Meet the world’s oldest female barber. A 108-year-old Japanese woman is overjoyed at the recognition

A Life of Dedication: Meet the World’s Oldest Female Barber

At 108 years old, Shitsui Hakoishi, a spirited and slender Japanese woman with a crown of white hair, has earned the title of the world’s oldest female barber. Her remarkable journey, spanning nearly a century, is a testament to her passion for her craft and her unwavering dedication to her customers. Despite her advanced age, Hakoishi has no plans to retire anytime soon, continuing to ply her trade with the same enthusiasm she had when she first picked up a pair of scissors at the age of 14. Her story is one of resilience, determination, and a deep love for her work.

A Century of Cutting Hair: Hakoishi’s Journey Begins

Born on November 10, 1916, in the small town of Nakagawa in Tochigi prefecture, Hakoishi grew up in a farming family. However, her heart wasn’t in agriculture. At the tender age of 14, she decided to pursue a career in barbering, a profession that was then dominated by men. Her decision to leave her rural home and move to Tokyo, where she could hone her skills, marked the beginning of an extraordinary journey. She started as an apprentice, learning the intricacies of the trade, and by the time she was 20, she had earned her barber’s license. This was just the start of a career that would take her through nine decades, including some of the most turbulent times in Japanese history.

War, Loss, and Resilience: Overcoming Adversity

Hakoishi’s life was not without its challenges. In 1937, during the Japan-China war, her husband was tragically killed, leaving her to raise their two children alone. Despite this devastating loss, she continued to work as a barber, determined to provide for her family. Her salon in Tokyo, which she had opened with her husband, became a source of comfort and stability for her. However, her world was turned upside down again in 1945 when the U.S. firebombing of Tokyo destroyed her salon. Hakoishi and her children were forced to evacuate to a safer area in Tochigi prefecture, where they struggled to make ends meet. It would take her eight long years to rebuild her life and reopen a salon in her hometown of Nakagawa.

Rediscovering Purpose: The Salon Reborn

In 1953, Hakoishi finally realized her dream of opening another salon, which she named "Rihatsu Hakoishi." The name, which translates to "Barber Hakoishi" in Japanese, was a fitting tribute to her craft. The salon quickly became a staple in the community, with locals flocking to her for her expertise and warm demeanor. Hakoishi’s dedication to her customers has always been at the heart of her success. "I could come this far only because of my customers," she humbly remarked during a televised news conference. Her salon became more than just a place to get a haircut; it was a space where people could find comfort and connection.

A Legacy of Joy: Recognized by Guinness World Records

Hakoishi’s remarkable career reached a new milestone in March 2024 when she was officially recognized by Guinness World Records as the world’s oldest female barber. The ceremony, held in a gymnasium in her hometown, was a moment of pure joy for her. "I’m overwhelmed and filled with joy," she said, clutching her certificate. While Guinness World Records does have a separate category for male barbers, the previous record holder, Anthony Mancinelli of the United States, passed away after being recognized at the age of 107 in 2018. Hakoishi now stands alone as the holder of this prestigious title, and she couldn’t be prouder.

The Future is Bright: No Plans to Retire

Despite turning 109 in 2025, Hakoishi shows no signs of slowing down. She continues to work at her salon, cutting hair with the same precision and care that has defined her career. "I am turning 109 this year, so I will keep going until I reach 110," she said with a confident smile. Her determination and zest for life are an inspiration to everyone who knows her. For Hakoishi, retirement is not an option. She finds fulfillment in her work and in the relationships she has built with her customers over the years. As long as she is able to hold a pair of scissors, she will keep doing what she loves—cutting hair and bringing joy to those around her.