In a serene corner of Nakagawa, Japan, a remarkable centenarian named Shitsui Hakoishi continues to ply her trade as the world’s oldest female barber. At 108 years old, her commitment to her craft has been officially recognized by the Guinness World Records, a moment she described as overwhelmingly joyous alongside the satisfaction she sees in her clients.
An official ceremony on Wednesday awarded Hakoishi with a certificate of record recognition. Although there are separate categories for male and female barbers, the previous male record-holder, Anthony Mancinelli from the USA, passed away in 2018 at 107. This leaves Hakoishi as the sole reigning record holder among barbers.
Hakoishi’s career has impressively spanned nearly a century, drawing strength from the loyalty and encouragement of her clientele. During a televised news conference in Nakagawa’s gymnasium, she expressed gratitude toward her customers, acknowledging their support as pivotal to her lengthy career. “I could come this far only because of my customers,” said Hakoishi, expressing her heartfelt joy about the recognition.
Born on November 10, 1916, into a farming family, Hakoishi chose to become a barber at the tender age of 14. Her journey took her from her hometown to Tokyo, where she served as an apprentice to master her skills. By age 20, she had secured her barber’s license and embarked on a venture with her husband to open a salon. However, her promising career was disrupted by the Japan-China War in 1937, during which her husband tragically perished.
Further adversity struck on March 10, 1945, when U.S. firebombings razed her Tokyo salon. This compelled her and her children to take refuge in Tochigi Prefecture. It wasn’t until eight years later, resilience undeterred, did Hakoishi re-establish her salon called Rihatsu Hakoishi in Nakagawa—’Rihatsu’ translates to ‘barber’ in Japanese.
As she nears her 109th birthday, Hakoishi has no intention of retiring. Smiling with determination, she pledged to continue her beloved work until she reaches at least 110 years old. Her enduring spirit and dedication serve as an inspiration, resonating with those inside and outside her profession.
