Garbage Disposal Rules in Shinjuku — Sorting Guide for Foreign Residents
Proper garbage disposal is taken seriously in Shinjuku. Unlike many other countries, Japan requires residents to separate waste into several categories. Getting it right from the start will help you avoid problems with neighbors and keep your area clean.
| Garbage Type | Collection Day | Bag Type |
|---|---|---|
| Burnable Waste | Mon & Thu | Transparent/Semi-transparent |
| Non-burnable Waste | Alternate Saturdays | Transparent/Semi-transparent |
| Recyclables | Wednesday | Transparent |
| Plastic Containers | Tue & Fri | Transparent/Semi-transparent |
Step 1: Learn Your Collection Schedule
Collection days vary by area within Shinjuku. Check the Shinjuku City website or download the Shinjuku Garbage Separation App (available in multiple languages) to find your exact schedule.
Step 2: Separate Your Garbage
Separate waste into: Burnable (food waste, paper, clothing), Non-burnable (ceramics, glass, small electronics), Recyclables (PET bottles, cans, newspapers), and Plastic containers/packaging.
Step 3: Use the Right Bags
Shinjuku does not require designated paid bags. Use transparent or semi-transparent bags so collectors can verify contents. Colored or opaque bags may be rejected.
Step 4: Put Garbage Out by 8:00 AM
Place your garbage at the designated collection point on your street before 8:00 AM on the collection day. Do not put garbage out the night before.
Step 5: Bulky Waste Disposal
Items larger than 30cm require a special pickup. Call the Bulky Waste Reception Center (03-5296-7000) to schedule a pickup and purchase disposal stickers at a convenience store.
- ☑ Check collection schedule for your specific area
- ☑ Transparent or semi-transparent bags
- ☑ Bulky waste disposal stickers (for large items, 400–2,800 yen)
Office Information
Shinjuku Cleaning Office
Address: 2-3-1 Kabukicho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
Phone: 03-5273-3011
Hours: Mon–Fri 8:00–16:30
Source: Shinjuku City Official Website
Q: What happens if I put garbage out on the wrong day?
Incorrectly sorted or mistimed garbage will be left uncollected with a warning sticker. Repeated violations may result in a notice from the city.
Q: Where can I get the multilingual garbage guide?
The Shinjuku Garbage Separation Guidebook is available in English, Chinese, Korean, Vietnamese, and Nepali at Shinjuku City Office and online.
※ The information on this site is for reference only. Please confirm procedure details at your local municipal office.
