For the first time, Japan has more than 100,000 centenarians

Tokyo, Japan – Japan has recently witnessed a remarkable demographic shift as the number of centenarians crossed a significant milestone. For the first time ever, the population of people aged 100 or older surpassed 100,000, reaching 107,677 in September, an increase of nearly 8,000 from the previous year. This surge marks the 56th consecutive year of growth in Japan's centenarian population, as reported by the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare on Tuesday.

The majority of these long-lived individuals are women, accounting for 88 percent, or 94,298 out of the total. Health Minister Kenichiro Ueno expressed his satisfaction, stating, "I am very pleased that so many people are remaining active and healthy for so long."

Japan has long been recognized as one of the world's leading countries in terms of longevity, with an average life expectancy of 84 years in 2024, according to the World Bank. In comparison, the United States recorded an average life expectancy of 79 years. The country's reputation for healthy lifestyles and advanced healthcare system has been credited with contributing to these extraordinary longevity figures.

Scientists have pointed to wholesome diets and the country's advanced healthcare system as key factors in Japan's remarkable longevity record.

While Japan enjoys a reputation for extreme working hours, some residents embrace the philosophy of "ikigai," which encourages individuals to find value and joy in their lives. The country currently boasts some of the world's oldest people, including Fuyo Kishimoto, a 114-year-old woman from Kyoto, and Hikaru Kato, a 112-year-old man from Kumamoto.

However, the aging population is also posing challenges for Japan's economy. The increasing number of elderly citizens is putting pressure on the workforce and driving up costs associated with elderly care. Japan's population of 123 million has been declining for years, with birth rates hitting a record low. The country has opened its doors to skilled and labor workers in recent years, but recent visa restrictions have raised concerns.

Despite the country's long average life expectancy, Japan continues to face the challenges of an aging population and a shrinking workforce.