The Kyoto Prefecture man recognized by Guinness World Records as the world's oldest person turned 116 on Friday, receiving congratulations from Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and others.
Jiroemon Kimura, of the city of Kyotango, received congratulatory messages at his home via Facebook and email, including from Mayor Yasushi Nakayama. He also received a certificate from Guinness recognizing him as the world's oldest person.
"Mr. Kimura's good health is the confidence and pride of Japan. Please keep well," Prime Minister Abe said in a video message.
Kimura, who lives with his grandson's 60-year-old wife, has been hospitalized twice since late last year but was discharged most recently April 9.
He benefits from a nursing service and short stay program at a care facility. He eats three meals a day, including porridge and mashed sweet potatoes.
Born on April 19, 1897, Kimura became the world's oldest living person on Dec. 17 when the previous record-holder, an American woman, died. He then set a record for longevity among males on Dec. 28 when he marked 115 years and 253 days of life.