You may not notice this when you’re walking down the streets of Tokyo but there is one big thing missing…

…or should I say many little things?

What, you ask?

Well, just pop into a convenience store (conbini), grab a rice ball (onigiri) and a canned coffee (cohi) and head on outside.

Still don`t know?

Then sit down, take a rest and enjoy your little snack.

Afterwards, head for your nearest trash receptacle….

What’s that you say?

Oh right!  They DON`T HAVE trash cans in public in Tokyo and most likely most of the country as well!

Unbelievable, right?! Especially for Tokyo, a city of 13 million people – burbs included, to not have trash cans brings imagines to mind of complete and utter chaos!  Granted in train stations, you probably will be able to find a recycling bin for your PET bottles or aluminium cans or if it happens to be your lucky day, you might run across an “other trash” bin but it’s unlucky.  How do they do it, you ask?  To be honest, I’m not really sure considering the fact that a typical purchase entails shatter-proof wrapping and at least three bags – but that’s for another post.  Perhaps it is achieved with signs like the one below.  This sign is located at the base of the Mt. Takao cable car station.  The sign reads: “Along with our memories, let`s take our trash home!”  Gotta love Japan.