Dallas: A Japanese woman urged a man picking up trash at the World Cup stadium, "Please do this at home too," highlighting a call for change in domestic habits. Images of Japanese football fans cleaning up stadium seats after their opening match of the 2026 World Cup against the Netherlands have gained global attention. However, this act of generosity has also sparked discussions back home.
According to Thai News Agency, the images of Japanese fans, predominantly men, meticulously tidying up the stadium following their team's 2-2 draw in Dallas, have gone viral worldwide. A poster in a Japanese subway station has also garnered attention, showing a man lounging at home while his wife is busy with household chores. The poster's caption reads, "Please do it at home," urging men to contribute more to domestic responsibilities.
This situation underscores the gender gap in Japan regarding household duties. Data from the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) reveals that Japanese men spend minimal time on unpaid housework and caregiving compared to their global counterparts. Japanese women average 3 hours and 24 minutes daily on housework, while men contribute only 50 minutes. In households with young children or single-parent families, women often shoulder up to 7 hours of housework daily, with men contributing less than 2 hours.
Many netizens have commented on the issue, noting that while these young men aim to project an image of cleanliness abroad, they may neglect household responsibilities. Criticism extends beyond gender equality, touching on Japan's culture of cleanliness, which some argue is driven by social pressure rather than genuine commitment. Despite the admirable public behavior, litter can often be found in Japan after major events or in secluded areas, suggesting a focus on appearances over overall public satisfaction.