Record-breaking number of Japanese citizens now over 100 years old

Japan is preparing to celebrate a remarkable holiday honouring its citizens aged 100 and older. In commemoration of the event, authorities revealed that nearly 100,000 living residents have reached this extraordinary age.

Setting a record for the 55th consecutive year, the number of centenarians in Japan stood at 99,763 as of this month, with women accounting for an overwhelming 88%, The Japan Times quotes the country's Health Ministry as saying.

Japan boasts the world’s longest life expectancy and is frequently home to the world’s oldest living person. It is also among the fastest-ageing societies, with residents enjoying healthier diets but a low birth rate creating a demographic challenge.

The country’s oldest person is a 114-year-old woman from a suburb of Nara, while the oldest man is 111.

Health Minister Takamaro Fukoka congratulated the 87,784 female and 11,979 male centenarians on their longevity, expressing his "gratitude for their many years of contributions to the development of society."

The figures were released ahead of Japan’s Elderly Day on September 15, a national holiday during which new centenarians receive a congratulatory letter and silver cup from the prime minister. This year, 52,310 individuals qualified, the Health Ministry said.

In the 1960s, Japan had the lowest proportion of centenarians among G7 countries, but the numbers have risen dramatically since. When the government began its centenarian survey in 1963, there were just 153 people aged 100 or over. That number grew to 1,000 in 1981 and 10,000 by 1998.

What routines sets Japan's population apart?

The country’s higher life expectancy is largely attributed to fewer deaths from heart disease and common cancers, especially breast and prostate cancer. Japan also has low obesity rates, thanks to diets low in red meat and high in fish and vegetables.

Obesity rates are particularly low among women, helping explain why Japanese women live longer than men. Unlike many countries, Japan has reduced salt intake and sugar consumption through effective public health campaigns.

But diet is not the only factor. Japanese people remain active into later life, walking and using public transport more than elderly populations in the US and Europe.

Radio Taiso, a daily three-minute group exercise routine established in 1928, encourages both community spirit and public health. It is broadcast on television and practiced in local groups nationwide.