Shitsui Hakoishi, a 108-year-old woman from Japan, has been officially recognized as the world’s oldest barber by Guinness World Records.
Born in 1916, Hakoishi began her career at just 14 years old when a friend’s mother invited her to apprentice at a Tokyo hair salon. Hakoishi has since vowed to continue working until at least the age of 110.
At a recent celebration in Nakagawa, Tochigi, Hakoishi, still wielding her own scissors, expressed her happiness, saying, “I’m very happy. My heart is full.” The event was attended by her two children—an 85-year-old daughter and an 81-year-old son.
Guinness World Records confirmed that the title of oldest barber is awarded separately for male and female categories. Previously, the title was held by Anthony Mancinelli, the oldest male barber, who worked in New York until he was 107. After his passing, the title was vacated, and Hakoishi now holds it.
Hakoishi’s life has been one of perseverance and resilience. She married in her early 20s and opened a salon with her husband, who was later conscripted during World War II and died. The family salon, which also served as their home, was destroyed in the US military’s bombing of Tokyo. Fortunately, Hakoishi and her children survived after evacuating to her hometown of Nakagawa.
Years after the war, Hakoishi opened a new salon in Nakagawa, where she continues to work today, receiving calls from long-time clients seeking her services. Despite now living in a care home, she remains self-sufficient.
In 2021, Hakoishi had the honour of being a torchbearer for the Tokyo Olympics, walking approximately 200 meters, as reported by regional broadcaster Tochigi TV.
When asked about her future, Hakoishi expressed her determination to keep working: “I turn 109 this year, but I want to work hard until I’m 110,” she said.
