Kinue Yoshida was born in Japan on 10 June 1905.

At some point before reaching the age of 100, she moved to a nursing home for the elderly. During her stay, she received the prestigious title of yokozuna, the highest rank in sumo wrestling, commonly known as ‘grand champion.’ In her mid-nineties, she allegedly made a promise to her granddaughter, vowing to surpass the age of 100. Even as a centenarian, she was reportedly able to walk unassisted, engage in independent crafting, maintain excellent sight and hearing, and enjoy discussing current affairs. At the age of 108, she would still greet her relatives with lively enthusiasm when they came to visit her at her nursing home.

Yoshida was known for her creativity and talent in crafting various items. Her repertoire included elaborate origami works, small items made from string, collages, and pottery. After completing her creations, she would give them away as gifts or use them to decorate her nursing home. Additionally, she took pleasure in watercolor painting. When she turned 100, a painting class was started at her nursing home in response to residents’ requests. She focused on creating still-life paintings featuring inanimate objects such as glasses, water jugs, or melons, and one of her notable pieces was titled “Autumn Breeze and Apartments Line the Mountain Tops.”

Kinue Yoshida passed away in Takarazuka, Hyōgo Prefecture, Japan, on 17 June 2016, at the age of 111 years, 7 days. Condolences were conveyed by the governor of Hyōgo Prefecture and the mayor of Takarazuka during her funeral.