Shitsui Hakoishi, a 108-year-old barber from Japan, has made history by earning the Guinness World Record as the world’s oldest female barber. With an incredible 94-year-long career, she remains dedicated to her profession, continuing to serve her loyal clients while inspiring many with her extraordinary journey. She received the recognition on March 5 in Nakagawa, Tochigi Prefecture, where she still runs her barbershop.

Hakoishi’s journey began in 1931 when she moved to Tokyo to train as a barber. By the age of 20, she obtained her barber’s license and later opened a barbershop with her husband in 1939. However, World War II brought immense tragedy when her husband passed away, and their salon was destroyed in an air raid.

Refusing to give up, Hakoishi rebuilt her life and opened another barbershop in Nakagawa in 1953. Even today, she continues to serve a small group of loyal clients. “I have no plans to stop working,” she said, proving that age is just a number when it comes to passion and dedication.

Hakoishi’s determination goes beyond her work as a barber. In 2020, she was chosen as a torchbearer for the Tokyo Olympics. To prepare, she walked over 1,000 steps every day while carrying a pole as heavy as the Olympic torch. Remembering the moment, she said, “When I raised the torch, I felt truly alive.”

Her journey has not been easy. In 1939, she and her husband opened a barbershop in Tokyo. But during World War II, she lost her husband, and their shop was destroyed in an air raid. Despite this tragedy, she never gave up. In 1953, she moved back to Nakagawa and opened a new barbershop. Even at 108 years old, she still serves her loyal customers every month. “I have no plans to stop working,” she said.

Hakoishi’s achievement was celebrated in a special ceremony attended by her children. Her son, who followed in her footsteps as a barber and even wrote a book about her life, and her daughter, who supports people with disabilities while living with cerebral palsy, were both there to honour her milestone.

Overwhelmed with joy, Hakoishi expressed her gratitude, saying, “I’m truly happy and thankful to everyone in the community. Life has been full of struggles, but now I feel blessed. I will continue working as long as I can.”

She also shared her life philosophy, which has helped her stay positive: “Hold no grudges, feel no jealousy, and avoid arguments.”

Her story has inspired many on social media. One user commented, “It’s not just about living long; having a purpose every day is key.” Another added, “She’s not only reached an incredible age but remains sharp, active, and engaged. That’s truly inspiring.”

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