Inquiring about laundry charges in Tokyo and concerned about the potential high cost.

Laundry Charges in Tokyo: What I Actually Experienced and What Locals Do

I recently needed to do laundry while in Tokyo and was curious about the cost, since I’d heard rumors that laundry charges can be surprisingly high in big cities. So I decided to check it out myself and share what I found — straight from a Japanese local’s perspective.

How much does it really cost to use a laundromat in Tokyo?

From my experience, a typical coin-operated washing machine at a neighborhood laundromat costs around ¥300 to ¥500 per wash (roughly $2.00 to $3.50 USD). Dryers usually charge about the same per 10 to 15 minutes of drying time. So if you’re washing and drying a regular load, you might end up paying between ¥600 and ¥1,000 ($4.00 to $7.00 USD) total.

Are laundromats common and easy to find in Tokyo?

Laundromats are quite common, especially in residential neighborhoods where many people live in small apartments without their own machines. You’ll often see small shops with rows of machines and coin slots. But unlike some countries, laundromats in Japan tend to be very clean, well-maintained, and safe, which locals appreciate. I walked around my neighborhood and found one just a 5-minute walk from my apartment building.

Do Japanese people usually use laundromats or have washing machines at home?

Many Japanese apartments come with hookups for washing machines, and most people have their own machines. But in central Tokyo, where space is tight and rents are high, some people — especially younger folks or students — rely on laundromats. Also, some apartments don’t allow washing machines inside due to limited plumbing. So laundromats serve an important role in city life.

Is it cheaper or more practical to use laundry services like wash-and-fold instead of laundromats?

Wash-and-fold services exist but tend to be pricier, around ¥300 per kg or more (about $2.00+ per 2.2 lbs). They’re convenient if you’re short on time but not common for everyday use by locals because it can add up quickly. Personally, I only use those services occasionally when traveling or during busy weeks. Most Japanese people stick to self-service laundromats or home machines for regular laundry.

Any tips for saving money or time when doing laundry in Tokyo?

If you want to save a bit, try to wash full loads since prices are per use, not per kg. Also, drying can be expensive if you’re not careful — 10 minutes can cost ¥100 to ¥150 ($0.70 to $1.05 USD), and drying a full load might take 20-30 minutes. Some people air-dry clothes on balconies or indoor racks to avoid the drying fee, especially in spring and fall when the weather is mild.

Why This Matters: Laundry is a daily chore in Japan, and the way locals approach it shows how urban living shapes habits. In Tokyo, convenience and cleanliness are prized, but space and cost constraints influence choices. Laundromats aren’t just for tourists — they’re a practical part of many people’s routines.

If you plan to stay in Tokyo for a while and don’t have a washing machine, using a coin laundromat is straightforward and won’t break the bank. Just bring some coins (¥100 and ¥500 coins work best), and you should be good to go.

So, while laundry charges in Tokyo might seem high compared to other places, they reflect the city’s lifestyle and infrastructure. From my experience, it’s manageable and part of everyday life here.

If you have more questions about daily life or want tips on navigating Tokyo’s neighborhoods, just ask!