Japan has surpassed 100,000 centenarians for the first time, according to data released by the country’s Health Ministry on Tuesday. The latest figures show that 107,677 individuals in Japan are aged 100 or older, marking an increase of nearly 8,000 from the previous year. This milestone reflects the nation’s longstanding reputation for longevity.

The oldest resident in Japan is Fuyo Kishimoto of Kyoto, who recently turned 114. The oldest man is Hikaru Kato from Kumamoto, who is 112 years old. Women comprise approximately 88 percent of the centenarian population, significantly outnumbering men.

Health Minister Kenichiro Ueno addressed the milestone on Tuesday, emphasizing the government’s commitment to strengthening social security systems to support the elderly and enable them to maintain healthy, active lives.

Experts attribute Japan’s high number of centenarians to several factors. Stuart Gietel-Basten, a social science professor at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, cited the population’s generally healthy diet, regular physical activity, and an accessible healthcare system featuring frequent medical checkups as key contributors. He also noted that the disproportionate number of women among centenarians could be tied to historical and lifestyle differences. Many men of the current centenarian generation died during World War II, while survivors have tended to have higher rates of smoking and alcohol consumption than women. Additionally, men in this cohort were more likely to work in industrial jobs, which may have had lasting adverse health effects.

As Japan’s population continues to age, the government faces ongoing challenges in managing healthcare and social welfare systems to accommodate a growing number of elderly citizens. The recent data underscores the importance of policies aimed at supporting longevity while addressing the needs of an aging society.