Whether you're strolling through the streets of Japan or elsewhere, you've probably spotted various forms of "graffiti art." While regulations exist, many creative pieces even pop up in collaboration with local governments.
Recently, a bizarre "graffiti incident" unfolding in Numazu City and the Izu region of Shizuoka Prefecture has captured widespread attention on Japanese X (formerly Twitter). Someone has been defacing 10-yen coins and public spaces with adult-themed illustrations, leaving many residents both furious and bewildered. Netizens have even dubbed this mysterious tagger "Erotic Banksy" (エロバンクシー), a nod to the famous anonymous British street artist.
The saga first gained traction thanks to a post from a ramen shop owner in Numazu, Shizuoka. He took to X, declaring, "This Erotic Banksy has gone too far! Absolutely unforgivable!" He pointed out the increasing number of 10-yen coins in local circulation featuring adult illustrations of large-breasted female characters.
(Note: Banksy is an anonymous British street artist known for his politically charged works, which serve as a form of social commentary. His art has appeared on streets, walls, and bridges in cities worldwide, often becoming a captivating part of the local urban landscape.)
According to multiple netizens, these defaced coins often circulate as change from vending machines. One user reported receiving such a marked 10-yen coin after buying a drink from a vending machine in Numazu City's Uchiura area. Another even shared a shocking experience of getting four graffiti-covered coins as change from a single vending machine at a shopping mall.
While the phenomenon has only recently exploded on social media, many users digging through old photos discovered they had encountered these tagged coins as early as 2024. Beyond currency, others noted seeing similarly styled adult graffiti on public facilities like parking lot shelters and rest areas across the Izu region, strongly suggesting the same individual is behind all the mischief.
Despite some netizens finding the whole situation bizarrely amusing, defacing banknotes or coins is considered currency damage under Japanese law and could lead to legal repercussions. Consequently, some users are urging caution, advising that while simply sharing photos might not lead to prosecution, people should avoid treating such acts as mere entertainment or offering support.
For now, the identity of the so-called "Erotic Banksy" remains a mystery. However, their distinctive tags have become a common sight in the area, so if you ever find yourself traveling in Shizuoka, you just might end up with one of these unique 10-yen coins!
via： togetter