World's oldest person Nabi Tajima dies in Japan aged 117

The world’s oldest person has died in Japan aged 117.

Nabi Tajima was born on August 4, 1900, and was the last surviving child of the 19th century, making her the third oldest person recorded in history.

It is understood she had more than 160 descendants, including great-great-great grandchildren.

Nabi Tajima was born on August 4, 1900, and was the last surviving child of the 19th century. (AAP)

She died in a hospital in southern Japan in the town of Kikai yesterday.

She became the world’s oldest person seven months ago after the death of Violet Brown in Jamaica, who was also aged 117.

Violet Brown, of Jamaica, died aged 117 on September 15 last year. (AAP)

According to the Gerontology Research Group in the United States, another Japanese woman, Chiyo Miyako, is now the world's oldest person.

Miyako will turn 117 in 10 days.