๐๏ธ The Japanese Trash Problem
"Where do I throw this away?!" - Every tourist in Japan, ever.
๐ซ The Shocking Truth
There are almost NO public trash cans in Japan.
This is due to the 1995 Tokyo subway attack. Most public bins were removed for security. Japanese people carry their trash home - and now you will too!
Strategy 1: Carry a Small Bag
The Japanese way: carry a small plastic bag in your backpack for trash.
Pro Tip: Convenience stores give you bags - save one for trash!
Strategy 2: Convenience Stores
Convenience stores (7-Eleven, Lawson, FamilyMart) have trash bins:
- Usually inside near the entrance
- Sometimes outside by the door
- Buy something small if you feel guilty
Note: Only throw away items from that store, or very small items.
Strategy 3: Vending Machine Bins
Vending machines often have small bins next to them - but ONLY for:
- Empty bottles (ใใใใใใซ)
- Empty cans (็ผถ)
โ NOT for food wrappers or other trash!
Strategy 4: Train Stations
Major stations have bins, but they're often inside the ticket gates:
- Look near platform kiosks
- Near NewDays/Kiosk shops
- Sometimes at station exits
โป๏ธ Trash Separation
Japan separates trash strictly. When you find a bin, check the categories:
ใใใใใใซ (Plastic Bottles)
Remove cap and label if possible
็ผถ (Cans)
Beer cans, soda cans
ใณใ (Glass Bottles)
Less common in public
็ใใใดใ (Burnable)
Paper, food waste
โ Survival Tips
- โข Eat food at the store where you bought it
- โข Finish drinks before leaving convenience stores
- โข Carry a small bag for trash in your backpack
- โข Your hotel room is the ultimate trash destination