Quick Answer
Yokohama has a detailed garbage sorting system with 15+ categories. Combustible waste is collected 2x/week. Cans/bottles/PET bottles are collected on separate days. Yokohama uses a "G30/3R" waste reduction system. Place garbage at your collection point by 8:00 AM. Multilingual garbage guides are available in 14 languages from your ward office or the Yokohama City website.
Collection Categories
| Category | Examples | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Combustible (燃やすごみ) | Food waste, paper, cloth, small plastic | 2x/week |
| Cans/Bottles/PET (缶・びん・ペットボトル) | Aluminum, steel, glass, PET bottles | 1x/week |
| Small metal (小さな金属類) | Pots, pans, metal items under 30cm | 1x/week |
| Plastic containers (プラスチック製容器包装) | Plastic bags, trays, wrapping with プラ mark | 1x/week |
| Oversized (粗大ごみ) | Furniture, appliances over 50cm | By appointment (0570-200-530) |
Yokohama's Strict Sorting
Yokohama is known for strict garbage sorting. Improperly sorted bags may be left uncollected with a warning sticker. Key tips: rinse PET bottles and remove caps separately, flatten cardboard, and separate plastic packaging (プラ mark) from regular combustible waste. Yokohama provides a sorting search tool on its city app.
FAQ
Q: Where can I get the garbage guide in my language?
A: Yokohama provides garbage sorting guides in 14 languages including English, Chinese, Korean, Vietnamese, Portuguese, Spanish, Tagalog, and more. Get them at your ward office or download from the city website.
Q: What happens if I sort garbage incorrectly?
A: Incorrectly sorted bags will be left at the collection point with a yellow warning sticker. Re-sort and put it out on the correct day. Repeated violations may result in a warning from your neighborhood association.
Disclaimer
Collection schedules vary by area. Check the Yokohama City app or your ward office for your specific schedule.
Last updated: April 2026.