In Nago City, Okinawa, a remarkable couple is making headlines for their incredible work ethic and longevity. Meet 95-year-old Genji Kinjou and his 97-year-old wife, Fumiko Kinjou, who have earned the title of the oldest working married couple, as recognized by the Guinness World Records.

According to reports from Ryukyu Shimpo, the couple’s combined age of 192 years and 267 days set the new world record. Genji expressed his joy at this achievement, saying he feels very happy about it.

Despite being well into their 90s, the Kinjous work diligently at their ramen shop every day except for Monday, starting at 10 AM. Fumiko is responsible for placing noodles in each bowl, while Genji tops them with their specially simmered spare ribs. Genji’s warm welcome for customers and his quick directions to staff make it hard to believe he is in his advanced years.

The journey to this Guinness World Record began about three years ago when their grandson suggested they apply. After several communications with Guinness World Records, they officially received their recognition on June 9 of this year. It wasn’t until September that the couple received their certification from the UK, which formally informed them of their achievement.

Fumiko shared her surprise at being recognized for such a distinction, saying, “I really couldn’t believe it. It was a shock!” She expressed gratitude for their many customers and vowed to continue their hard work.

Genji’s entrepreneurial journey began when he left his corporate job at the age of 30 to open a store selling meat and fresh fish in the Ibu district of Nago City. Faced with the challenge of waste from unsold spare ribs, he took a friend’s advice to try serving them over noodles, which led to a new popular menu item.

In 1966, Genji opened a small Okinawan noodle shop, which has evolved over the last 58 years into nine locations across Okinawa City and Naha, now managed by their descendants.

Looking ahead, Genji expressed his hopes to keep the spare rib ramen popular. He stated, “As long as I stay healthy, I plan to continue working in the shop,” promising that he and Fumiko will keep their record alive for as long as possible.