In Japan, the flourishing trend of "art projects" since around 1990 signifies a paradigm shift in cultural initiatives, moving beyond traditional museum confines and emphasizing the integration of art into public spaces to nurture a sense of community.

A prominent example is the "1% for Art" program, which allocates 1% of the cost of public buildings for artistic installations. This initiative not only enhances the urban environment but also increases community engagement, elevating the quality of life and potentially boosting the local economy. Another example is “The Japan Traffic Culture Association” which plays a pivotal role in advocating for a public art movement, envisioning the incorporation of stained glass, ceramic reliefs, and sculptures into diverse public spaces such as railway stations, airports, schools, and hospitals.

Other initiatives stem from cities like Fukuoka, which stands out as a beacon in this transformative landscape, boasting over 200 pieces of public art on its streets. The collaborative efforts between local leadership, citizens, and international artists have birthed initiatives like "Sculpture in the City" and the private sector-led "Museum City Tenjin," fostering ongoing programs, workshops, and artist-in-residence initiatives. This underscores the enduring impact of public-private collaborations on urban art projects throughout Japan.

Lastly, the “Koenji Mural City Project”, initiated in 2016, is another noteworthy initiative aimed at transforming the Koenji neighborhood in west Tokyo into a dynamic artistic hub. The project invited seven street artists to embellish walls, transforming Koenji into an enchanting "city of art" that not only attracts tourists but also provides a vibrant platform for local artists to express their creativity.

These are just a few examples of numerous initiatives promoting, supporting, and advancing public art. They reflect a growing awareness of the significance of public art among the Japanese people.