How Japan Keeps Clean

Summary

This video explores the cleanliness of Japan despite the scarcity of public garbage cans, a result of the 1995 Tokyo subway sarin attack. It delves into the Japanese culture of taking responsibility for cleanliness, from school lunches to neighborhood duties. The script highlights the role of convenience stores as waste disposal points, the 'silver jinzai' seniors in community cleanups, and the collective efforts in waste management. It also touches on the influence of Shinto and Buddhism on cleanliness practices and ends with a call to action for viewers to participate in cleaning initiatives, aligning with the global movement against plastic pollution.

Takeaways

• 🗑️ Japan is known for its cleanliness despite the scarcity of public garbage cans, a situation that arose after the 1995 Tokyo subway sarin attack which led to their removal for security reasons.
• 🏪 Convenience stores in Japan, numbering over 50,000, often provide waste disposal facilities for the public, making them key locations for trash disposal outside the home.
• 🏫 The Japanese education system instills a strong sense of personal responsibility for cleanliness from a young age, as seen in school lunchroom duties and classroom cleaning.
• 🏠 Japanese people commonly take their trash home for disposal, reflecting a cultural norm of not littering and maintaining cleanliness in public spaces.
• 👴 The 'Silver Jinzai' or senior citizens play a significant role in community cleaning, often seen tidying up public areas, and are supported by local government initiatives.
• 👷‍♂️ Many Japanese workers, including shopkeepers and construction workers, are involved in cleaning around their workplaces, viewing it as part of their job responsibilities.
• 🏘️ Neighborhoods often have garbage disposal groups where residents take turns ensuring proper waste management, including correct separation and timely collection.
• 🗑️ Waste management in Japan is efficient and reliable, with collection schedules that are consistent and rarely missed, even in extreme weather conditions.
• 🌐 The cultural emphasis on cleanliness in Japan has deep roots in Shinto and Buddhist practices, where physical and ritual cleanliness are closely linked to spiritual purity.
• 🌏 The video concludes with a call to action, challenging viewers to participate in local cleanups and contribute to global initiatives like Team Seas, which aims to remove plastic waste from the oceans.

Q & A

Why do people often comment on how clean Japan is?

Visitors to Japan often remark on its cleanliness, which might seem surprising given the relative scarcity of public garbage cans. However, the cleanliness is attributed to a combination of factors including the cultural emphasis on personal responsibility for cleanliness, the practice of taking trash home, and the involvement of individuals and communities in maintaining public spaces.

Why are there fewer garbage cans on the streets of Japan compared to the past?

The reduction in public garbage cans in Japan is a consequence of the Tokyo subway sarin attack in 1995 by a cult. As a security measure, many garbage cans were removed and have not been replaced, leading to a situation where people often take their trash home instead.

Where can one typically find a place to dispose of waste in Japan outside of their home?

Convenience stores, which are ubiquitous in Japan with over 50,000 locations, often provide waste disposal facilities. Additionally, train stations also have designated areas for waste disposal.

How do Japanese schools instill a sense of cleanliness and responsibility in students?

Japanese schools incorporate cleaning duties into the daily routine, with students being responsible for cleaning their classrooms and lunch areas. This practice fosters a sense of self-responsibility and collective duty towards cleanliness.

What role do local businesses play in maintaining cleanliness in their areas?

Local businesses often participate in cleaning initiatives, such as the 'Shinjuku Clean' group in Tokyo, where workers from various businesses take turns tidying up the streets. This demonstrates a high level of self-responsibility and community involvement in maintaining cleanliness.

How do the Japanese handle waste management at home?

In Japan, households may be part of a 'gomi tobban' or garbage collection group, where they take turns ensuring proper waste disposal. In group living situations like apartments, the responsibility for cleaning and waste management can vary, with some hiring external companies, while others organize cleaning themselves.

What is the role of 'Silver Jinzai' in maintaining public cleanliness in Japan?

Silver Jinzai, or seniors, often engage in part-time work that includes local cleanups. They are frequently seen maintaining public spaces like parks and walking paths, contributing to the overall cleanliness of communities.

How does Japan's waste collection system work?

The waste collection system in Japan is characterized by a strict schedule and high reliability. Waste management crews are responsible for picking up waste from collection points, and the public is expected to sort and prepare their waste accordingly. The system is efficient, with collections occurring even in extreme weather conditions.

What is the cultural or religious significance of cleanliness in Japan?

Cleanliness in Japan is deeply rooted in both Shinto and Buddhist practices. For Shinto priests and followers, maintaining the cleanliness of shrines is a significant part of ritual purification. Similarly, in Buddhism, cleanliness is considered a fundamental practice in the pursuit of spirituality.

How do community and group cleaning initiatives contribute to Japan's overall cleanliness?

Community and group cleaning initiatives, such as neighborhood cleanups after events or natural disasters, are common in Japan. These collective efforts, often involving residents, students, and workers, contribute to the country's overall cleanliness and foster a sense of communal responsibility.