Look down

It is so easy to focus on where you are going and not pay that much attention to the journey.  I do it all the time.  I stare at my GPS and signs as I get from Point A to Point B.  But, more often than not, you'll often be surprised as how much the journey has to offer.

When my mom came to visit me in Japan 15 years ago, she wanted to photograph everything.  I was beyond embarrassed and even chided her for her efforts.  I didn't want to stop.  I wanted to forge ahead and get to where we were going.  I forgot that this was her vacation and her first time in Japan.  She wanted to savor every moment and every memory.  All this time later, I finally get it - the importance of slowing down and enjoying the moment.

One of the things that she wanted to photograph was the manhole covers.  I knew they were neat, but I saw them everyday.  Why did she want a picture of something that people walked all over on a daily basis?  Answer - because in Japan they are truly unique and beautiful.

A common or generic design found in many cities.

Each city has their own special design, reflecting important aspects of their city and the area's cultural identity.  Other popular designs display images of flora or fauna to landmarks and local festivals.  I've read that there are over 10,000 unique designs!  They started to be designed back in the 1980's when a politician wanted to raise awareness for costly sewage projects.

Hikarigaoka

Tobu (in the zoo)

Kiyose

Ueno

While most covers are monotone, but some have been filled with color.

Kawagoe

Higashi Izu

Seeking out beautiful manhole covers are so popular that there are blogs dedicated to them and even a book, "Drainspotting".  There is also an annual gathering of enthusiasts called the Manhole Summit that began in 2014, and trading cards!  This country never ceases to amaze me.

So, next time you are wandering around Japan, look down and enjoy a little piece of art that will bring an extra smile to your face during your journey from here to there.  I wish I had given my mom more time to admire the covers.  Little did I know she was part of a huge fan base.