Before her death, Japan's Shigeko reveals secret to living 115 years

Shigeko Kagawa, Japan's oldest woman, has passed away at the age of 115. Before her death, she shared the simple secret to her long life.

According to her, regular walking and keeping her brain active helped her achieve such a long life. Following a routine and living a normal daily life were also part of her lifestyle.

Shigeko Kagawa, a resident of Yamatokoriyama City in Nara Prefecture, passed away Thursday at the age of 115 years and 91 days, reports The Independent.

Regarding longevity, she said that walking and using her brain helped her stay healthy for so long. Her family members said she ate three moderate meals daily and followed a regular routine.

Kagawa became Japan's oldest living person after the death of a 114-year-old woman in Nakatsu City, Oita Prefecture, on July 29, 2025.
Shigeko (R) in her young ages. Collected photo.
Born on May 28, 1911, Kagawa graduated in medicine from Osaka Women's Medical College in 1934. The institution is now known as Kansai Medical University.

Later, she established her own medical practice in Yamatokoriyama. She worked as an obstetrician and gynecologist until the 1980s. She also worked specifically on cholera treatment.

Kagawa married in 1947. The following year, a daughter was born. Later, her family grew with grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Even after retiring from the medical profession, Kagawa made history. In April 2021, at the age of 109 years and 10 months, she carried the Olympic torch for the Tokyo Games. She was the oldest Olympic torchbearer in history.

At that time, she said, "I never thought everyone would encourage me. I am very happy."

A report from 2025 highlighted various aspects of Kagawa's good health and daily life. Despite her advanced age, she had no chronic illnesses. She also did not take any medication. Although her hearing had diminished somewhat, she could speak clearly. She also had good eyesight for watching television and reading newspapers.

When asked about the secret to her long life, Kagawa said, "Walking and using my brain."

During her time as a doctor, she used to visit patients' homes to provide treatment. Upon receiving calls at the clinic, she would walk to patients even from far away.

Kagawa mentioned that she would walk in wooden geta sandals all the way to the Yatayama area. This strengthened her legs. She considered her habit of walking a lot since childhood as one of the key sources of vitality for her long life.

Even in old age, Kagawa kept her brain active. She regularly practiced beautiful calligraphy. Additionally, she solved picture-difference puzzles.

Her family members also believed that her simple and routine lifestyle was one of the key reasons for her long life. There were no major changes in her daily life. Though she didn't eat excessively, she had three regular meals. She went to bed and woke up at fixed times. Then she just carried out her normal daily activities.

Following Kagawa's death, Japan's oldest living person is now 114-year-old Fuyo Kishimoto, who lives in Kyoto.