Japan records more than 100,000 centenarians for first time

Japan has reached a historic milestone, with the population of centenarians surpassing 100,000 for the first time, according to the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare. The number of people aged 100 or older reached 107,677 in September, marking an increase of nearly 8,000 compared to the previous year. Women comprise the majority of this milestone group, accounting for 88% of the total, with 94,298 female centenarians recorded.

Health Minister Kenichiro Ueno expressed optimism about the trend, stating that he is pleased that many people are remaining active and healthy for extended periods. Japan's longevity is attributed to a nutrient-rich diet, an advanced universal healthcare system, and the cultural philosophy of ikigai, which encourages individuals to find personal value and daily joy despite urban pressures.

However, this unprecedented longevity poses significant economic and structural challenges for the country. The greying of society puts immense pressure on Japan's fourth-largest economy, as comprehensive elderly care costs surge and the domestic workforce steadily declines. Japan's total population of 123 million continues to contract, with annual births at unprecedented lows.

While the government has welcomed skilled and blue-collar foreign workers to address labour shortages, recent political shifts have tightened visa requirements amid a rise in anti-foreigner sentiment across various urban centers. Balancing this remarkable human achievement against deep structural headwinds will test the resilience of modern governance. Policy analysts emphasize the need to harmonize social welfare modernization with measured, inclusive economic reforms to secure a sustainable future for Japan.