Japan now has 107,677 people aged 100 or older

In most countries around the world, people tend to suffer from various health problems as they grow older. However, in Japan, the number of people reaching the age of 100 or older continues to rise. Notably, for the first time, the number of centenarians in Japan has surpassed 100,000. As the elderly population continues to grow, the country’s overall population is declining, while the number of working-age people is also decreasing.

According to a report by CNN, citing Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, the number of people aged 100 or older in the country rose to 107,677 in September. This is approximately 8,000 more than the previous year. It marks the 56th consecutive year that the number of people aged 100 or older has increased in Japan.

It is worth noting that women make up a significantly larger proportion of Japan’s centenarian population. Of the total 107,677 people aged 100 or older, 94,298 are women, meaning that women account for approximately 88 percent of the total. By contrast, the number of men in this age group is considerably lower. These figures indicate that women in Japan are significantly ahead of men when it comes to reaching an advanced age. Japan’s Health Minister Kenjiro Ueno expressed his happiness over the figures, saying he was pleased that such a large number of people are continuing to live active and healthy lives for so many years.

Japan is considered one of the countries where people live the longest. According to World Bank data, Japan’s average life expectancy was approximately 84 years in 2024. By comparison, the figure in the United States was around 79 years. Several factors are cited as contributing to Japan’s longevity. The traditional Japanese diet includes plenty of fish, vegetables, and other well-balanced foods. In addition, the country has a highly developed healthcare system. Regular health checkups and improved medical facilities also help people live longer lives.

Another aspect of longevity that is frequently discussed in Japan is “Ikigai,” which refers to a reason for living or an activity that gives person happiness and a sense of fulfillment. Many Japanese people remain active in one way or another even as they grow older. For them, family, society, work, hobbies, or responsibilities can help maintain a sense of purpose in life. Although Japan has faced criticism for its culture of working for long periods, particularly in major cities, many people in the country continue to remain active even after retirement.

It is noteworthy that Japan is already grappling with the challenges posed by a declining population. The country has a population of approximately 123 million, and it continues to decline. Its birth rate has fallen to a record low. This is having a direct impact on the country’s working-age population: the number of elderly people is increasing, while the number of young working-age people is declining in comparison. As a result, government and family spending on elderly care is increasing. At the same time, finding an adequate number of workers is becoming a major challenge for companies and the wider economy.