For once, here’s a Japanese post about something that’s more cool than crazy. This Japanese manhole cover gallery consists of manhole cover designs from all over Japan as well as some select other places like Portugal, Spain, England, Ireland, France, and Korea. [via]

It’s interesting to note that not only do the manhole covers have very intricate designs, but some of them also come in wonderful colors. I wish NYC had some manhole cover designs as aesthetically pleasing as this. Well, actually, I guess NYC manhole covers come a bit close.

Also, if you want a NYC manhole cover for a floor mat, you can get one at the City Store for $28. Designs Underfoot: The Art of Manhole Covers in New York City also showcases some NYC manhole covers.

And finally, if I remember correctly, The Works has a great section in the book about the designs behind some of NYC’s manhole cover designs.