Many wondered what the secret to her longevity was. Shigeko Kagawa, Japan’s oldest living resident, died on August 27 in Nara Prefecture at the age of 115 years and 91 days, the Independent reported. Kagawa became Japan’s oldest living person following the death of a 114-year-old woman from Nakatsu, Oita Prefecture, on July 29, 2025.
Throughout World War II and the decades following, she cared for thousands of patients. She ran a private clinic in Yamatokoriyama, frequently rushing out during late nights and holidays to deliver babies or assist in emergency care. Wearing her relay uniform, she smiled brightly as her family wheeled her through her segment before she stood up to pass the flame.
Beyond her career, Kagawa captured global attention in 2021 when she participated as a torchbearer for the Tokyo Olympic Torch Relay at age 109.
She once said that “walking and using your brain” helped to keep her going, according to the media outlet. Meanwhile, her family said that she ate three proper meals a day and maintained a routine.
