Travel Light, Experience Local.
Don’t let heavy luggage ruin your Japan trip. Find a clean and easy-to-use coin laundry nearby.
Why wash clothes in Japan?
First time? Don’t worry.
Experience “Real” Japan
Try unique local laundries, like ones attached to traditional public baths (Sento). It’s more than just washing clothes.
Latest Tips for Travelers
- I Forgot One Sock! Dealing with Lost Items in Laundries
“Did I leave it in the dryer?” You return to your hotel and realize you are missing a favorite t-shirt. You definitely left it in the dryer drum. Is it gone forever? The “Forgotten Items” Basket Go back to the shop immediately. Most Japanese coin laundries have a specific basket or shelf labeled “忘れ物” (Wasure-mono… - Living in a Share House? The “Laundry Roster” and Rules
Long-Term Stay Laundry Dynamics If you are in Japan for a month or more on a Working Holiday or studying, you might live in a “Share House.” Laundry here is a social minefield. Common Rules to Expect The “Line Up” On Sunday mornings, everyone wants to wash. Some houses have a whiteboard to book a… - Killing Time: Do Japanese Coin Laundries Have Wi-Fi?
What to Do for 60 Minutes? You are stuck at the laundry for an hour. Can you watch Netflix or get some work done? The Wi-Fi Situation It depends on the shop.Modern Chains (e.g., Baluko, WASH House): Often provide Free Wi-Fi and sometimes even power outlets for charging your phone. They are designed as “Laundry… - Why Do Japanese People Hang Clothes Outside? (The “Veranda” Culture)
The Balcony Scenery of Japan Walk down any residential street in Japan on a sunny morning, and you will see a unique sight: every balcony (veranda) is draped with futons, sheets, and shirts fluttering in the breeze. Why don’t Japanese people use dryers at home? The Power of the Sun In Japan, sunlight is considered… - Is it Safe to Leave My Clothes? Laundry Security in Japan
Japan is Safe, But Be Smart Japan is famous for its low crime rate. You will often see people leave their laundry spinning and go to a convenience store or restaurant for an hour. Is this actually safe? Generally, YES. Theft of clothes from machines is extremely rare in Japan. Most locals do it without… - Staying in a Hostel? The Unwritten Rules of Shared Laundry Machines
The Battle for the Machine Hostels and Guesthouses are great for meeting people, but they often only have 2 washing machines for 50 guests. The laundry competition can be fierce. The “Hostel Laundry” Survival Guide 1. Timing is Everything Everyone wants to wash between 8:00 PM and 10:00 PM. Avoid this “Rush Hour.” The best…