Why Do Japanese Students Clean Their Own Classrooms?

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November 08 2026

Japanese students clean their classrooms and school spaces as part of their daily routine


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The practice is known as souji and teaches children cleanliness and responsibility


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Students sweep floors, wipe desks, clean blackboards and arrange classroom furniture


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Students work in small groups, with each group assigned different cleaning duties


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Cleaning together teaches students teamwork, cooperation and sharing responsibilities


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Students learn that keeping their surroundings clean is everyone's responsibility


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Depending on the school, students also clean corridors, staircases and common areas


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Students take turns performing different cleaning tasks so everyone participates


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Many schools set aside time for cleaning, often after lunch or regular classes


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Teachers supervise the activity and guide students in completing their duties


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