One of the most important aspects of daily life in Japan is proper garbage disposal. Osaka has specific rules for sorting and collecting waste that all residents must follow.
Garbage Categories in Osaka
Osaka divides garbage into several categories:
1. Burnable Garbage (Moeru Gomi)
- Kitchen waste and food scraps
- Paper products (tissues, paper towels)
- Leather and rubber items
- Plastic items that cannot be recycled
Collection: Twice per week
2. Non-Burnable Garbage (Moenai Gomi)
- Ceramics and pottery
- Glass (not bottles)
- Small metal items
- Light bulbs
Collection: Once per month
3. Recyclables (Shigen Gomi)
Plastic Containers and Packaging
- PET bottles (caps removed)
- Food containers (cleaned)
- Plastic bags and wrap
Collection: Once per week
Cans, Bottles, and Paper
- Aluminum and steel cans
- Glass bottles
- Newspapers, magazines, cardboard
Collection: Once per week
Large Items (Sodai Gomi)
Items larger than 30cm require special disposal:
- Call the Sodai Gomi Center: 06-6630-1000
- Purchase disposal tickets at convenience stores
- Attach tickets to items
- Place items outside on the scheduled collection day
Important Rules
- Put garbage out in the morning of collection day (before 9:00 AM)
- Use designated bags where required
- Clean recyclable containers before disposal
- Never dump garbage illegally - fines apply
Collection Schedule
Collection days vary by neighborhood. Check with your:
- Building management
- Local ward office
- City website (available in English)
Helpful Apps
Several apps can help you track collection days:
- Osaka City Garbage App (Official)
- Gomi Calendar (Third-party, English available)
Following these rules helps keep Osaka clean and maintains good relationships with your neighbors.
