LongeviQuest is delighted to report that Okagi Hayashi, the oldest known living person in Gifu Prefecture, Japan, celebrated her 114th birthday on 2 September 2023. LongeviQuest Japan has sent 70 congratulatory emails from her fans all over the world. She also received heartwarming messages from her relatives. Mrs. Hayashi was reported to be very happy reading the messages she received on her special day.

Due to an outbreak of COVID-19 at the nursing home where she lives, LongeviQuest Japan could not visit her in person so we sent a celebratory plaque and flowers instead.

Mrs. Okagi Hayashi with her granddaughter with the congratulatory letter from her relatives.

Mrs. Hayashi was born in the village of Tsumagi (now Tsumagicho, Toki City), Gifu Prefecture, Japan, on 2 September 1909. She married her husband in her early twenties, and they had nine children together. Her husband was adopted into the Hayashi family, so she was able to keep her maiden name.

Mrs. Hayashi had always taken good care of her health in her middle life. She drank a glass of green juice every morning and exercised regularly with her husband. Even into her 80s, she was still active and enjoyed going on hot spring trips and gardening with her friends.

Mrs. Hayashi practiced calligraphy until she was in her 90s. She lived with her family in her home until she was 105. In September 2019, she had 8 living children, 22 grandchildren, 39 great-grandchildren, and five great-great-grandchildren. At the age of 112, she was still able to read newspapers and enjoyed playing puzzle games.

On 24 June 2019, she became the oldest living person in Gifu Prefecture following the death of 110-year-old Tsuyo Wada.

LongeviQuest sends our warmest congratulations to Mrs. Okagi Hayashi and her family. We wish you good health and happiness.