One of the first things many foreigners struggle with after moving to Japan is how to throw away garbage correctly.
In Japan, garbage rules are very strict and can differ depending on the city or area. Even within Japan, Osaka, Kyoto, and Tokyo may all have different systems.
In this article, we will explain how to separate and throw away garbage in Osaka City in a simple and easy way.
Main Types of Garbage in Osaka City
In Osaka City, garbage is mainly divided into the following categories:
- Regular garbage
- Recyclable garbage
- Plastic recycling
- Paper & clothing recycling
- Oversized garbage
Garbage must be thrown away on the correct collection day and before the specified time. Collection schedules vary depending on your address, so make sure to check your local schedule.
① Regular Garbage
Regular garbage is normal household waste from daily life.
Examples of Regular Garbage
- Food waste
- Used tissues
- Dirty paper
- Broken dishes
- Small household items
- Dirty plastics that cannot be recycled
Please remove as much water as possible from food waste before throwing it away. This helps reduce smell and insects.
② Recyclable Garbage
Recyclable garbage includes items that can be recycled.
Examples of Recyclable Garbage
- Aluminum cans
- Glass bottles
- PET bottles
- Spray cans
- Gas canisters
- Metal household items
Rinse PET bottles lightly before disposal. Remove caps and labels and separate them as plastic recycling.
For spray cans and gas canisters, completely use up the contents before disposal. In Osaka City, do NOT make holes in them.
③ Plastic Recycling
Plastic recycling includes plastic containers, packaging, and some plastic products.
Examples of Plastic Recycling
- Food trays
- Snack bags
- Shampoo bottles
- PET bottle caps and labels
- Styrofoam
- Small plastic items
Please rinse dirty items lightly before disposal. Very dirty plastics may need to be disposed of as regular garbage.
④ Paper & Clothing Recycling
Newspapers, magazines, cardboard, milk cartons, and clothing are recycled separately.
Examples
- Newspapers
- Flyers
- Magazines
- Cardboard boxes
- Milk cartons
- Clothing
Flatten cardboard boxes before disposal. Avoid putting out clothing on rainy days because wet clothing may not be recyclable.
About Garbage Bags
In Osaka City, garbage bags should be transparent or semi-transparent. Avoid using black bags or bags where the contents cannot be seen.
There are also limits on how much garbage can be thrown away at one time. Especially when moving out, avoid throwing away a large amount all at once.
Important Garbage Disposal Rules
- Throw garbage away only on the correct day
- Put garbage out before the designated time
- Use the correct garbage collection area
- Separate garbage properly
- Use transparent or semi-transparent bags
- Do not throw away too much garbage at once
Many apartments and buildings have their own garbage collection areas. Always follow your apartment or building rules as well.
What Is Oversized Garbage?
Oversized garbage refers to large items that do not fit into regular garbage bags. In Osaka City, items larger than approximately 30cm may be considered oversized garbage.
Examples of Oversized Garbage
- Beds
- Mattresses
- Desks
- Chairs
- Shelves
- Sofas
- Futons
- Bicycles
- Microwave ovens
Oversized garbage cannot be thrown away with regular garbage. You must make a reservation in advance.
How to Dispose of Oversized Garbage in Osaka City
① Make a Reservation
First, apply through the Osaka City oversized garbage collection center. Applications can be made online or by phone.
For more information about oversized garbage, click here.： 大阪市 粗大ごみ公式案内ページ
Information is also available in Chinese, Korean, and Vietnamese, and other languages can be supported using Google Translate as well!
You can also check oversized garbage disposal fees using the chatbot on the linked website.
You will need to provide:
- Item type
- Size
- Quantity
Then you will receive:
- Collection date
- Reception number
- Disposal fee
② Pay the Disposal Fee
Oversized garbage fees vary depending on the item. Typical fees include:
- ¥200
- ¥400
- ¥700
- ¥1,000
You can purchase disposal stickers at convenience stores and supermarkets. Some online applications also allow cashless payment.
③ Attach the Disposal Sticker
Write the required information such as your reception number on the disposal sticker and attach it to the garbage item where it can easily be seen.
If the reception number cannot be confirmed, the item may not be collected.
Be careful not to let the disposal fee sticker peel off!
④ Put It Out on Collection Day
Place the oversized garbage in the designated location on the morning of the collection day. Do not put it out too early.
Oversized garbage collection areas are often designated by each apartment building, so make sure to check in advance.
Important: Home Appliance Recycling Law
Some large appliances cannot be disposed of as normal oversized garbage.
- Air conditioners
- Televisions
- Refrigerators
- Freezers
- Washing machines
- Clothes dryers
These items are covered under Japan’s Home Appliance Recycling Law. You must contact the store where you purchased them or a recycling company.
Common Mistakes Foreigners Make
- Throwing away garbage every day
- Using the wrong collection day
- Not separating garbage properly
- Putting out oversized garbage without reservation
- Leaving furniture in the apartment when moving out
In Japan, leaving unwanted furniture or appliances in your room may result in disposal charges when moving out.
Useful Garbage Information Services
Osaka City provides online services where you can check garbage collection schedules by address. There are also garbage separation apps available.
If Japanese is difficult, ask your:
- Apartment management company
- School
- Company
- Real estate agency
Apple and App Store are trademarks of Apple Inc.
Google Play is a trademark of Google LLC.
Conclusion
Following garbage separation rules is very important when living in Japan.
- Each type of garbage has a different collection day
- Use transparent or semi-transparent garbage bags
- Oversized garbage requires advance reservation
- Do not leave furniture behind when moving out
- Prepare early before moving
If garbage rules are not followed, your garbage may not be collected and it can cause problems with neighbors.
If you need help with life in Japan or apartment hunting, please feel free to contact willow.
Feel free to contact us on LINE for support with daily life in Japan and apartment search!
*Garbage rules and collection schedules may vary depending on the area and apartment building. Please check the latest information from Osaka City or your building management company.