Japanese manhole covers boast a kaleidoscope of colourful designs depending on locality, use and manufacturer – and in recent years have caught the attention of many avid “drainspotters” around the world. There are now numerous photo-blogs dedicated to this cult pastime. Manhole covers often feature a symbol specific to the local area. For example, covers in Kora town, Shiga, feature a turtle (a symbol of wisdom and longevity). Other covers around Japan include local landmarks, festivals, trees, myths, fireworks, boats, rivers, fairy tales, fish, sea creatures, dinosaurs, anime characters and famous Japanese people.
Remo Camerota is the author of “Drainspotting”, the first photo book on this topic (Mark Batty, publisher). His work is also available as an application for the iPad and on his blog, www.drainspottingbook.blogspot.com