Separation and Disposal of Garbage and Recyclables in Tokyo

Poste date: Friday, July 4, 2025

Getting your garbage collected in Japan can be very different from what you’re used to in your home country.

Below is a simple guide on how to sort your garbage, pack it properly, find collection days, and dispose of large items and appliances in Tokyo’s 23 wards.

It may seem complicated at first, but most apartment buildings have communal bins and clear instructions to make it easier.

Always check with your landlord, real estate agent, neighbors, or local ward office if you’re not sure.

1. Sorting Garbage in Tokyo - Types of Garbage

Most wards in Tokyo separate garbage into five types. Be sure to check your local ward’s sorting chart (available online or at ward offices).

Burnable Garbage

food scraps, used tissues, old clothes, small yard waste

Non-burnable Garbage

metal items, ceramics, glass, styrofoam packaging, plastic items that can’t be recycled

Recyclables

- Bottles/Cans: rinse before disposal

- Paper: sort and tie with string (newspapers, magazines, cardboard)

PET Bottles

may be collected separately — check with your ward

Large Items

TVs, furniture, appliances, etc. Anything larger than 30 × 30 × 30 cm

2. Garbage Bags and Packing Rules

Garbage Bags

Each ward has specific rules about which bags must be used. These bags can usually be purchased at supermarkets and convenience stores.

Packing Rules

Burnable Garbage:
drain liquids and put in the designated bag

Non-burnable Garbage:
rinse food containers before disposal

Recyclables:
separate by material, rinse bottles and cans, and tie up paper with string

PET Bottles:
check if your ward collects them separately

3. Garbage Collection Schedule

・Each ward has its own collection schedule, which you can check at the ward office or on its website.

・Place your trash at the designated pickup point by 8:00 AM on the correct day.

・If you’re not sure where your pickup point is, ask your landlord or neighbors.

4. Disposing of Large Items and Appliances

Please see the details for "Disposal of Oversized Garbage in Japan".

Option 1: Ask the Store

If you bought the item at a store, ask if they can handle collection. Fees apply (¥3,000–¥9,000 depending on the item).

Option 2: Contact the City

Call the Waste Electric Appliances Collection Center

TEL: 03-5296-7200 (8:00–17:00, Japanese only)

Example fees (pickup + recycling):TVs: ¥5,000–¥9,000

Refrigerators: ¥8,000–¥9,000

Washing machines: ¥6,000–¥7,000

ACs: ¥7,000–¥8,000

Computers: ¥3,000–¥4,000

Option 3: Sell or Give Away

Recycle Shops: May pick up items that are still usable.

Online Classifieds:

　　・Craigslist Japan

　　・GaijinPot Sayonara Sale

5. Useful Links

・Multilingual Trash Guide (Tokyo Tsunagari Portal)

・How to Read Recycling Symbols on Products in Japan

・How to Properly Dispose of Cooking Oil in Japan

・Garbage disposal pages for each of Tokyo’s 23 wards.

6. Recommended Products

Loofen Food Waste Dehydrator

This machine dries and reduces food waste using a warm air circulation system. You can add scraps anytime during the process. It helps prevent odors and reduces the volume of food waste at home. Eligible for eco subsidies in Japan.

Food Waste Processor Subsidy (Available in Many Areas in Japan)

Many cities and towns in Japan offer subsidy programs for residents who purchase home food waste processors or compost bins. Eligible residents can receive partial reimbursement of the purchase cost — typically covering about one-third to one-half of the price (often up to around ¥20,000–¥30,000).

Check with your local city or ward office to see if this support is available in your area.

TK Bio-Deodorizer Powder for Food Waste

This is a bio-based deodorizer powder that you sprinkle over food waste in your kitchen bin or triangular corner strainer. It helps control smells naturally and keeps your garbage area fresh.

Odor-Absorbing Gel for Garbage Bins

This gel deodorizer is designed for use inside trash cans. It absorbs unpleasant odors and leaves a fresh citrus scent. It’s a simple and affordable way to keep your garbage area clean and odor-free.