Shigeko Kagawa (賀川滋子), the oldest living person in Japan, passed away in Yamatokōriyama, Nara Prefecture, on 27 August 2026, at the age of 115 years and 91 days.
Following her death, Fuyo Kishimoto (岸本ふよ) of Kyoto Prefecture became the oldest living person in Japan.
Kagawa was born in Japan on 28 May 1911. Born into a family of physicians, she graduated from Osaka Women’s Medical College (now Kansai Medical University). She later took over her family’s clinic and contributed to local medical care as an obstetrician and gynecologist until retiring at the age of 86.
On 12 April 2021, at the age of 109, Kagawa served as a torchbearer for the Tokyo Olympics, becoming the world’s oldest Olympic torchbearer. She completed her section of the relay in a wheelchair pushed by her granddaughter-in-law.
Shigeko Kagawa, who served as the oldest Olympic torchbearer at the age of 109. (Source: The Mainichi)
Kagawa attributed her longevity in part to the extensive walking she had done throughout her life. During her medical career, she often wore traditional Japanese clogs and walked long distances to visit patients.
In February 2025, at the age of 113 years and 9 months, Kagawa underwent hip surgery after a fracture. She celebrated her 115th birthday on 28 May 2026.
On 27 August 2026, Kagawa passed away at her home in Yamatokōriyama, Nara Prefecture, at the age of 115 years and 91 days.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family and loved ones of Shigeko Kagawa during this difficult time.
