If you live in Japan or planning to visit, make sure you occasionally look down otherwise you might miss something beautiful. Japan is big on art and you can find several paintings and sculptures in every city. There is one form of art that a lot of people miss, gaijin and Japanese alike.
I’ve lived in japan for almost 5 years and visited about 10 times in the last 13 years and until recently I always missed it. I’ve talked to several Japanese who’ve also never noticed. So what is this form of art that many people miss?
Manhole covers. Every city has their own unique manhole covers. I’ve started to photograph them and put them on Flickr. Now that I’ve noticed them I’m really kicking myself for not noticing them earlier. In my early years living here, I traveled a lot and I think I missed out on a lot of art.
I have found a Japanese Manhole Cover Flickr group. I strongly suggest taking a look on Flickr. Don’t miss out if you like Japanese art. Whatever city you’re in, LOOK DOWN. If you’re lucky, you may be able to find a beautifully paint one.
For more on art, culture and the regions of Japan check the GaijinPot In Japan pages.
