How to find public trashcans in Japan?

12/4/2014 5:47:19 PM

First, it is often said that the lack of public trashcans in Japan is an after-effect of the 1995 sarin gas attacks in the Tokyo subway: the number of public trashcans was drastically reduced, probably to prevent their use in similar attacks (see for example here). Having never been to Japan before the attacks, however, I don’t know how common trashcans were then. Also, in some smaller communities, people simply don’t want to deal with visitors’ garbage, and ask that you take it home.

Now, how to find public trashcans when out and about? I look in mostly three places:

  • A good number of drink vending machines (though I probably wouldn’t say “most”) have bins next to them, but those are generally restricted to cans and bottles.
  • Most convenience stores, especially the “stand-alone” ones (as opposed to those located in large complexes such as stations), have trashbins in front (or, more rarely, inside). Google Maps can help you find the nearest one. It is not necessary to buy something from a store as a courtesy if you use their trash bins (unlike when you use their toilet).
  • Most train station have trashcans on the platform or some other area after the ticket gates (mostly to throw out the things you bought to eat or drink on the train when you get off). In Japan, you need to buy a special ticket to pass the ticket gates even if you’re not taking a train, so that’s not generally a very interesting solution, but it can be if you have a rail pass which lets you pass the ticket gates for free.

Credit:stackoverflow.com‘

About me

Hello,My name is Aparna Patel,I’m a Travel Blogger and Photographer who travel the world full-time with my hubby.I like to share my travel experience.

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