Longevity in Action: The 91-Year-Old Weaver Redefining Aging

In recent years, discussions about the "100-year life" era have raised concerns about staying active and healthy in one's twilight years. Japanese women, known for their longevity, are especially attuned to these issues.

The film adaptation of Aiko Sato's essay Kyujussai: Naniga Medetai (Ninety Years Old: What's There to Celebrate?) has shined a light on women in their 90s and beyond, portraying them as inspiring examples of graceful aging. One such role model is Kazuko Sato, a 91-year-old textile artist dedicated to the craft of shifu (woven paper textiles). Earlier in 2024, she was invited to speak at the British Museum in London and is currently holding a solo exhibition in Tokyo.

*Kazuko Sato weaving shifu. (©Gallery Minami Seisakusho)*

'Full of Energy'

"When I'm weaving, I don't feel shoulder or back pain. My seniors used to say the same thing —you're using both your hands and feet, so it's like a full-body workout," Sato shares.

She raised three sons and two daughters and lost her husband five years ago. Now, she lives in Fukushima City with her 55-year-old son, who has Down syndrome. Without the help of a caregiver, she manages all the household chores while continuing to create, study, and pass down traditional weaving techniques.

*Kazuko Sato giving a lecture at Gallery Minami Seisakusho during her solo exhibition on September 28. (©Sankei by Akiko Shigematsu)*

From September 21 to October 14, except on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, the exhibition "Kazuko Sato's Work: Shima-cho, Shifu, and Kamiko" is on display at Gallery Minami Seisakusho, a converted factory in Ota Ward.

The gallery's owner, Keiko Minakuchi, organized the exhibition not only to showcase Sato's extraordinary work but also to celebrate her warm, cheerful personality and strong sense of independence.

"She's full of energy and brings a refreshing presence," says Minakuchi. "And she's an amazing cook. The pickles she made for me were unbelievably delicious."

The Ideal Successor

Born in Kitakata City, Fukushima Prefecture, Kazuko Sato graduated from Tokyo Kasei University's junior college division. She later joined the Kurashiki Honzome Teori Kenkyujo (a research institute for traditional dyeing and weaving) in Okayama Prefecture, where she was influenced by art critic Yanagi Soetsu's mingei (folk craft) philosophy.

Meanwhile, Kazuko's future father-in-law, Chutaro Sato, was renowned for reviving shifu, a traditional paper-weaving technique passed down by the Date clan in Shiroishi City, Miyagi Prefecture. Kazuko married Chutaro's eldest son, Tadashi, and became the ideal successor.

A weaving loom with a work in progress, featuring vertical threads of cotton and linen, and horizontal threads of paper. The fabric is planned to become a room divider or tablecloth. (©Gallery Minami Seisakusho)

"Chutaro was so absorbed in his paper cloth weaving research that he didn't make any money," Sato recalls. "My mother-in-law supported the family by teaching tea ceremony and flower arranging, while my husband held a regular office job to help make ends meet." Sato herself taught weaving courses at the junior college in the area where she lived.

In June, Kazuko Sato was invited to the British Museum, through a connection with a former British exchange student she had taught, to give a lecture on shifu weaving from Shiroishi City — a craft she has dedicated 65 years to mastering. Her presentation captivated the audience.

*Kimono made of Chirimen Shifu (crepe paper fabric) with silk warp and paper weft, created by Sato in 2005. (©Gallery Minami Seisakusho)*

At her solo exhibition in Tokyo, Sato is displaying her own works alongside over 30 other pieces, including rare shima-cho (fabric pattern samples) she has collected throughout her career. She also showcases kamiko (kimono made from washi) and valuable historical documents left by Chutaro. "I hope visitors take their time to appreciate the intricate details and techniques in each piece," Sato says.

*Jinbei made of "morojifu" fabric with vertical and horizontal paper threads. Produced in 1974. (©Gallery Minami Seisakusho)*

Books by 'Ordinary' Women

Over the past two years, Japanese publisher Takarajimasha has published five books written by women aged 75 and older. Among them, Hiroko Osaki's Hachijukyu-sai Hitorigurashi: Okanega Nakutemo Shiawase na Hibino Tsukurikata (Living Alone at 89: How to Create a Happy Life Without Much Money) has been especially successful. It has sold over 50,000 copies and is now in its 10th printing. Additionally, Osaki has gained considerable popularity on Twitter since she started using the platform at 78.

*Cover of Hiroko Osaki's "Hachijukyu-sai Hitorigurashi: Okanega Nakutemo Shiawase na Hibino Tsukurikata" (Living Alone at 89: How to Create a Happy Life Without Much Money)*

The book's editor, 31-year-old Saki Tanaka says, "People are inspired by how these women find joy in hobbies that suit their lifestyles and maintain a positive attitude. Elderly women who embrace life have become a symbol of hope for many."

These books offer more than just life stories — they provide practical tips on healthy eating and exercise habits. The goal is not only to share longevity advice but to offer insights into living fulfilling lives in the era of 100-year lifespans. These works emphasize the importance of staying cheerful and content, with the authors' words providing warmth and inspiration to readers.

Unlike distant celebrity figures, grounded and strong-willed seniors like these women can serve as role models for younger generations, perhaps even challenging the stereotypes associated with the word "oba-chan" (old lady).

(Read the article in Japanese.)

Author: Akiko Shigematsu, The Sankei Shimbun