Aakansha Monga Instagram – Did you know?😱😳
When you think of Japan, you probably imagine robots, sushi trains, or neon lights.
But the real surprise is right under your feet.
Japan has over 12 million manhole covers, and thousands of them are decorated with unique designs. 🌸 From Mt. Fuji to local flowers, mascots, Pokémon, and even glowing covers at night — each one tells a story. Cities use them to show off their history, nature, or culture. Some towns even host manhole cover festivals, and yes… there are trading cards for them too!
But here’s the part that really hit me: this isn’t about tourism. It’s about respect.
In Japan, no job is considered “low” or “dirty.” Even the workers who deal with sewage are shown dignity through design. And this respect extends beyond manholes. If you’ve ever taken the bullet train, you’ll know about the train cleaning teams who finish their work in 7 minutes — and they’re treated like performers, with passengers applauding their speed and precision.
This is the cultural thread — pride in every kind of work, no matter how hidden or humble. By turning something ordinary into art or ritual, people notice it, appreciate it, and treat it with care.
Imagine if we did this everywhere. If our cities celebrated the people who keep them running. Maybe we’d respect workers more, and maybe we’d all keep our streets cleaner.
So next time you’re in Japan, don’t just look up at the lights. Look down. You might just find art — and a lesson in respect. | Posted on 06/Oct/2025 16:03:30
