Unique Manhole Covers in Iwate Honor MLB Stars Ohtani, Sasaki, and Kikuchi

In June, Iwate Prefecture unveiled a trio of eye-catching manhole covers celebrating its hometown Major League Baseball (MLB) heroes: Shohei Ohtani of the Los Angeles Dodgers, Roki Sasaki, and Yusei Kikuchi of the Los Angeles Angels. Featuring original illustrations of these standout players, the manhole covers have already become popular tourist attractions, drawing fans from across Japan and beyond to their hometowns in Iwate.

(Sankei Degital)

Where to Find These MLB Manhole Covers

Each manhole cover, measuring 63 centimeters in diameter, is strategically placed in a location tied to the player’s personal story:

• Shohei Ohtani

  Located at the west exit of JR Mizusawa-Esashi Station in Oshu City, the gateway to his hometown via the Tohoku Shinkansen.

• Roki Sasaki

  Positioned in front of the “Machi no Enzawa” tourist information center near JR Rikuzentakata Station in Rikuzentakata City, close to where he first played catch with his father, who tragically passed away in the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake.

• Yusei Kikuchi

  Found outside the Tonan Library in Morioka City, a spot he frequented as a child due to his love for reading.

These locations aren’t just random—they reflect the players’ roots and resonate deeply with fans who visit.

Stunning Illustrations Capture Their Spirit

The artwork on each manhole cover is a masterpiece in itself, designed to showcase the players’ unique talents and personalities:

• Ohtani: The two-way superstar is depicted in dual glory—hurling a blazing fastball and poised with a bat, radiating his commanding presence.
• Sasaki: With a dragon motif in the background, he’s shown mid-pitch with his signature high left-leg kick, a nod to his extraordinary form.
• Kikuchi: Set against a fiery backdrop, he’s captured in a dynamic pitching pose, brimming with intensity and fighting spirit.

These designs were commissioned by MLB to honor 12 Japanese players excelling in the league, spotlighting Japan’s unique tradition of turning manhole covers into art. Illustrators crafted each piece, and the covers were installed in the players’ hometowns between June 16 and 29. Iwate Prefecture was the first to receive them and boasts the highest number of installations.

(IBC Iwate Broadcasting)

Ohtani’s Manhole Cover Steals the Show

Of the three, Shohei Ohtani’s manhole cover has emerged as the biggest draw, reflecting his status as MLB’s superstar and a global icon. On June 26, the west exit of JR Mizusawa-Esashi Station was buzzing with fans waiting to snap photos. The crowd included:

• Shigeki Omori, 66, a former teacher from Hitachiota City, Ibaraki Prefecture: “I came just to photograph this. His two-way skills are incredible, and the manhole’s stylish design is amazing. It’s a great memory!”
• Takashi Kagawa, 68, from Hatsukaichi City, Hiroshima Prefecture: In Oshu for a family funeral, he made a detour to see it. “In Hiroshima, I tell people I’m from Ohtani’s hometown, and they instantly know Oshu City. I’ll show off these photos back home.”
• A couple in their 50s from Hirosaki City, Aomori Prefecture: “We’re huge fans and record every game. His personality and stats are top-notch—he’s a true superstar.” They took turns posing with the cover.

Sasaki and Kikuchi Inspire Local Pride

At Sasaki’s manhole cover in Rikuzentakata, a 71-year-old man from Miyako City, another area hit by the 2011 earthquake, shared his connection: “Miyako and Rikuzentakata are both disaster-affected communities. I’m here to support Sasaki, a fellow survivor.” The “Machi no Enzawa” center has handed out over 1,000 patches matching the manhole design, a sign of its growing popularity.

Meanwhile, in Morioka, the city’s Sports Promotion Division has high hopes for Kikuchi’s manhole cover. Known more for his high school in Hanamaki City, Kikuchi has had little recognition in his actual hometown—until now. “We’ve had nonstop inquiries since the installation,” a representative said. “This is Morioka’s first tribute to Kikuchi, and we hope it puts us on the map.”

A Cultural Tribute Worth Visiting

These manhole covers blend Japan’s artistic flair with its passion for baseball, celebrating Iwate’s contribution to MLB. Whether you’re a die-hard fan, a culture enthusiast, or a traveler seeking offbeat attractions, these sites offer a unique glimpse into the lives of Ohtani, Sasaki, and Kikuchi. Plan your visit to Iwate Prefecture and discover these remarkable tributes for yourself!