Cover image via Guinness World Records
Shitsui Hakoishi, a 108-year-old barber from Japan, has been officially recognised by Guinness World Records as the world's oldest female barber
The centenarian, who has spent 94 years honing her craft, still serves a handful of loyal customers each month and has no plans to retire.
According to Guinness World Records, Hakoishi's journey began in 1931 when she left her hometown for Tokyo to train as a barber, earning her licence at 20.
Eight years later, she opened a barbershop with her husband. However, tragedy struck during World War II — she lost both her husband and her business in an air raid.
Undeterred, she rebuilt her life, opening a new shop in Nakagawa, Tochigi Prefecture, in 1953.
Image via Guinness World Records
Her dedication to her profession has never wavered. Even now, she remains active in her community, embodying resilience and passion
"I'm truly overwhelmed with happiness. I'm grateful to everyone in the community. Life has been full of hardships since my youth, but now I'm truly happy. I will continue as long as I can," she said at the Guinness award ceremony, which she attended with her children.
Her son, also a barber, has written a book about her extraordinary life, while her daughter, who has cerebral palsy, works as a disability support volunteer.
Image via Guinness World Records
Hakoishi's incredible longevity and vitality have captivated many
In 2020, she was honoured as a Tokyo Olympic torchbearer, training rigorously by walking over 1,000 steps daily with a weighted pole.
She credits her health to a balanced diet and daily exercise, including walking and stretching.
Beyond her physical endurance, she lives by a philosophy passed down from her mother: "Hold no grudges, feel no jealousy, and engage in no quarrels."
Her story has inspired countless people online, with many praising not just her long life, but the sense of purpose that keeps her going.
Image via Guinness World Records
