After the agonising nature of their last-16 defeat by Belgium, 's World Cup squad and their thousands of fans would have been forgiven for leaving the Rostov Arena as swiftly as possible.
A number of Japan players were left in tears after being knocked out of the tournament when a late, late goal from Nacer Chadli sealed a 3-2 comeback victory for Belgium.
But, as revealed by general coordinator Priscilla Janssens on Twitter, Japan's squad went to extra lengths to thank their hosts in as they bowed out.
Sharing a picture of their spotless post-match dressing room, Janssens wrote: 'This is the Japanese dressingroom (sic) after losing to Belgium in the 94' minute.
'Thanked their fans in the stadium, cleaned up everything (bench and dressingroom) and spoke to media. Even left note with 'thank you' in Russian.
'What an example for all teams!! Privilege to work with!'
Japan's fans were also pictured collecting rubbish from the stands moments after watching their side crash out in the most dramatic of circumstances.
Their travelling supporters in Russia have been seen staying behind after each of their matches to help stadium workers to clear away litter.
And on Monday, this was all after Japan seemed destined to cause the latest shock of a dramatic World Cup.
They carved out a 2-0 lead over Belgium - one of the favourites to win the tournament - in the second half in Rostov, thanks to two goals in four minutes from Genki Haraguchi (48) and Takashi Inui (52).
But Belgium replied with a quick-fire double of their own; Tottenham's Jan Vertonghen sparked the comeback in the 69th minute and Marouane Fellaini hauled them level five minutes later.
Belgium then stole victory in the 94th minute when Thibaut Courtois caught a Japan corner and started a sweeping counter-attack through Kevin De Bruyne.
De Bruyne found Thomas Muenier surging forward on the right and his low cross was left by Romelu Lukaku for the onrushing Chadli to convert from close range.
-Dailymail