Separation and Disposal of Garbage and Recyclables in Tokyo
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:
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.
Automatic Sensor Trash Can
You don’t have to touch the lid to open this trash can. Click the image for more details.
Trash Cans for Sorting
A set of three trash cans that make separating trash easy. Click the image for more details.

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