Japan's centenarian population has surpassed 100,000 for the first time, reaching 107,677 according to the health ministry. This marks the highest number globally, with 88% of centenarians being women. The oldest woman is Kishimoto Fuyo, 114, from Kyoto City, while the oldest man is Kato Hikaru, 112, from Kumamoto. Health Minister Kenichiro Ueno expressed delight at the longevity trend, citing progress in medicine and technology. However, he warned of challenges to the social security system. Experts attribute the long lives to a healthy diet rich in fish, vegetables, and rice, combined with an active lifestyle involving walking and cycling. Japanese cuisine contains less saturated fat than many Western diets.

The nation faces a demographic crisis as the total population is projected to drop to 87 million by 2070, a 30% decline from its 2008 peak. Fertility rates hit a record low of 1.14 last year, far below the 2.1 needed for replacement. Residents aged 65 and older currently comprise 30% of the population, expected to reach nearly 40% by 2070. Prime Minister Sanae Takichi has called the trend an "existential crisis" and a "quiet emergency." The government has implemented programmes to encourage childbirth, but experts cite complex reasons including lower marriage rates and increased child-rearing costs. Migration remains low, with foreigners comprising only around 3% of the population.