Understanding Japanese recycling symbols is essential for sorting waste correctly in Japan. These symbols help identify how to dispose of items like cans, plastic, and paper. This guide explains the most common symbols and how to recycle based on local rules.
If you’re interested in more information about daily life in Japan, please check the article below.
Chapter 1: Common Japanese Recycling Symbols
If you’re living in Japan, understanding Japanese recycling symbols helps you sort your garbage the right way. These symbols are usually printed on the back or bottom of packages. Each one tells you what kind of material it is and how it should be handled.
In this chapter, let’s look at the most common recycling symbols found on everyday items.
1. Drink Cans
This symbol is for aluminum and steel cans used for drinks.
Aluminum (アルミ): Found on carbonated drinks and beer cans.
Steel (スチール): Found on canned coffee, juice, and tea.
You can find the symbol on the back or bottom of the can.
2. PET Bottles
PET stands for polyethylene terephthalate. This Japanese recycling symbol appears on plastic bottles used for:
Drinks like water, soda, and tea
Seasonings such as soy sauce, processed soy sauce products, mirin-style seasoning, vinegar, and non-oil dressings
3. Plastic Packaging
This Japanese recycling symbol is for non-bottle plastic items, such as:
Trays
Food containers
Plastic bags
Wrappers
In Japan, plastic is written as プラスチック, and the recycling symbol shows the first two katakana letters: プラ.
You’ll usually find this symbol on the back of packaging or near the barcode.
4. Paper Packaging
This Japanese recycling symbol is for paper-based packaging, such as:
Paper snack boxes
Paper sleeves
Paper shopping or food bags
It does not include cardboard or drink cartons made without aluminum.
In Japanese, paper is written as 紙 (kami), and you’ll often see this kanji in the symbol.
The symbol is usually printed near the barcode or on the back of the package.
5. Paper Cartons
This Japanese recycling symbol is used for drink cartons made of paper, such as:
Milk
Juice
Soy milk
In Japan, containers made of paper and used for drinks like milk are called 紙パック (kami pakku).
You’ll find the symbol printed near the opening or on the side of the carton.
Chapter2: How to Recycle in Japan Based on Japanese Recycling Symbols
Before recycling, it’s important to know that rules and collection days differ depending on your city or ward. Be sure to check your local guide.
For example, here’s how recycling works in Shinjuku Ward, Tokyo, based on the most common Japanese recycling symbols:
1. Drink Cans
Rinse cans lightly with water
Place them in a clear bag so the contents are visible
Put them out on the designated drink can day
2. PET Bottles
Remove the cap and label (these go with plastic waste)
Lightly crush the bottle
Place it in a clear bag
Put it out on the PET bottle collection day
3. Plastic Packaging
Rinse any food residue
Place clean plastic items in a clear plastic bag
Dispose of them on the designated plastic collection day
4. Paper Cartons
For items like milk cartons, rinse and clean
Flatten, dry, and bundle them
Bring them to collection boxes at supermarkets or drop-off centers
Source: The Bevarage Industry Environment Beautification Association
Source: Shinjuku City
We hope this guide to Japanese recycling symbols helps make waste sorting easier during your stay in Japan.
To learn more about how to sort garbage in detail, please check the article below:
