Sapporo turns into graveyard of abandoned suitcases, with some labeled from HK and Shenzhen

Numerous travelers visiting Japan often acquire new suitcases, yet the alarming phenomenon of abandoned luggage observed in a local park in Sapporo has sparked extensive online discourse regarding the conduct of irresponsible travelers.

A Japanese citizen recently posted a photo on the social media platform X, capturing a snowy scene at Sapporo Soseigawa Park while suitcases in different sizes are strewn around, seemingly abandoned by a small tour group.

Surrounding these suitcases are heaps of litter, including empty soda bottles, snack cans, and cardboard boxes, adding to the disarray of the area.

According to local reports, at least 13 abandoned suitcases were found at the park. It was also discovered that some of them had airport tags labeled Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport "SZX."

The report also noted that it was not the sole incident, with news footage showing a suitcase with a Hong Kong International Airport "HKG" tag abandoned next to a trashcan at a guesthouse in Sapporo.

The guesthouse's owner complained about the frequent occurrence of abandoned suitcases, stressing the extra work required to dispose of them.

The online post and the news reports prompted significant dissatisfaction among online users, many of whom expressed frustration over visitors neglecting basic rules of cleanliness.

Analysis suggested that the suitcases are more affordable owing to the Japanese Yen depreciation, leading shoppers to have too many items and switch to a larger suitcase, casually throwing the unneeded suitcases.

However, abandoning a suitcase in Japan is deemed illegal, with fines of up to 10 million yen (approximately HK$520,000) or potential five years imprisonment.

Tourists who wish to dispose of unwanted suitcases could ask hotels or suitcase shops for assistance, and some airports in Japan also offer free suitcase recycling services.