If you’re staying in Japan for several days, you’ll probably need to do some laundry. Fortunately, using a coin laundry in Japan is simple, clean, and affordable. Many hotels also have self-service laundry rooms, making it easy to pack fewer clothes and travel lighter.
Where Can You Do Laundry?
You have several options:
- Coin laundries (coin-operated laundromats)
- Hotel self-service laundry rooms
- Washing machines in apartments or vacation rentals
Coin laundries are common in cities and residential neighborhoods, while many business hotels have washing machines available for guests.
How Much Does It Cost?
Prices vary depending on the machine and location, but typical costs are:
- Wash: ¥300–¥600
- Dry: ¥100–¥200 per 10–15 minutes
- Combined wash & dry machine: ¥800–¥1,500
Payment is usually by coins, but many newer machines also accept IC cards, credit cards, QR payments, or smartphone apps.
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Choose a Machine
Select a washing machine or a combined wash-and-dry machine if available.
Read the instructions on the machine. Many newer laundromats offer English language options.
2. Add Your Clothes
Do not overload the machine. Clothes should be able to move freely for the best results.
3. Add Detergent
Most modern machines automatically add detergent and fabric softener.
If detergent is not included, you can usually buy a small packet from a vending machine inside the laundromat.
4. Pay
Insert coins or use the available payment method.
The machine will start automatically after payment.
5. Dry Your Clothes
Transfer your clothes to a dryer if necessary.
Thicker items such as jeans, hoodies, and towels usually need extra drying time.
How Long Does It Take?
Approximate times are:
- Washing: 30–40 minutes
- Drying: 20–40 minutes
- Combined wash & dry: 60–90 minutes
You can usually leave during the cycle, but return before your laundry finishes.
Hotel Laundry Rooms
Many hotels have guest laundry facilities.
They are often located on:
- The basement floor
- A guest room floor
- Near the vending machines
Some hotels provide detergent, while others sell it through vending machines or at the front desk.
During busy evenings, you may have to wait for an available machine.
Laundry Etiquette
Japanese laundromats are very clean, and a few simple manners will help everyone.
- Remove your laundry promptly when finished.
- Do not leave valuables unattended.
- Wipe up any spills if necessary.
- Avoid washing muddy or heavily soiled clothing.
- Keep the area tidy.
If a machine has finished and the owner has not returned for a long time, it is generally acceptable to carefully move their laundry into the provided basket, if one is available.
Can You Wash Shoes?
Some larger coin laundries have special washing and drying machines for sneakers.
These machines are clearly marked and should only be used for shoes.
What Should You Bring?
Helpful items include:
- Laundry bag
- Small amount of cash or coins
- Reusable shopping bag for clean clothes
- Stain remover (optional)
What If You Need Laundry Done Quickly?
Some hotels offer same-day laundry service for an additional fee.
This is usually more expensive than using a coin laundry but can be convenient if you’re traveling on a tight schedule.
When choosing a hotel, it’s worth checking whether it has a self-service laundry room or if there’s a coin laundry within a few minutes’ walk. This can save you from packing extra clothes, especially during longer trips or when traveling with children.
Another useful tip is to do your laundry early in the morning rather than in the evening. Hotel laundry rooms are often busiest after dinner, while mornings are usually much quieter.
