Laundry

Many Japanese apartments — especially older or smaller ones — either lack a washing machine or have tiny units that can’t handle large items. Coin laundry (コインランドリー) is a normal part of daily life in Japan, and the facilities are clean, modern, and easy to use. Types of Machines Washer-Dryer Combo (洗濯乾燥機) Wash and dry in one cycle Most convenient option Cost: ¥600–1,200 for a full wash+dry cycle depending on drum size Washing Machine Only (洗濯機) Cheaper wash cycle only You’ll need to use a separate dryer or hang clothes at home Cost: ¥200–400 per wash Dryer Only (乾燥機) For items washed at home that need machine drying Very useful for duvets, futons, and heavy items that take days to air dry Cost: ¥100 per 10–12 minutes Large-Capacity Machine (大型) For duvets, blankets, curtains, sleeping bags 10kg–25kg capacity Cost: ¥1,000–2,500 depending on size and cycle time How to Use the Machines Choose a machine — check it’s empty and the drum is clean Load your laundry — don’t overfill (fill to 70–80%) Select your cycle — standard wash is fine for most items Insert coins — most machines accept ¥100 coins; some newer ones accept IC cards or QR code payment Add detergent — many machines dispense detergent automatically (included in price), or have a slot for your own Start the machine — it will display the remaining time Cycle time: Typically 30–40 minutes for washing, 40–60 minutes for drying. ...