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【国際交流PRアソシエイトからの発信★】Manhole Cover Card (マンホールカード)

存在は知っていても、どこでもらえるのか、どこにあるのかよくわかっていなかったマンホールカードのことを、留学生のRittさんがまとめてくれました。

とたんにマンホールカードのことが気になりはじめました。御朱印、ダムカードとともに集め始めてみようかな...。

Although I knew about their existence, I never really understood where to get manhole cards or where they were. But Ritt, an international student, put together some helpful information about them. I suddenly found myself getting really interested in manhole cards. I'm thinking of starting to collect them, along with goshuin (temple and shrine stamp books) and dam cards (collector cards distributed at dams across Japan).

Manhole Cover Card (マンホールカード)

When people think of collectibles in Japan, they often picture capsule toys from Gachapon machines, character merchandise, or seasonal souvenirs. But one of the country's most surprising and charming collectible trends isn't found in stores--it's found beneath the streets: manhole cards.

While studying at Iwate University or visiting Japan, collecting manhole cards can be a fun and rewarding challenge. Have you ever heard of them? Manholes in Japan play a crucial role in accessing and maintaining the underground sewage system, but they've also become unexpected canvases for public art. Since the 1980s, the Japanese government has encouraged local municipalities to design unique manhole covers as part of a national initiative to raise public awareness and appreciation of sewage services. The result? Over 10,000 different manhole cover designs across the country, many featuring regional icons, traditional motifs, landscapes, or beloved local mascots. These covers are now not just practical--they also express local pride and creativity.

To promote this unique fusion of infrastructure and artistry, the Gesuido Koho Platform (GKP)--a group formed by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport, and Tourism along with the Japan Association of Wastewater Treatment Plants--launched the Manhole Card Project. Each card features a photo of a specific manhole cover on the front, along with its exact geographic coordinates. On the back, you'll find background information about the design and its cultural or historical significance. These cards are free to collect from designated locations such as sewage treatment plants or tourist information centers, with the condition that only one card is given per person per location.

Despite their humble subject matter, manhole cards have gained a surprisingly strong following. Some limited editions run out within weeks of release and are quickly reprinted due to high demand. Their standardized format and the joy of hunting them down in different regions make them highly collectible. What starts as a casual interest often turns into a nationwide scavenger hunt.

Here in Morioka, our city offers three unique manhole cards, each highlighting a different aspect of the region. If you're curious, the official website (https://www.gk-p.jp/mhcard/?pref=03#mhcard_result) provides detailed information on where to find each card, making it easy to add this quirky activity to your sightseeing plans.

Collecting manhole cards is more than just a niche hobby, it's a cultural journey. It encourages exploration, reveals hidden artistic gems in everyday infrastructure, and fosters a deeper appreciation for the communities behind these public artworks. In a country where even the most functional elements are crafted with care and creativity, manhole covers are a beautiful reminder that art can be found in the most unexpected places. This is one of the many fun ways to explore Japan while studying here--why not give it a try?