Known for its bonsai and an unusually high concentration of centenarians, Rugao, China, stands out as a longevity hotspot where residents live healthier for longer than most places on Earth.
- Rugao hosts 672 residents aged over 100, five times the global average per million.
- Resident habits like morning exercise, outdoor activity, and kindness are common.
- Studies highlight curiosity, social engagement, and diet as key longevity factors.
What happened
Rugao, a city northwest of Shanghai with an estimated population of 1.3 million, has gained recognition as a unique longevity hotspot. As of early 2026, it is home to 672 centenarians, a figure that dwarfs global averages, given that only about 88 people per million reach this milestone worldwide. This remarkable concentration makes Rugao a compelling site for studying the secrets behind aging well.
Researchers from the Chinese Academy of Sciences and international teams have investigated factors that might explain this longevity phenomenon. Earlier studies suggest the city's mineral-rich soil, influencing the nutrients in local produce, could play a role. Meanwhile, anecdotal insights from centenarians themselves highlight daily habits such as early rising, regular physical activity, and maintaining social connections as contributing elements.
Why it feels good
The residents of Rugao emphasize lifestyles filled with movement, social bonds, and a positive approach to daily routines. Many rise before dawn to exercise or take walks, engage in light chores, and stay connected with community and family — activities supported by scientific research as beneficial for healthy aging.
Studies focusing on super-agers globally, including those from Rugao, reveal that curiosity, emotional intelligence, and lower stress levels are common traits. These qualities not only enhance wellbeing but also help maintain cognitive and physical health. The city’s centenarians reinforce the idea that engaging in meaningful activities and kindness contributes to living a longer, healthier life.
What to enjoy or watch next
For those interested in exploring longevity, watching videos and interviews with Rugao's oldest residents offers insight into practical daily habits supporting long life. Residents candidly share their routines, from shopping at local markets to spending quiet time with pets, illustrating a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle.
Meanwhile, ongoing research stemming from the Rugao Longevity and Ageing Study and other investigations continues to shed light on how factors like nutrition, mental wellbeing, and even lesser-known health variables influence longevity. Following these studies provides inspiration and actionable ideas for enhancing health and happiness as we age.