Aakanksha Monga Uncovers Japan’s Hidden Street Art: The Story Behind Its Manhole Covers

Travel influencer and content creator Aakanksha Monga has shared a surprising discovery from Japan, something most tourists overlook. Beneath Japan’s busy streets lies a world of art and meaning: its beautifully designed manhole covers. While visitors are often drawn to sushi trains, bullet trains, and neon-lit streets, Aakanksha points out that the real story of Japan’s pride and culture lies quietly underfoot.

Art Beneath Your Feet

Japan has over 12 million manhole covers, and thousands of them are transformed into art. Each cover is unique, decorated with images of Mt. Fuji, cherry blossoms, local mascots, Pokémon, and even glow-in-the-dark patterns. Every design represents the spirit and history of the city it belongs to. What looks like a regular utility cover is, in reality, a public art installation celebrating local heritage and creativity.

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More Than Just a Tourist Attraction

These covers are not just for show. They symbolise something deeper, respect for every kind of work. In Japan, even those working in sewage and sanitation are honoured through art and design. It’s a reminder that no job is small or unworthy. There are even festivals and trading cards dedicated to these manholes, showing how much they are loved and celebrated across the country.

Respect in Everyday Work

Aakanksha connects this idea to another example from Japan, the bullet train cleaning teams. These workers clean entire trains in just seven minutes, and passengers often applaud their speed and precision. Their work is treated like a performance, filled with pride and respect. This attitude reflects a deep cultural value, taking dignity in every task, no matter how ordinary it may seem.

A Lesson for Every City

Aakanksha says this tradition carries a powerful message for the rest of the world. If every city started celebrating its workers and infrastructure the way Japan does, people might care more about their surroundings. Turning something as simple as a manhole cover into art can inspire a sense of ownership, creativity, and appreciation for everyday heroes.

A Message for Travellers

So, the next time you visit Japan, don’t just look up at the neon lights, look down. You might find a story waiting under your feet, carved beautifully into a manhole cover, teaching you a quiet lesson about respect and pride in work.

Who Is Aakanksha Monga?

Aakanksha Monga was born in Delhi on February 3, 1997. She is a well-known travel content creator and the founder of TravelAMore, a platform where she shares budget-friendly travel tips, sustainable travel ideas, and unique experiences. Aakanksha focuses on making travel accessible, eco-friendly, and meaningful, and she has collaborated with several major travel and lifestyle brands.

Read her full story HERE!