He hates vegetables but loves to eat meat and drink milk

Daughter, Kyoko

Born in 1889, Yukichi Chuganji, lives in Fukuoka Prefecture in western Japan and was still working until two years ago.

He was told the news of his record by Guinness, publishers of the annual book of records.

Mr Chuganji attributes his longevity to healthy eating and being an optimist.

His daughter, 72-year-old Kyoko said: "He hates vegetables but loves to eat meat and drink milk."

She said his favourite meal is boiled rice mixed with bits of chicken meat.

The previous title holder, a 112-year-old Italian man, died in Sardinia in January.

Guinness lists the world's oldest woman as 115-year-old Maude Farris-Luse, who was born on 21 January 1887 in Morley, Michigan.