Manhole covers have become street art in Japan. It seems that those lovely lids have added color to the lives of the people here.
We are delighted to have collected these pictures of manhole covers. They are colorful and attractive. GOAT has selected some of the best manhole cover designs from around Japan for your viewing pleasure. So let's find the top 32 designs here.
What is the theme of the Japanese manhole cover?
The humble manhole cover can feel unbelievably small. But it turns out that the Japanese see them as an opportunity for works of art. One of the biggest attractions in Japan lies beneath the feet.
Japanese manhole covers with colorful designs depicting local characters or scenic and historical sites have become a popular attraction for Japanese and international tourists. A lot of beauty can literally be found underfoot.
Manhole covers in Japanese cities have a custom and unique design.
When did the attractive manhole covers in Japan appear?
This trend started in the 1980s when Japan wanted to standardize their sewer system. Up until that time, Japan used conventional geometric manhole covers similar to those used in other countries.
At the time, when communities outside of Japan's major cities were expected to adopt the new sewer system, public works projects were met with resistance. So a dedicated official solved the problem by allowing the townspeople to choose their own designs. And luckily, today, nearly 95% of the 1,780 cities in Japan have custom manhole covers.
How is the Japanese manhole cover made?
The art of manhole covers has now become a national obsession in Japan with countless city agencies vying with each other in pursuit of the perfect manhole cover. Because they are the mark and highlight of each city.
The designs are produced by a municipal foundry, where they are molded and created. The city or council will submit a concept and logo selection to the foundry. And their in-house designers would then create a design based on these specifications over and over again.
After the design is approved. The foundry then casts the prototype before performing the final casting. These manhole covers are made of metal. After the covers were cast, the carved wooden masters were kept in a huge central library.
TOP Japanese manhole cover designs definitely pleasure your viewing
The manhole cover is one of the most attractive spots in Japan located at the foot. Those are the manhole covers that are creatively and beautifully decorated.
So, we hope you enjoy these Japanese manhole cover designs. Wish you all the best!