Jiroemon Kimura Japanese centenarian Date of Birth: 19.04.1897 Country: Japan

1. Biography of Jiroemon Kimura
2. A Life of Service
3. Recognition and Appreciation
4. The Secret to Longevity
5. A Life Well-Lived

Biography of Jiroemon Kimura

Jiroemon Kimura, a Japanese centenarian, was born in 1897 in Kyo-Tango, Kyoto, Japan. He is best known for being the oldest living man in Japan as of May 2010 and the second oldest living man in the world, after Walter Breuning, who was 113 years old at the time. Additionally, Kimura is the 23rd oldest living person in the world and the last surviving man born in 1897.

A Life of Service

Kimura worked as a postman for 40 years before retiring. After his retirement, he dedicated his time to managing his farm until he turned 90 and his legs began to weaken. Currently, Kimura spends most of his time at home but tries to maintain his physical fitness by waking up early in the morning and pedaling on his exercise bike for 100 rotations each day.

Recognition and Appreciation

Kimura received the title of the oldest living man in Japan after the death of his compatriot, Tomoji Tanabe, in June 2009. When reporters came to his home to congratulate him and conduct interviews, Kimura expressed his gratitude by saying, "Thank you very much! I am so excited!" in English. He was genuinely pleased to receive this title.

The Secret to Longevity

The oldest man in Japan attributes his long life to physical activity and a healthy, regular, and moderate diet. He believes in eating in moderation, regardless of how delicious the food may be. Kimura stays engaged with the world by keeping up with the news, receiving guests, watching television, and spending up to two hours every day reading newspapers with the help of a magnifying glass. He is particularly interested in politics, especially the strengthening of the Democratic Party in 2009, and frequently watches parliamentary sessions on television. Kimura urges politicians to put aside their differences and focus on things that are beneficial to the people. He is also interested in sumo wrestling and expresses a desire to see more Japanese sumo wrestlers in the ring.

A Life Well-Lived

Despite his declining hearing and vision, Kimura maintains his zest for life. He cherishes the support of his family and currently lives in the same house as his eldest son and his son's wife. As of September 2009, Kimura had 7 children, 15 grandchildren, 25 great-grandchildren, and 9 great-great-grandchildren. He offers advice to the younger generations, encouraging them to help one another and wishing them a happy family life. Kimura embraces each day that he is blessed with and continues to find joy in life.