Japanese supporters stayed behind at Estadio Monterrey after their team’s 4-0 victory over Tunisia on 21 June to collect rubbish from the stands, bringing a beloved cultural tradition to the world stage in what was also the 1,000th match in World Cup history.
The practice, known in Japan as gomi hiroi, reflects a deep-rooted emphasis on collective responsibility for shared spaces. It is instilled from an early age, with Japanese schoolchildren taught to clean their own classrooms as a matter of routine. At major sporting events, the tradition has become one of the most recognisable expressions of Japanese fan culture on the international stage.
Ken Okawa, 30, attending his first ever World Cup match, said the gesture felt natural given the hospitality he had experienced in Mexico. “We are guests in Mexico. I have been treated wonderfully, so this is my way of showing my appreciation.”
Miku Takeya, 41, said tidying up after herself had simply become second nature. “It’s a natural part of our culture. We do this to ensure that everything we use is left clean so that the next person can use it comfortably.”
Others were more matter-of-fact. “It’s common sense in Japan,” said Ichiro Oyo, 27. But Ryo Matsuoka, 32, said he was proud to see the tradition reach a global audience. “I think it is a matter of great pride that this is being showcased in a stadium like this, where people from all over the world are watching.”
Ahead of the match, Nuevo Leon Governor Samuel Garcia had arranged for 20,000 rubbish bags to be distributed inside the stadium and at fan zones across the city following requests from Japanese supporters. Images of Japan fans cleaning up after World Cup matches have gone viral across social media throughout the tournament.
