Japanese Garbage Sorting: The Complete Guide
By Tour in Japan editors · Updated
Japan has some of the strictest waste separation rules in the world. Here's how to sort your trash correctly.
Japan has some of the strictest waste separation rules in the world. Here's how to sort your trash correctly.
The Basic Categories
| Category | Color (Tokyo) | What Goes In |
|---|---|---|
| Burnable (可燃) | Clear/White | Food waste, paper, plastic bags |
| Non-burnable (不燃) | Black/Gray | Glass, metal, ceramics |
| Recyclable Plastic (プラ) | Blue | Plastic containers, packaging |
| PET Bottles (ペットボトル) | Blue | Empty PET bottles only |
| Paper (紙) | Blue | Newspapers, cardboard, magazines |
| Glass (ガラス) | — | Bottles, jars (separate by color) |
| Cans (缶) | — | Aluminum and steel cans |
Sorting Rules by City
Tokyo
| Day | Type |
|---|---|
| Monday | Burnable |
| Tuesday | Non-burnable |
| Wednesday | Plastic + Paper |
| Thursday | Burnable |
| Friday | Non-burnable |
| Saturday | Plastic + Paper |
| Sunday | No collection |
Osaka
| Day | Type |
|---|---|
| Monday | Burnable |
| Tuesday | Non-burnable |
| Wednesday | Burnable |
| Thursday | Non-burnable |
| Friday | Burnable |
| Saturday | Non-burnable |
| Sunday | No collection |
How to Sort PET Bottles
- Drink all the liquid
- Remove the cap — separate
- Remove the label — separate
- Rinse the bottle
- Crush the bottle — flatten
- Put cap in "cap" bag — if separate collection
- Put label in plastic recycling
Where to Dispose
| Location | What |
|---|---|
| Hotel | Sorted bins in room or lobby |
| Convenience store | PET bottles, cans (outside) |
| Train station | Sorted bins on platforms |
| Park | Sorted bins |
Tips
- Use hotel bins — easiest option
- Carry a small bag — for your trash
- Convenience stores — accept PET bottles and cans
- Don't worry too much — locals understand tourists
- When in doubt — ask hotel staff
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