Only Japan could turn a World Cup street party into a masterclass in order (VIDEO)

TOKYO, June 22 — As the final whistle sounded on the Samurai Blue’s commanding 4-0 victory over Tunisia in Monterrey yesterday, thousands of jubilant supporters poured into Tokyo’s famous Shibuya Crossing.

Police stood by to manage the swelling crowds as fans waved flags, sang in celebration and basked in one of Japan’s biggest World Cup wins.

Yet, in a scene that has become almost as synonymous with Japan’s football culture as the team itself, the celebrations unfolded with remarkable order.

Rather than surging uncontrollably into the streets, supporters waited for pedestrian lights to turn green before spilling into the iconic intersection.

After a few moments of chanting and celebration, they calmly cleared the crossing to allow traffic to resume, repeating the ritual each time the lights changed.

The orderly scenes have become a defining image of Japan’s World Cup campaigns, offering a striking contrast to the chaotic street parties often seen after major football victories elsewhere in the world.

The celebrations came after Hajime Moriyasu’s side delivered a statement performance against Tunisia, with Ayase Ueda scoring twice while Daichi Kamada and Junya Ito also found the net in the tournament’s 1,000th World Cup match.

It was the first time Japan had scored four goals in a men’s World Cup game, giving supporters plenty of reason to dream as the knockout stages edge closer.

Their sense of respect was also on display thousands of kilometres away in Mexico.

After the final whistle at Estadio Monterrey, Japanese fans once again remained in the stands armed with their familiar blue rubbish bags, collecting litter before leaving the stadium.

The custom, known as gomi hiroi, has become an enduring symbol of Japan’s football supporters and has repeatedly drawn admiration at international tournaments.

The tradition has occasionally sparked debate, with some critics questioning whether it has become performative.

But for many around the world, it remains a simple act of courtesy that reflects the country’s culture of shared responsibility.

With four points from two matches following an earlier draw against the Netherlands, Japan now sit level on points and goal difference with the Dutch heading into a decisive final Group F clash with Sweden.

A draw would be enough to send the Samurai Blue into the knockout rounds, while four points could also be sufficient to qualify as one of the best third-placed teams.