Vandalism Is Nearly Nonexistent
Graffiti and property damage are sadly common in many cities around the world. But in Japan, public vandalism is incredibly rare. Even in major cities, you’ll find spotless streets, unsmudged signs, and pristine public restrooms.
To foreigners, this seems too good to be true. What’s stopping people from acting out?
The answer lies in strong social pressure, a sense of shared space, and a cultural mindset that prizes order and harmony over individual rebellion. Here, public respect trumps private impulse.