InsideJapan News Network

The Miyakonojo resident who was recognised by Guinness World Records as the oldest man in the world has passed away aged 113.

Tomoji Tanabe, who was born on September 18th 1895, died in his bed with his family at his side after suffering from chronic heart problems.

Mr Tanabe credited his long life to taking strict care of his health, avoiding smoking, alcohol and unhealthy eating, and drinking a daily glass of milk.

Makoto Nagamine, mayor of Mr Tanabe's hometown, said that the late resident was "a symbol of Miyakonojo", and thanked him for making the town synonymous with longevity.

Mr Tanabe leaves behind a family which now includes 25 grandchildren, 53 great-grandchildren, and six great-great-grandchildren.

His death means that the oldest man in the world is now the 113-year-old Briton Henry Allingham, a World War I veteran born on June 6th 1896.

Last month, figures released by the World Health Organization revealed that Japan has the longest average life expectancy among women in the world.

Written by Susan Ballion