Japan has once again set a record for life expectancy, and as of September 1, 2025, the number of Japanese people who have reached the age of 100 has reached 99,763.
This figure is the highest ever recorded and marks the 55th consecutive year of growth in the number of centenarians. This impressive number reflects not only individual achievements in survival, but also the result of decades of investment in healthcare, nutrition, and cultural practices that promote healthy aging.
The increase in centenarians is evidence of national resilience and demographic shifts, but it also draws attention to the pressing challenges of an aging society.
The overwhelming majority of centenarians are women, who account for about 88% of people aged 100 and older. This gender imbalance corresponds to global trends, but it is particularly pronounced in Japan.
The country’s average life expectancy—already the highest in the world—further underscores these positive trends: in 2023, it stood at 87.14 years for women and 81.09 years for men.
Key factors contributing to such outstanding longevity include a balanced diet rich in vegetables and fish, low obesity rates, and well-developed systems of social support.
The traditional Japanese diet, characterized by low levels of saturated fats and red meat, along with high consumption of fish, seafood, soy products, and vegetables, plays a significant role in reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and certain types of cancer.
The habit of moderate food intake, known as hara hachi bu (eating until 80% full), also helps maintain a healthy weight.
In addition to diet, an active lifestyle and social engagement play an important role. Many elderly people in Japan continue to walk daily, use public transportation, and participate in group exercises such as Radio Taiso—a set of simple physical exercises broadcast on the radio since 1928.
Strong social connections and a sense of purpose, or ikigai, also contribute to longevity, as older people often remain involved in work, hobbies, family life, and community activities.
These factors, combined with a well-developed healthcare system and a focus on preventive medicine, create an environment conducive to long and healthy lives. However, the growing number of centenarians also poses new challenges for the country, related to healthcare funding and the burden on social security systems, given the trend of declining birthrates and overall population aging.
Nevertheless, Japan’s experience in managing an aging society serves as an inspiring example for other nations striving to increase life expectancy and improve the quality of life for their citizens.