If you've ever traveled to Japan, you might have noticed something peculiar: the scarcity of public trash cans. It's a curious phenomenon, especially in a country renowned for its cleanliness and meticulous attention to public order. So, why is it so difficult to find a trash can in Japan? Let’s explore the reasons behind this unique aspect of Japanese society.

Personal Responsibility and Societal Norms

One of the fundamental reasons is rooted in the Japanese cultural mindset of personal responsibility. In Japan, individuals are expected to take care of their own waste. This practice is part of a broader cultural emphasis on personal accountability. This approach ensures that public spaces remain clean and that individuals remain conscious of their waste habits. The lack of public trash cans is also a testament to the Japanese dedication to cleanliness and public order. This can be attributed to the strong societal norms that discourage littering and promote cleanliness. Public cleanliness is a shared value, and individuals take pride in maintaining the beauty and orderliness of their surroundings.

Efficient Waste Management System

Japan has one of the most efficient waste management systems in the world. Japan's garbage classification is very detailed. For example, there are countless types of paper classification, such as toilet paper, cake packaging, writing paper, etc. Japanese garbage trucks only collect a few types of garbage daily: paper garbage today, plastic garbage tomorrow, glass garbage the day after tomorrow, and so on, which are very meticulous. So if there are enough garbage bins, some people who do not regularly sort their garbage will throw it into the public garbage bin, which will increase the cost of management. By encouraging people to manage their waste at home, the system remains efficient and effective.

Animal Foraging Problem

After coming to Japan, you will find that the crows here always walk around the garbage dump. After you throw away the garbage, they immediately fly there and search for food. Often, the garbage dump is left in a mess by crows. Although it is a major scourge, few people try to eliminate them, usually just to drive them away. In order to prevent animals such as crows and wildcats from scattering garbage and emitting foul odors while searching for food, the number of garbage bins is decreasing.

The 1995 Sarin Gas Attack

One of the most significant events that contributed to the scarcity of public trash cans in Japan was the 1995 sarin gas attack on the Tokyo subway. The deadly attack, carried out by the Aum Shinrikyo cult, involved the use of sarin gas that was placed in public areas, including trash cans. In response to this tragic incident, many public trash cans were removed as a precautionary measure to prevent similar attacks in the future. The impact of this event is still felt today, as the fear of potential terrorist attacks continues to influence public safety measures, including the limited availability of trash cans.

Environmental Considerations

Japan’s approach to waste management also reflects its commitment to environmental sustainability. By reducing the number of public trash cans, there is less incentive for people to generate waste. The focus on recycling and proper waste disposal at home further supports environmental goals.