Japan once again leads the world in longevity, with women reaching an average life expectancy of 87.13 years. The country’s growing population of centenarians reflects a culture deeply rooted in health-conscious living and strong community support systems.
BOSTON, MA (MERXWIRE) – The 2025 Global Longevity Rankings have been released, and once again, Japan claims the top spot with little surprise. According to the latest “Abridged Life Table” published by Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, Japanese women now have an average life expectancy of 87.13 years, marking the 40th consecutive year they’ve held the global longevity crown.
Not far behind, Japanese men are also living long lives, with an average lifespan of 81.09 years, ranking sixth globally. Although these figures show only slight changes from the previous year (a minimal decline of 0.01 years for women, no change for men), Japan remains firmly positioned among the world’s longevity leaders.
Beyond impressive averages, Japan also stands out in its population of centenarians. According to data compiled by the United Nations, as of 2024, there are approximately 935,000 centenarians worldwide—equivalent to about 11.6 individuals per 100,000 population. Yet Japan alone accounts for over 90,000 centenarians, more than 90% of whom are women, underscoring how deeply longevity is embedded in the nation’s lifestyle and social structure.
So what exactly fuels such remarkable longevity in Japan? Much of the answer lies in daily routines. Traditional Japanese diets emphasise low-sodium, high-vegetable intake, and whole foods. Staples like natto (fermented soybeans), miso soup, dried small fish, and fresh vegetables are staples in everyday meals across households. These nutrient-rich, gut-friendly meals support stable blood pressure, digestive health, and immune function well into old age.
In addition to lifestyle factors, Japan’s healthcare system and social infrastructure provide crucial support. The national health insurance system ensures access to timely treatment and preventive care. Localised community programs and elder activity centres promote ongoing social engagement and reduce isolation. Concepts of mental well-being and active ageing have become core elements of Japan’s public health strategy.
Globally, other countries also showed strong longevity statistics in 2024. South Korean women ranked second (86.4 years), followed by Spanish women (86.34 years). For men, Sweden (82.29 years), Switzerland (82.2 years), and Norway (81.59 years) took the top three spots, reflecting Europe’s ongoing investment in public health and high quality of life.
Japan’s consistent reign as the world’s longevity leader highlights not only the nation’s robust healthcare outcomes but also the deeper cultural values that underpin daily life in Japan. From balanced, wholesome meals to strong social ties and orderly routines, these seemingly modest habits collectively form the foundation for ageing healthfully.
Yet even as Japan celebrates its long-lived population, serious societal challenges lie ahead. The pressures of an ageing society—ranging from a shrinking workforce to rising demands for caregiving and shifting intergenerational dynamics—are beginning to reshape the nation’s social fabric. Ensuring that longevity remains a blessing rather than a burden will require policies and innovations that allow older adults to stay active, autonomous, and dignified members of society.
