Why Should You Look Down When Walking in Japan? (The Secret Art Gallery)

Last updated: February 5, 2026

Not Just Rusty Metal
In most countries, manhole covers are just boring, rusty metal circles meant to cover holes. Of course, Japan has those too. However, keep your eyes open, because suddenly, right under your feet, you will find a colorful work of art. Japan has turned sewer covers into canvas, with over 12,000 unique designs across the country.

Why Do They Do This?
The project started in the 1980s. The goal was simple: to improve the image of the expensive sewer system and to show local pride. Each town features its specialty. In Osaka, you see the famous Osaka Castle. In Nara, you see deer. It turns a dirty infrastructure into a local mascot.

A Deep Dive: Mie & Pokemon
Specific regions go even further. Recently, the “Poke-futa” (Pokemon Utility Holes) craze has taken over, with specific towns having their own “Ambassador Pokemon.” For example, the photos in this article are from Mie Prefecture, where the cute sea otter Oshawott (Mijumaru) welcomes visitors from the ground! Fans travel across Japan just to take photos of their feet with these rare covers.

The Collectors’ Mania
It has become such a popular hobby that there are now “Manhole Cards”—collectible trading cards featuring the designs and their coordinates, which you can get for free at local tourist information centers. There are even “Manhole Summits” held for fans. It is a serious subculture!

Look Down to Discover
So, while you are navigating with Google Maps, take a moment to look down. If you see a colored cover, you are standing on a masterpiece. It is the only art gallery in the world where it is okay to step on the art!

Street Mysteries You Will Face (Related Articles)
Hunting for Poke-futa involves a lot of walking. While exploring the streets, you will notice two other strange things about Japanese infrastructure.

1. Thirsty? Look for the Robots. You will find Manholes under your feet, but you will also find glowing machines on every corner—even in the countryside!
👉 Why are there 4 million of them? Check out: “Why Japan Has 4 Million Vending Machines!”

Why Japan Has 4 Million Vending Machines!

2. The “Trash” Panic You bought a drink from the machine, finished it, and looked for a bin. Suddenly, you realize… there are none.
👉 Where did they disappear? Check out: “Why Are There No Trash Cans on Japanese Streets?”