Discover the “Real” Japan Through Laundry
Doing laundry in Japan is more than just a chore; it’s a ticket to experiencing local daily life.
Step away from the crowded tourist spots and visit a neighborhood coin laundry. You might find one attached to a traditional “Sento” (public bath), a retro shop that feels like stepping back in time, or a stylish modern cafe-laundry.
While your clothes spin, explore the local shopping street, try snacks from a nearby convenience store, or soak in a relaxing hot bath. This is your guide to unique, memorable local experiences.
– Local Experience Articles –
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…
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…
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…
High Quality for Just 100 Yen Japan’s “100 Yen Shops” (like Daiso, Seria, Can Do) are legendary. They are treasure troves for travelers. If you plan to do any hand-washing or organization during your trip, visit the laundry section of a Daiso. Here are 5 useful items you can buy for just 100 yen (plus…
Need a Break from Crowded Tourist Spots? Famous temples in Kyoto and busy crossings in Shibuya are amazing, but they are also crowded with other tourists. Sometimes, you just want to see how regular Japanese people live. Doing laundry is the perfect opportunity. It’s not a chore; it’s your ticket to experiencing everyday local life….
Wash Your Clothes, Soak Your Body Waiting 60 minutes for your laundry to finish can be boring. You could stare at your phone, or you could turn a chore into a unique Japanese cultural experience. In older neighborhoods of Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, you can often find coin laundries attached right next to traditional public…
