Garbage Disposal in Fukuoka — The Unique Night Collection System
Fukuoka City is unique in Japan for collecting garbage at night rather than in the morning. This system was adopted because Fukuoka's narrow streets and warm climate make daytime collection impractical — garbage left in the sun attracts crows and creates odors. As a foreign resident, this is one of the first things you should know about living here.
| Garbage Type | Bag Color | Collection Time |
|---|---|---|
| Burnable Waste | Yellow designated bag | Night (put out by sunset) |
| Non-burnable Waste | Blue designated bag | Night (put out by sunset) |
| Plastic Packaging | Yellow designated bag | Night |
| Empty Bottles/Cans | Transparent bag | Night |
Step 1: Buy Designated Bags
Fukuoka requires designated paid garbage bags (yellow for burnable, blue for non-burnable). Buy them at supermarkets and convenience stores.
Step 2: Learn the Night Schedule
Put garbage out at your designated collection point from sunset until midnight on collection day. Collection trucks operate throughout the night.
Step 3: Sort Your Waste
Separate into burnable, non-burnable, plastic packaging, and recyclables (bottles, cans, paper). Check the Fukuoka City garbage guide for details.
Step 4: Use the Correct Bags
Garbage in non-designated bags will not be collected. Always use the correct bag for each category.
- ☑ Designated yellow bags (burnable)
- ☑ Designated blue bags (non-burnable)
- ☑ Transparent bags (recyclables)
- ☑ Check night collection schedule
Office Information
Fukuoka City Environmental Bureau
Phone: 092-711-4107
Hours: Mon–Fri 8:45–17:15
Source: Fukuoka City Environmental Bureau
Q: Why does Fukuoka collect garbage at night?
Night collection prevents crows from tearing open bags, reduces odor issues in the warm climate, and works better with Fukuoka's narrow streets where daytime trucks would cause traffic problems.
Q: What time exactly should I put out garbage?
Put garbage out from sunset until midnight. Collection occurs between midnight and early morning. Never put garbage out during daytime.
※ The information on this site is for reference only. Please confirm procedure details at your local municipal office.
