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112-year-old Japanese recognised as world’s oldest man enjoys samurai shows and hot baths

Masazo Nonaka, who was born on July 25, 1905 – just months before Albert Einstein published his theory of special relativity – received a certificate from Guinness World Records

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Japanese Masazo Nonaka, who was born 112 years and 259 days ago, eats his favourite cake. Photo: Kyodo

Masazo Nonaka has enjoyed soaking in northern Japan’s hot springs for many years – probably longer than most people.

The supercentenarian, whose family has run a hot springs inn for four generations, was certified Tuesday as the world’s oldest living man, at age 112 years, 259 days.

Nonaka received the certificate from Guinness World Records in a ceremony at his home in Ashoro, on Japan’s northern main island of Hokkaido, and celebrated the recognition with a big cake.

Born on July 25, 1905, Nonaka grew up in a large family and succeeded his parents running the inn. The 105-year-old inn is now run by his granddaughter Yuko. He regularly soaks in the springs and also enjoys eating sweets, especially cakes.

Nonaka, wearing a knit cap and a kimono-style jacket, flashed a smile and posed for a group photo with his family, making a victory sign with his right hand.

Japanese Masazo Nonaka, who was born 112 years and 259 days ago, receives a Guinness World Records certificate naming him the world's oldest man. Photo: Kyodo
Japanese Masazo Nonaka, who was born 112 years and 259 days ago, receives a Guinness World Records certificate naming him the world's oldest man. Photo: Kyodo

He dug into the cake after it was cut and served, and said, “Delicious,” according to NHK public television.

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