Japanese fans clean stadium after World Cup victory in Mexico

Following Japan's decisive 4-0 victory against Tunisia in the 1000th World Cup match, Japanese supporters remained in the stands of Monterrey Stadium to meticulously clean up the litter left behind. This act, known in Japan as 'Gomi Hiroi' (literally 'trash collection'), is a reflection of a deeply ingrained cultural value emphasizing responsibility for public spaces.

Ken Okawa, a 30-year-old fan attending his first World Cup match, was seen collecting cups and other debris around his seat. He explained his actions as a way to express gratitude for the warm welcome received in Mexico, stating, "We are guests in Mexico and we have been wonderfully welcomed. This is my way of expressing my gratitude."

This habit is instilled from a young age in Japan, where students are taught to clean their own classrooms. Miko Takia, 41, considers the practice an integral part of her identity. "It's naturally part of our culture. We do it so that the places are left clean for the next people to use them in the best conditions," she affirmed.

Images of Japanese fans cleaning stadiums after matches have circulated widely on social media and in media outlets since the start of the tournament. In response to the Japanese fans' practice, Samuel García, the governor of Nuevo León, reportedly distributed 20,000 trash bags throughout the stadium and other public areas. While this behavior continues to draw admiration globally, many Japanese fans insist it is simply normal conduct in their country. "In Japan, it goes without saying," summarized Ichiro Oyo, 27. For Ryo Matsuoka, 32, seeing this aspect of Japanese culture highlighted internationally is a source of immense pride. "Showing this behavior in a stadium where people from all over the world are watching us is something we can be very proud of," he concluded.