevity.
Community bonding – Strong social connections reduce loneliness, a major issue among elderly populations globally.
Respect for elders – A culture that values wisdom and experience keeps older citizens mentally healthy.
Moderation – Balance in diet, work, and lifestyle prevents stress-related illnesses.
Conclusion
Japan’s near 100,000 centenarians milestone is more than just a statistic—it’s a reflection of a nation that has built a culture around health, respect, and balance.
While demographic challenges like a shrinking younger population pose concerns for the future, Japan continues to inspire the world with its model of healthy aging.
As other nations face rising health problems due to obesity, stress, and poor diet, Japan serves as living proof that lifestyle, community, and respect can add decades to life.
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