Quick Answer
Nagoya has one of Japan's strictest garbage sorting systems with mandatory designated bags (指定袋). You typically need to buy official Nagoya garbage bags at convenience stores or supermarkets. Combustible waste uses yellow bags (¥47 for 45L/10 pack). Non-combustible uses blue bags. Recyclables go in transparent bags. Nagoya achieved a 60% waste reduction and is a national model for recycling. Guides available in 10+ languages.
Collection Categories & Bags
| Category | Bag Color | Examples | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Combustible (可燃ごみ) | Yellow designated bag | Food waste, paper, cloth | 2x/week |
| Non-combustible (不燃ごみ) | Blue designated bag | Ceramics, metals, glass | 1x/month |
| Plastic containers (プラスチック) | Transparent bag | Plastic packaging with プラ mark | 1x/week |
| Paper/cardboard (紙類) | Tied with string | Newspapers, cardboard, magazines | 1x/week |
| Oversized (粗大ごみ) | Sticker required | Furniture, appliances over 30cm | By appointment (052-950-2581) |
Designated Bag System
Important: Nagoya requires designated bags!
Unlike Tokyo, Nagoya requires you to buy official city-designated garbage bags. Using non-designated bags means your garbage will NOT be collected. Buy bags at any convenience store, supermarket, or drug store. They come in 10L, 20L, and 45L sizes. The cost is essentially a garbage tax built into the bag price.
FAQ
Q: Where do I buy Nagoya designated garbage bags?
A: At any convenience store (7-Eleven, Lawson, FamilyMart), supermarket, or drug store in Nagoya. Look for bags labeled "名古屋市指定袋". Yellow for combustible, blue for non-combustible.
Q: Where can I get the garbage guide in Portuguese?
A: Nagoya provides garbage sorting guides in Portuguese, English, Chinese, Korean, Vietnamese, Spanish, Tagalog, and more. Get them at NIC, your ward office, or download from the Nagoya City website.
Disclaimer
Collection schedules vary by area. Check your ward office or the "5374 Nagoya" app for your specific schedule.
Last updated: April 2026.