How to Do Laundry in Japan: A Complete Guide for Tourists

If you’re a tourist in Japan on an extended stay, figuring out how to do laundry can be a challenge—especially if you don’t speak or read Japanese. Fortunately, Japan has a vast network of clean, efficient self-service laundromats, often called coin laundries, that are easy to use once you understand the basics.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the entire process of using a Japanese laundromat, from finding one near you to choosing the right machine and operating it correctly. By the end, doing your own laundry in Japan will feel like second nature.

What Is a Coin Laundry in Japan?

Coin laundries (コインランドリー) are Japan’s version of self-service laundromats. You’ll find them in cities, suburbs, and even countryside areas. They’re especially popular among students, travelers, and residents in apartments without washing machines.

Most laundromats in Japan are open 24 hours, clean, and well-maintained. Some even offer English signage and modern touchscreen interfaces.

How to Find a Laundromat Near You

To find a laundromat in your area, try searching:

• “coin laundry near me”
• “laundromat in Tokyo” (or the city you’re in)
• “self-service laundry Japan”

Use Google Maps or apps like NAVITIME or Japan Travel by NAVITIME. You’ll often find laundromats near hotels, train stations, and residential neighborhoods.

Look for signs that say:

• コインランドリー (coin laundry)
• 24時間営業 (24-hour operation)

How to Use a Japanese Coin Laundry: Step-by-Step

1. Bring Your Clothes and Coins

Most laundromats accept 100-yen coins, and prices usually range from ¥300–¥500 for washing and ¥100–¥300 for drying. Some machines accept IC cards (Suica, Pasmo) or even mobile payment, but bring cash just in case.

Make sure to bring:

• Your laundry (sorted by color or fabric type)
• Detergent (some machines include it)
• Dryer sheets or softener if needed
• A laundry bag

2. Choose the Right Washing Machine

There are typically two types:

• Washer only
• Washer-dryer combo (all-in-one)

Machines vary by load capacity (often 7kg, 10kg, or 15kg). Choose based on how much you’re washing.

3. Add Detergent (If Required)

Many modern coin laundries in Japan have automatic detergent dispensers. If so, the detergent fee is included. Look for signs like:

• 洗剤自動投入 (detergent automatically added)

If it’s not automatic, pour detergent into the indicated compartment.

4. Insert Coins or Pay Electronically

• Insert the required amount into the coin slot.
• Press the start button (usually labeled スタート).
• For IC cards or apps, follow the on-screen instructions.

Washing takes about 30–40 minutes, and drying takes 20–30 minutes, depending on the load.

How to Use a Japanese Dryer

Dryers Are Separate from Washing Machines

After washing, transfer your clothes to a dryer. Prices usually range from ¥100 for 10 minutes. Thicker items like towels or jeans may need more time.

High Heat or Low Heat?

Most dryers have options like:

• 強 (High)
• 中 (Medium)
• 弱 (Low)

High heat is good for towels and jeans, but use medium or low for delicates. If you’re unsure, medium (中) is a safe choice.

Common Symbols and Phrases You Should Know

Japanese laundromat machines often have icons or buttons labeled in Japanese. Here are useful translations:

Japanese	English Meaning
洗濯	Wash
乾燥	Dry
脱水	Spin
一時停止	Pause
スタート	Start
停止	Stop
洗剤自動投入	Automatic detergent
柔軟剤	Fabric softener
残り時間	Remaining time

Tips for a Smooth Laundry Experience

• Go during off-peak hours, like early mornings or late evenings.
• Avoid weekends, when locals might use the laundromats.
• Bring reading material or use the free Wi-Fi (some places offer it).
• If you’re unsure how to operate a machine, watch others or use a translation app like Google Lens.

What If You Don’t Have Detergent?

Check if the machine adds detergent automatically. If not, some laundromats sell small detergent packets via vending machines (自販機).

Can I Leave My Laundry Unattended?

In Japan, it’s generally safe to leave your laundry while it washes or dries, but it’s not uncommon for locals to wait nearby. If you’re worried, stay or set a timer on your phone and return just before it finishes.

Useful Apps for Laundry in Japan

• Google Maps: Search for “laundromat” or “coin laundry”
• Google Lens: Instantly translate Japanese machine instructions
• Japan Travel by NAVITIME: Helps locate nearby services

Conclusion: Doing Laundry in Japan Is Easy Once You Know How

Using a coin laundromat in Japan might seem daunting at first, but it’s actually very simple—and quite convenient once you get used to it. With clean facilities, reliable machines, and clear processes, doing laundry during your stay won’t be a hassle.

So don’t worry if your hotel doesn’t offer laundry service. Just head to the nearest self-service laundry, follow the steps above, and your clothes will be clean in no time.

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