I've heard many stories from people who have lived in Japan or often do business there. They only had good things to say.

For example, a NZ friend of mine who lived in Japan for nine years left his briefcase with important documents in it on a train from Tokyo to Kyoto. He also lost his wallet and credit cards. He always left a forwarding address in his briefcase and wallet if found by strangers.

When he got to the hotel where he often stayed he looked a bit distressed and the receptionist asked him what was wrong. He told her what happened.

This was at 2 pm. She said " please don't worry sir, your belongings will be returned here by 7 pm". "Your usual room is ready for you, welcome back to our hotel".

Well at 6.45 pm he received a phone call from reception, his briefcase and wallet were returned with all contents intact. The woman who found his belongings had personally delivered them to the hotel.

Now, think about this same scenario on China: You'd have a snowballs chance in hell of ever seeing that briefcase or wallet again.

I agree with you, the Japanese set a good example for other Asians, especially the Chinese who have many disgusting personal habits ( spitting, littering, smoking anywhere, pissing in the streets, pushing/cutting in line, barking like dogs into their mobile phones on buses, etc )