Mysterious benefactor donates kilos of gold to Japanese city to repair water pipes

The donation is intended to repair the city’s aging water and sewer infrastructure. Like many places in Japan, the underground water and sewer pipes in Osaka are past their prime. Most date from just after World War II, when Japan experienced an economic boom, and now pose security problems. According to local media, more than 20 percent of Japan’s water pipes have exceeded their legal lifespan of 40 years.

The Osaka water company received 92 reports of water leaks under the road between March 2024 and March 2025. The urgency became clear when a truck sank into a sinkhole last year in Saitama, a city above Tokyo. The driver died. The sinkhole was probably caused by a broken sewer pipe.

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According to local media, Osaka was already replacing the water pipes, but the work stalled when the actual costs exceeded the planned budget. Thanks to the donation, the renovation can continue. Mayor Yokoyama said at the press conference that the donor wanted to remain anonymous, but added that the person had previously donated 2,800 euros in cash for the works. “Tackling outdated water pipes requires a huge investment. I have nothing but appreciation,” Yokoyama said on Thursday.