Centenarians in Japan top 100,000 for the first time

Absolutely incredible news from Japan this month; the number of centenarians has exceeded 100,000 for the first time. Each year, the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare release a report on the number of centenarians. It is always released in the lead up to "Senior Citizen's Day" and "Respect for the Aged Day", which this year, 2026, fall on September 15th and 21st respectfully. And once again the figures have reached a historic high.

As of September 1st, 2026, Japan has 107,677 centenarians, marking the 56th consecutive year the country has set a new record. Women continue to make up the vast majority, accounting for around 88% of all people aged 100 or older. Japan’s absolute number of centenarians may not be the highest in the world, but its per‑capita ratio remains unmatched, securing its position as the global leader in life expectancy. 

It’s remarkable to consider how quickly this demographic has grown. In 1963, Japan had only 153 people aged 100 or older, the lowest proportion among G7 nations at the time. Today, more than 50,000 new centenarians (people who turned 100 in the last year) will receive a congratulatory letter and a commemorative silver cup from the Prime Minister, though not in person given the sheer number of recipients. 

Japan’s centenarian population continues to reflect the country’s long-standing commitment to public health, nutrition, and community support for older adults - and Respect for the Aged Day remains a moment to celebrate those who have lived a century or more.