In the annals of human longevity, Japan stands out as a country with an impressive number of supercentenarians – people who live to be 110 years or older. 

Remarkably, three of the ten oldest people ever recorded hail from Japan, as well as the current oldest living person, Tomiko Itooka, who has reached the incredible age of 116 years and 90 days.

Japan’s strong presence in the list of the world’s oldest people is no coincidence. 

The country has long been known for the longevity of its citizens, which is often attributed to a combination of factors such as diet, healthcare, social cohesion, and cultural attitudes towards ageing.

Kane Tanaka, who passed away in 2022 at the age of 119 years and 107 days, was a beloved figure in Japan and symbolised the country’s remarkable record of longevity. 

Before her, Nabi Tajima also made headlines as one of the world’s oldest women, living to be 117 years and 260 days old. 

Chiyo Miyako, who passed away in 2018 at 117 years and 81 days, adds to Japan’s impressive tally.

The newest addition to this exclusive club is Tomiko Itooka, from Japan, who at 116 years and 90 days, is currently the oldest known living person, although they don’t yet make the top ten ever list.

Japan’s elderly population is often the subject of study and admiration worldwide.

Researchers suggest that a traditional diet rich in fish, rice, vegetables, and green tea, coupled with low levels of smoking and a strong healthcare system, contributes to the country’s high number of centenarians. 

Additionally, the Japanese concept of “ikigai,” which translates to “a reason for being,” is thought to give many older Japanese people a sense of purpose and motivation to live long, fulfilling lives.

The Top 10 Oldest People Ever

1. Jeanne Calment (France)
Born: 21 February 1875
Died: 4 August 1997
Age: 122 years, 164 days

2. Kane Tanaka (Japan)
Born: 2 January 1903
Died: 19 April 2022
Age: 119 years, 107 days

3. Sarah Knauss (United States)
Born: 24 September 1880
Died: 30 December 1999
Age: 119 years, 97 days

4. Lucile Randon (France)
Born: 11 February 1904
Died: 17 January 2023
Age: 118 years, 340 days

5. Nabi Tajima (Japan)
Born: 4 August 1900
Died: 21 April 2018
Age: 117 years, 260 days

6. Marie-Louise Meilleur (Canada)
Born: 29 August 1880
Died: 16 April 1998
Age: 117 years, 230 days

7. Violet Brown (Jamaica)
Born: 10 March 1900
Died: 15 September 2017
Age: 117 years, 189 days

8. Maria Branyas (Spain)
Born: 4 March 1907
Died: 19 August 2024
Age: 117 years, 168 days

9. Emma Morano (Italy)
Born: 29 November 1899
Died: 15 April 2017
Age: 117 years, 137 days

10. Chiyo Miyako (Japan)
Born: 2 May 1901
Died: 22 July 2018
Age: 117 years, 81 days