At the remarkable age of 108, Shitsui Hakoishi has been officially certified as the world’s oldest barber by Guinness World Records, Her impressive title was confirmed by LongeviQuest., an organization that meticulously verifies records related to longevity and extraordinary human achievements.
a title that underscores her lifelong passion and dedication to her craft. Born on November 10, 1916, during the First World War, Shitsui’s journey into barbering began at just 14 years old when a friend’s mother offered her the chance to become an apprentice at a hair salon in Tokyo. With unwavering determination, she left her family’s farm in Tochigi Prefecture and ventured to the bustling city on her own. By 1934, at the age of 18, she had passed the barber examination and quickly gained a reputation for her skill and professionalism. Her career flourished, and at 24, she married Jiro, with whom she opened a salon and started a family, welcoming two children. However, tragedy struck during the Second Sino-Japanese War when Jiro was conscripted into the army and lost his life. To make matters worse, their salon, which also served as their home, was destroyed during the bombing of Tokyo by the US military. Fortunately, Shitsui and her children had evacuated to her hometown in Tochigi, where they remained safe.
After the war, Shitsui rebuilt her life and career, opening her salon, Rihatsu Hakoishi, in Nakagawa-machi in 1953. She has been working there ever since, becoming a beloved figure in her community. Her salon, nestled on the fringes of Tochigi Prefecture, is a charming space filled with vintage items, including a pair of scissors she has used since the pre-war era—a testament to her enduring dedication. Despite now living in a care home, Shitsui remains remarkably independent and continues to serve her loyal clients whenever they call for a haircut. Her resilience and commitment to her craft have made her an inspiration to many, and her story is one of perseverance, strength, and an unyielding spirit.
Shitsui’s philosophy, which she shared in an interview with Tennen-Seikatsu, has guided her through life’s challenges. She lives by the “three nevers” taught to her by her mother: never hold a grudge, never be jealous, and never fight with others. She believes that hurting others will always come back to hurt you, a principle that has shaped her interactions and relationships throughout her life. This mindset, combined with her hard work and positivity, has allowed her to overcome adversity and thrive in both her personal and professional life. In 2021, her inspiring story earned her the honor of being a Tokyo Olympics torchbearer, where she walked approximately 200 meters, symbolizing her enduring vitality and spirit.
Shitsui’s recent certification by Guinness World Records was a long-cherished goal, and she celebrated the achievement with a ceremony in Nakagawa, attended by her two children, an 85-year-old daughter and an 81-year-old son. “I’m very happy. My heart is full,” she said at the event. While the title for the oldest male barber previously belonged to Anthony Mancinelli, who worked in New York until he was 107, Shitsui now holds the record for the oldest female barber. Looking ahead, she remains as determined as ever, expressing her desire to continue working until at least 110 years old. Her story is not just one of longevity but of resilience, dedication, and an unshakable commitment to her craft. Shitsui Hakoishi’s life is a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of living by one’s principles, leaving a legacy that will undoubtedly inspire future generations.
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