Shitsui Hakoishi, a 108-year-old woman from Japan, has been officially recognised as the world’s oldest barber by Guinness World Records.
Born in 1916, Hakoishi began her career at the young age of 14 when a friend's mother invited her to become an apprentice at a Tokyo hair salon. Hakoishi has since pledged to continue her work until at least the age of 110.
At a recent celebration ceremony in Nakagawa, a town in Tochigi, Hakoishi, still wielding her own scissors, expressed her joy, stating, “I’m very happy. My heart is full.” The event was reportedly 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 divided into male and female categories.
The title previously held by Anthony Mancinelli, the oldest male barber who worked in New York until he was 107, has been vacated after his passing.
Hakoishi's life has been marked by perseverance and resilience. She married in her early 20s and opened a salon with her husband, but he was conscripted during World War II and died.
The salon, which also served as the family home, was destroyed during the bombing of Tokyo by the US military.
Hakoishi and her children survived as they had evacuated to her hometown of Nakagawa.
Several years after the war, Hakoishi opened a new salon in Nakagawa, where she continues to work today, receiving calls from old clients who wish to book haircuts. Despite now residing in a care home, she remains self-sufficient.
In 2021, Hakoishi had the honour of being one of the torchbearers for the Tokyo Olympics, walking approximately 200 metres, as reported by regional broadcaster Tochigi TV.
When asked about her future, Hakoishi expressed her determination to continue her work. “I turn 109 this year, but I want to work hard until 110,” she said.
