Japanese Innovation Leads the Way in Global Cleanliness Standards

Japan has long held a global reputation for cleanliness and hygiene. This reputation is evident in the country’s pristine streets and public spaces, as well as the general population’s diligence in maintaining cleanliness in shared spaces. Japan’s commitment to hygiene extends beyond its cultural practices, as it has also led to the adoption of state-of-the-art technologies designed to enhance sanitation and, ultimately, public health.

In recent years, Japan has spearheaded the development of modern hygiene solutions that are both timely and relevant, particularly in next-generation solutions such as artificial intelligence (AI), specialized tools, and non-contact technologies.

Contactless technologies, which minimize physical contact with surfaces, play a crucial role in reducing the transmission of germs and viruses. With the COVID-19 pandemic driving up global demand for touchless solutions, there has been a widespread adoption of technologies such as automated hand sanitizer dispensers, non-contact temperature checks, and contactless payment systems, reducing the need for physical contact in high-traffic areas.

Over the years, Japan has emerged as one of the leaders in developing touchless technologies and integrating them into everyday life. A notable innovation from Japan is Hyundai Elevator’s infrared sensor-equipped elevator buttons, which were introduced in 2021. These buttons do not require direct contact, allowing users to simply hover their hands over the sensor to activate the desired floor button. Additionally, the design improves accessibility for visually impaired individuals by ensuring that the sensors do not trigger if an object is within 1 cm of the buttons, enabling them to use the regular buttons without unintended activations. 

Source: SoftBank Robotics

With the need for sanitation maintenance in high-traffic areas growing worldwide, AI has risen as a key element in developing advanced cleaning solutions. Japanese innovations in this field are exemplified by their award-winning cleaning robots that have been widely acclaimed for their contribution to public health.

A prime example of this is SoftBank Robotics’ Whiz, an autonomous professional cleaning robot powered by the cloud-connected AI platform BrainOS. This innovation has been deployed in numerous countries outside of Japan and has garnered multiple awards in North America, including the Edison Awards and the ISSA Show Innovation Awards.

Besides autonomous robots, AI has also been integrated into the analysis of cleaning patterns, predicting high-traffic areas, and monitoring air and water quality. The WOSH unit, a self-contained, portable handwashing station developed by WOTA, is an example of this. This device is engineered to reuse 98% of its water using advanced filtration features and an AI-equipped water quality monitoring system. WOSH’s versatility and sustainable design has made it popular in public settings, including fast food restaurants, stores, and nursing facilities. The unit also features a hands-free operation, further promoting good hygiene practices.

Japan’s commitment to cleanliness extends beyond public spaces and infrastructure. The country's healthcare system and public health measures have also played a significant role in maintaining a high standard of hygiene and preventing the spread of diseases.

In fact, despite its large population, Japan demonstrated remarkable success in managing public health during the COVID-19 pandemic. Unlike many other countries, Japan did not impose strict lockdowns, yet it maintained relatively low infection rates—a feat attributed to a combination of technological innovations and deeply ingrained cultural practices. Such factors include:

• Nosocomial Infection Control: Japanese hospitals and clinics have implemented stringent protocols for hand hygiene, isolation, and disinfection to prevent the spread of infections.
• Public Health Awareness: Even in general households, there is a high level of awareness and adherence to infection control measures, as evidenced by the population’s widespread use of masks, frequent handwashing, and adherence to social distancing guidelines.
• Demand for Personal Sanitation Products: The demand for personal sanitary goods, such as sanitizing sheets and portable hand sanitizers, has remained high in Japan even after the pandemic, underscoring the public’s dedication to preventing the spread of infectious diseases.
• Government Initiatives: The Japanese government has played a supportive role in promoting public health, including implementing contact tracing systems, promoting vaccination programs, and disseminating clear public health messaging.

Japan’s high hygiene standards stem from cultural values and education. From a young age, children learn about cleanliness by regularly cleaning their own classrooms. Social norms in Japan highlight consideration for others through mask usage and hand sanitizing. It is also common practice to avoid crowded spaces during peak illness seasons. These cultural habits, combined with advanced hygiene technologies, contribute to Japan’s effective infection prevention measures.

Japan continues to set a global standard for hygiene, which is evident in both its cultural practices and technological innovations. The lessons learned from their innovations—be it their cleaning robots, non-contact technologies, or sustainable handwashing systems—can inspire similar initiatives worldwide and contribute to public health and safety. As the importance of hygiene continues to grow, Japan’s approach provides a model for how technology and values can work together to shape a cleaner, healthier future.