Kimmel Slams 'Filthy and Disgusting' US After Japan Trip

Late night host compares cleanliness of Japan to 'garbage' in the US

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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In a recent monologue, liberal talk show host Jimmy Kimmel spoke favorably of Japan's cleanliness, noting the country's spotless bathrooms and lack of litter, in stark contrast to the 'filthy and disgusting' conditions he observed in the United States during his travels.

Why it matters

Kimmel's critique of the US's poor cleanliness and infrastructure compared to Japan's exemplary standards highlights an ongoing debate about the state of American cities, particularly those struggling with homelessness, crime, and crumbling public spaces.

The details

Kimmel said he was shocked by how clean Japan's bathrooms, streets, and public spaces were, even in places like truck stops, compared to the 'garbage' he encountered back home. He joked that Japanese people likely view Americans as the 'garbage people' due to the stark difference in cleanliness.

  • Kimmel made the comments during a recent monologue on his show 'Jimmy Kimmel Live'.
  • Kimmel had just returned from a 7-day trip to Japan prior to making the remarks.

The players

Jimmy Kimmel

The host of the late night talk show 'Jimmy Kimmel Live' who criticized the cleanliness of the US compared to Japan.

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What they’re saying

“Here in America, we know we have our faults. We know we have areas for improvement. But, overall, I think most of us believe that, compared to the rest of the world, we're pretty buttoned-up. I know I did.”

— Jimmy Kimmel, Talk Show Host (Jimmy Kimmel Live)

“But now, after traveling to Japan, I realize that this place — this USA we're always chanting about, is a filthy and disgusting place.”

— Jimmy Kimmel, Talk Show Host (Jimmy Kimmel Live)

“It's like the whole country is Disneyland, and we're living at Six Flags.”

— Jimmy Kimmel, Talk Show Host (Jimmy Kimmel Live)

The takeaway

Kimmel's scathing critique of the cleanliness and infrastructure in the US compared to Japan highlights an ongoing debate about the state of American cities and the need for greater investment in public spaces and services to improve quality of life for residents.