Why Is Japan So Clean?!

In my opinion, Japan is the cleanest country in the world! How can this be when garbage cans and recycling bins are so difficult to find? When I walk with my daughter to the train station in the early morning, we often see seniors sweeping the sidewalks or parking lots. Everywhere we go, the streets are clean, the taxis are spotless, the alleyways are empty of garbage. What is the secret?

Our Japanese friends tell us that they are taught when they are very young not to litter. They always collect their trash and keep it in a bag to dispose of at home or at their workplace. So if you are on a train, please do not leave any empty bottles, cans, wrappers, and other garbage on your seat; do not litter in the streets, parks, beaches or shopping malls. If you have any garbage, keep it with you until you return back to your accommodation.