A remarkable achievement has been made by a 108-year-old Japanese woman, Shitsui Hakoishi, who has broken the record as the world’s oldest female barber. This milestone comes after a career spanning nine decades in the hairdressing profession. Hakoishi, residing in the town of Nakagawa in Tochigi prefecture, continues to work at her salon, displaying unwavering dedication to her craft.
Born on November 10, 1916, Hakoishi grew up in Nakagawa, which was then known as Ouchi, in a farming family. At the young age of 14, she ventured alone to Tokyo and embarked on her journey as an apprentice barber. Despite facing challenges, she diligently honed her skills, often practicing late into the night to excel beyond her peers.
In 1936, just before turning 20, Hakoishi obtained her barber’s license and subsequently established her own business with her husband, Jiro, in 1939. However, the tumultuous wartime period brought hardships as her salon was destroyed in an air raid, and her husband, serving in the Imperial Japanese Army, tragically did not return from the war. The official confirmation of his demise reached her in 1953, prompting her to open a solo barber shop while raising her two children.
Hakoishi credits her exceptional longevity to a daily routine of numerous exercises she has faithfully followed since the age of 70. This commitment to physical well-being was further evidenced when she was chosen as a torchbearer at the Tokyo Olympics in 2021, showcasing her enduring vitality and spirit.
Despite grappling with a persistent knee ailment that limits her hair-cutting frequency, Hakoishi remains resolute in serving her loyal clientele. Her resilience and passion for her profession have garnered admiration from far and wide, with people traveling long distances to avail themselves of her services. Her dedication to her craft and her clients exemplifies a strong work ethic and a deep sense of purpose.
In a broader context, Hakoishi’s story is a testament to the vitality and resilience of the aging population in Japan, a country characterized by its rapidly aging society. With over 36 million individuals aged 66 or above, comprising nearly 30% of the population, Japan faces unique demographic challenges. However, individuals like Hakoishi, along with other seniors breaking records and engaging in various activities, defy stereotypes and demonstrate the richness and diversity of older age.
As Hakoishi reflects on her life, marked by both challenges and joys, she expresses profound gratitude for the support of her community and remains committed to her craft. Her enduring passion for barbering serves as an inspiration to all, embodying the adage that age is no barrier to pursuing one’s dreams and making a meaningful impact in the world.
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