27/07/2025
In Japan, Cleaning Classrooms Is Part of the Curriculum and the Character Building.
In Japanese schools, there's a tradition that might surprise outsiders: students clean their own classrooms, hallways, and even toilets every single day.
This isn’t a punishment or a cost-cutting tactic it’s a deeply rooted cultural practice meant to instill lifelong values in the students.
Rather than relying on janitors or cleaning staff, schools across Japan designate a short period called “souji which means “cleaning,” as part of the daily schedule.
During this time, students sometimes in rotating groups grab brooms, dustpans, rags, and mops to tidy their learning spaces together.
Yes, that includes wiping desks, scrubbing bathroom floors, and cleaning the chalkboard.
Why? Because the Japanese education system believes that responsibility, humility, and mutual respect aren’t just taught through textbooks they’re learned through action.
By cleaning up after themselves, students develop a sense of ownership over their environment and a deeper appreciation for the effort it takes to maintain it.
It also promotes equality, as everyone contributes, regardless of popularity or performance.
This daily habit doesn’t just keep schools spotless it shapes better citizens. One wipe at a time.
Source: Japanese Ministry of Education guidelines, various school case studies across Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka.