There is a long-standing free-market complaint about Japan’s "over-investment" in public infrastructure, but in recent years, I’ve realized how clean and reliable subways, sidewalks, and public roads don't just make the city more livable, but more equitable, as well. Everyone can enjoy good public transportation, no matter their socioeconomic background (and many wealthy people ride the subway here). The train station near the San'ya “slum” is just as clean as the train station in posh Omotesando.