num_pages: 96
description: In Japan modern sewer systems began to appear during the late 19th century though evidence of older sewage systems dates back to over 2000 years ago. Foreign engineers introduced the Japanese to modern underground sewer systems with above ground access points called manhoru (manholes). At first Japanese manhole covers used geometric designs similar to those used in other countries. In the 1980s when communities outside of Japan's major cities were slated to receive new sewer systems the public works projects were met with resistance  until one dedicated bureaucrat solved the problem by devising a way to make these mostly invisible systems aesthetically appreciated customized manhole covers. Because the Japanese elevate design in all aspects of life to a new level the custom covers were welcomed even though they cost more than generic ones. Today nearly 95 percent of the 1780 municipalities in Japan sport their very own specially designe
language: English
title: Drainspotting: Japanese Manhole Covers
publisher: Mark Batty Publisher