Why Are There So Few Trash Cans in Japanese Cities? Tips for Handling Trash While Traveling

Have you ever struggled to find a trash can while traveling in Japan? It’s common for visitors to be surprised or even inconvenienced by the lack of public trash bins. However, there are unique reasons for this, largely tied to environmental efforts and public safety concerns. This article will explain how to locate trash cans in Japan and provide smart tips for managing your waste.

Hard to Find a Trash Can? Why Are There So Few in Japan’s Cities?

Many people notice that public trash cans are scarce while walking around Japanese cities. So, why are there so few public bins in Japan? There are several factors behind this.

The first reason stems from strengthened safety measures in the past. After the 1995 Tokyo subway sarin gas attack, public safety regulations were heightened. Particularly, following incidents where suspicious items were hidden in trash cans and exploded, many trash cans were removed from stations, parks, and other public places, or their locations were limited. These safety measures are still in place today, which is one reason for the limited number of public trash cans.

Another reason is the cultural norm of “taking your trash home” in Japan. It’s common for residents and visitors to dispose of their waste themselves. Additionally, in recent years, with growing environmental awareness, recycling and waste reduction have been strongly promoted. Measures like charging for garbage bags and enforcing strict waste sorting aim to reduce the amount of waste generated, which lowers the need for frequent cleaning and, in turn, reduces the number of public trash cans. 

What to Do with Trash While Traveling?

When traveling in Japan, it's common to accumulate trash from snacks, drinks, or street food. Given that trash cans are fewer compared to other countries, how should you properly dispose of waste in Japan?

1. Dispose of Trash Responsibly in Public Bins

Trash cans at convenience stores or shopping centers are generally intended for items bought at those locations. For instance, if you purchased a drink or snacks from a convenience store, you can dispose of the empty containers in the store’s trash bin. However, it’s considered bad manners to throw away trash from other locations in these bins.

2. Carry Trash in an Eco-Bag or Plastic Bag Until You Return to Your Hotel

When shopping at convenience stores or supermarkets, you can buy plastic bags to carry your items. Many locals use these bags to gather trash during the day and then dispose of it at home. Adopting this method allows you to keep your trash until you return to your hotel, where you can properly dispose of it without causing inconvenience to others.

Finding Public Trash Cans While Sightseeing

Stations and Shopping Facilities

Trash cans can often be found in areas where people gather, such as inside and outside train stations, on platforms, and in food courts or rest areas within shopping centers.

At these locations, trash cans are typically separated by type: burnable waste, non-burnable waste, and PET bottles. Make sure to sort your trash properly. For PET bottles, be sure to empty them before disposal. It’s also a good idea to compact your trash as much as possible to avoid cluttering the bin and keeping the area clean.

Convenience Stores

You’ll often find trash cans near the entrance or inside convenience stores. However, as a rule, these bins are for disposing of waste from items purchased at the store. If you have small amounts of personal trash, it’s polite to ask the staff if you can dispose of it. In some cases, they may allow it at their discretion. Additionally, if you’re using their trash can, it’s good etiquette to buy something, such as snacks or drinks, as a gesture of appreciation.

Parks

In parks, trash cans are often found near playgrounds or benches where people tend to gather. When using these trash bins, it’s important to be considerate of others so that everyone can enjoy a clean and pleasant environment. This means sorting your trash appropriately and ensuring that it doesn’t spill over or scatter. If the trash can is full, it’s a good idea to take your trash with you instead of forcing it in. 

Recycling Bins by Vending Machines

If you’ve bought a drink from a vending machine and need to dispose of the empty bottle or can, you can use the designated recycling bins next to the vending machines. These bins are specifically for recycling, not general waste.

Avoid throwing plastic wrappers from bread, snack boxes, paper, or cigarette butts into these bins. Also, if the recycling bin is full, don’t leave your trash on top or beside it. Instead, find another bin or take it with you.

Tourist Spots

When visiting tourist spots, it’s worth checking the area for trash cans. In many cases, you’ll find public bins around the site, making it easier to dispose of your trash. If you’ve been eating on the go, it’s a good idea to ask the shop where you bought your food if you can dispose of your trash there. Many places will allow you to throw away trash from items bought in-store, so don’t hesitate to ask.

However, some popular tourist destinations may face a shortage of trash cans, especially during busy seasons or events. In such cases, the bins may be full, so it’s a good idea to carry a small trash bag with you just in case.

Using Google Maps

While you can’t search directly for "trash cans" on Google Maps, it’s a helpful tool to locate potential spots with bins, such as stations, public spaces, commercial facilities, and tourist attractions. Use it to identify these areas and check if there might be trash bins nearby.

Recommended Items for Carrying Your Trash

Bring a Dedicated Trash Bag

When visiting areas with fewer trash bins, it’s helpful to carry a dedicated trash bag with you. Small plastic bags or zippered pouches can easily fit into your bag, making it simple to collect trash during your trip. Once you’re back at your hotel or accommodation, you can dispose of the trash properly!

Use an Eco-Bag

An eco-bag is not just for shopping—it’s also useful for carrying trash. Items like empty food containers or packaging from drinks can be collected and stored in the bag until you find a proper place to dispose of them.

Utilize Pockets or Small Containers

If you prefer to avoid disposable bags, reusable small containers or storage pockets are another great option. These can be attached to your backpack or bag, making it easy to temporarily store trash like wrappers or small waste while you’re out and about.

Portable Trash Cans

In Japan, portable trash cans have recently become available. These compact containers fit inside your bag and are handy for keeping items like paper scraps, receipts, or small plastic waste organized. They’re widely available in variety shops and are a great way to manage trash on the go.

Know the Basics! Proper Trash Sorting and Etiquette

Sort Your Trash!

In Japan, it’s essential to sort your trash properly. Even while traveling, sorting your trash into the right categories is crucial for helping protect the environment. Here’s a quick guide to basic trash categories.

Littering is Against the Law! Dispose of Trash in the Right Place!

In Japan, littering is prohibited by law. To keep the streets and tourist areas clean, please dispose of your trash only in designated waste disposal areas or bins. If you cannot find a trash can, it is recommended to take your garbage back to your hotel or accommodation for proper disposal. Be aware that littering can result in fines.

Understand Japan's Trash Disposal Etiquette and Enjoy a Comfortable Trip!

Trash issues can significantly change with the conscientiousness of each individual. If you don’t see a trash can, please take your garbage home with you and help protect the beautiful scenery of Japan. Your small actions can lead to a better travel experience in Japan.