Has Japan's centenarian population reached a new milestone?
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Synopsis
Japan has set a new record for its centenarian population, reaching over 99,000 for the 55th consecutive year. This remarkable achievement reflects the aging demographic trend in the country. With women making up the majority, this milestone comes ahead of the annual Respect for the Aged Day, highlighting Japan's respect and care for its elderly citizens.
Key Takeaways
- Centenarians in Japan reached 99,763.
- Women account for 88% of centenarians.
- Shimane has the highest ratio of centenarians.
- Japan's overall population is declining.
- Life expectancy is high in Japan.
Tokyo, Sep 12 (NationPress) The count of centenarians in Japan has surged for the 55th consecutive year, hitting a remarkable total of 99,763, which is an increase of 4,644 compared to last year, as per government statistics released on Friday.
According to the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, there are approximately 80.58 centenarians for every 100,000 individuals residing in the nation. This data was unveiled in advance of the Respect for the Aged Day holiday, celebrated on September 15, as reported by Xinhua News Agency.
Women make up around 88 percent of those aged 100 and above, totaling 87,784, while male centenarians number 11,979, according to the ministry.
The prefecture with the highest proportion of centenarians per 100,000 residents is Shimane in western Japan, boasting a ratio of 168.69, marking its 13th consecutive year at the top.
The average life expectancy for Japanese individuals stands at 87.13 years for women and 81.09 years for men as of 2024.
The Japanese government has conducted the centenarian survey since 1963, when there were only 153 centenarians. This figure surpassed 1,000 in 1981 and crossed 10,000 in 1998.
Data released in April showed that Japan's population, including non-Japanese residents, decreased by 595,000, or 0.48 percent, from the previous year, standing at 124,352,000 as of October 1, 2023, continuing a decline for the 13th consecutive year.
The number of Japanese nationals fell by 837,000, or 0.69 percent, to 121,193,000, marking the steepest decline since records began in 1950, according to a demographic survey by the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications.
The population of individuals aged 75 and older increased by 713,000 to approximately 20.08 million, surpassing the 20 million mark for the first time, while the number of children aged 0 to 14 decreased by 329,000 to around 14.17 million, which is only 11.4 percent of the total population, the lowest figure recorded.
On a positive note, the foreign national population rose by 243,000 to about 3.16 million. The count of foreign workers and students who have resided in Japan for three months or longer was included in these overall population statistics, according to the ministry.
Among all 47 prefectures, only Tokyo experienced a population increase, marking the second consecutive year of growth for the Japanese capital.
Point of View
I emphasize the importance of recognizing the implications of Japan's aging population. While the rise in centenarians is a testament to advancements in healthcare and lifestyle, it also raises questions about the sustainability of social support systems. Our nation must prioritize care for our elderly while addressing the challenges posed by a declining younger population.
NationPress
13/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current population of centenarians in Japan?
As of the latest data, Japan has a record of 99,763 centenarians, marking a 4,644 increase from the previous year.
What percentage of centenarians are women?
Women make up approximately 88% of Japan's centenarian population, totaling around 87,784.
Which prefecture has the highest number of centenarians?
Shimane prefecture has the highest ratio of centenarians per 100,000 residents, at 168.69.
How has Japan's overall population changed?
Japan's overall population has decreased by 595,000, or 0.48%, continuing a decline for the 13th consecutive year.
What is the average life expectancy in Japan?
The average life expectancy in Japan is 87.13 years for women and 81.09 years for men as of 2024.
