Japan has reached a record high of over 95,000 centenarians (people aged 100 or older), with nearly 88% being women, according to an August 08 2025 Mind Food report(1). This milestone is attributed to factors like a high-quality healthcare system, a balanced diet, active lifestyles, and strong social support networks says Google Ai.

The life expectancy of Japanese stands at 81.09 years for men and 87.13 years for women, according to a July 25 2025 report in Japan Times (2), and has climbed since health ministry started the survey in 1947. Cancer is the highest cause of death among Japanese; 25% for men and 20% for women.

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News reports say the rise in centenarians reflects Japan’s world-leading life expectancy and ongoing improvements in quality of life.

Japan’s high concentration of centenarians are attributed to a combination of factors such as diet, lifestyle, social connections, and a strong sense of purpose. Okinawa, in particular, is known as a “Blue Zone” with a particularly high number of centenarians, as detailed by a previous Herbsprout blog post, “Want to live long? Try the Okinawa Diet . . . “, (https://en.bloguru.com/healthtech/365907/want-to-live-long-try-the-okinawa-diet) (3).

Factors contributing to longevity in Japan: 

• Diet: A traditional Japanese diet often emphasizes fish, vegetables, rice, and soy products, while limiting meat, dairy, and processed foods. This dietary pattern is associated with lower risks of heart disease, cancer, and other age-related illnesses. According to Wikipedia, the Okinawan diet is particularly known for being low in calories and high in antioxidants. 
• Lifestyle: Many Japanese people maintain active lifestyles, engaging in activities like gardening, walking, and traditional martial arts. This emphasis on physical activity helps maintain mobility and overall health, according to a Quora post. Furthermore, the cultural emphasis on respecting and caring for elders contributes to their well-being and reduces social isolation. 
• Social Connections: Strong social ties and community engagement are also crucial. The concept of “ikigai,” a sense of purpose and belonging, is deeply embedded in Japanese culture and is thought to motivate individuals to stay active and engaged in life. 
• Health and Healthcare: Japan has a robust healthcare system and a culture of preventative care, including regular checkups. This allows for early detection and management of health issues, contributing to longer lifespans. 
• Genetics: Some studies suggest that some centenarians may have unique genetic features that contribute to cell regeneration and longevity. 

1) https://www.mindfood.com/article/this-country-has-over-95000-centenarians/

2) https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/07/25/japan/science-health/life-expectancy-average-flat/

3) https://en.bloguru.com/healthtech/365907/want-to-live-long-try-the-okinawa-diet.