Late-night host Jimmy Kimmel recently shared his eye-opening experience of hygiene standards in Japan, highlighting a stark contrast to cleanliness practices in the US. Kimmel humorously remarked that his perception of cleanliness shifted significantly after his seven-day family trip to Japan, where he found the US to be comparatively lacking in hygiene.
During an episode of 'Jimmy Kimmel Live,' he expressed amazement at the impeccable cleanliness of Japanese bathrooms, noting that they surpassed even the standards of operating rooms in the US. Kimmel praised the cleanliness of bathrooms in Tokyo and Kyoto, emphasizing that even truck stop facilities in Japan were exceptionally clean.
He humorously compared the cleanliness of Japan to a theme park, contrasting it with the US as a less pristine environment. Kimmel marveled at the Japanese practice of maintaining cleanliness despite the removal of public trash cans following the 1995 sarin gas attacks, highlighting the cultural emphasis on personal responsibility for cleanliness.
Japan's reputation for cleanliness extends beyond bathrooms, with the country known for its advanced toilet technology that includes features like automatic bidets, heated seats, and sound systems. The focus on cleanliness is evident in various aspects of Japanese society, as seen during the 2022 FIFA World Cup when the Japanese national team and fans garnered praise for their tidiness and respect for public spaces.
Japan's commitment to cleanliness has also contributed to its tourism appeal, with a surge in visitor arrivals and spending. The country's tourism industry is experiencing a robust post-pandemic recovery, with a significant increase in monthly visitor arrivals surpassing pre-pandemic levels.
