https://longeviquest.com/2026/06/terumi-kanao-oldest-resident-of-kochi-prefecture-japan-dies-at-111/

Terumi Kanao, Oldest Resident of Kochi Prefecture, Japan, Dies at 111

Terumi Kanao (Japanise: 金尾輝美), the oldest resident of Kochi Prefecture, Japan, passed away from pneumonia on 14 June 2026 at the age of 111 years and 359 days. She died at the hospital where she had been residing.

According to her family, Kanao remained relatively healthy until developing pneumonia. She occasionally spoke with family members living far away through video calls.

Kanao was born on 20 June 1914 in Ikegawa, Kochi Prefecture, Japan, as one of thirteen siblings. In her early twenties, she married a man four years her senior. While helping with farm work and operating a tofu shop, she raised six children.

In a November 2024 interview with LongeviQuest, her family shared several factors that may have contributed to her long life. These included a simple, health-conscious diet featuring traditional Japanese foods such as pickled plums (umeboshi) and grilled fish, while avoiding processed meats. She also regularly consumed Yomeishu, a traditional Japanese herbal tonic made with herbal ingredients and alcohol, until around the age of 106.

Beyond her dietary habits, her family highlighted her deep religious faith, cheerful and optimistic personality, mental resilience, and sociability. They also emphasized her diligence and meticulous nature, noting that she remained committed to keeping her home clean and organized throughout her life.

Rest in peace.