A man celebrating his remarkable 111st birthday credits his longevity to a daily indulgence in wine and sweets. Zhan Changcheng, a resident of Wanyao Village in southern China near Shanghai, was born on March 17, 1914. With a life spanning through major historical events such as World War I, the Warlord Era, the Second Sino-Japanese War, the Chinese Civil War, and decades of communist rule, Zhan embodies living history.
Despite his age, Zhan remains active, engaging in walks and card games with friends. Surrounded by four generations of his family, Zhan is cared for by his sons and their partners, who rotate in looking after him. His son, Zhan Yingtong, describes his father as meticulous about cleanliness and appearance, maintaining a routine of brushing his teeth thrice daily and waking up at 5 am to await breakfast after a stroll through the garden.
Known for his sweet tooth, Zhan insists on having even his white rice sweetened and reportedly consumes three to four kilograms of sugar monthly. Despite his preference for sugary treats, Zhan’s blood sugar levels remain stable, showcasing his overall good health. Zhan spent over five decades honing his craft in bamboo weaving, becoming a respected figure in the community and mentoring numerous apprentices in the art.
An avid wine enthusiast, Zhan enjoys a daily glass and is known for offering cigarettes, even though he quit smoking a few years ago at the behest of his family. Yingtong reflects on his father’s humble lifestyle, remarking that Zhan finds contentment in simplicity, cherishing a modest meal of rice and water.
Wanyao Village boasts a notable population of elderly residents, with 22 individuals aged over 90 and two surpassing the century mark. Zhan holds the distinction as the second oldest person in China, trailing behind Zhou Renqing, who is set to turn 112 on November 7.