WATERWAYS IN JAPAN – Clean, Clear & Sustainable

In many Japanese cities and eco-friendly towns, streets are kept extremely clean and sustainable — not just by municipal workers but also by local residents and school children, who take pride in their surroundings. This strong sense of community responsibility and environmental awareness helps keep public spaces litter-free and safe.

As a result, even during heavy rains or urban flooding, the water flowing through smart drainage systems and streets is often surprisingly clear and free of garbage. This is quite different from what we see in many other countries, where floodwaters carry plastic, waste, and pollution.

In towns like Shimabara City and Gujo Hachiman, small urban canals are so clean that locals keep koi fish (beautiful ornamental fish) in them. These fish can only survive in clean water, which shows how well these areas are maintained. The koi fish not only beautify the space but also promote a sense of green living and eco-tourism.

– Info from Knowledge Junction