Kobe City requires all "household refuse" (garbage/plastic*/paper), "recyclables" (cans/bottles/PET bottles) and "non-combustible garbage" put out for collection be placed at designated pick-up stations near the residence between "5 am - 8 am" on a designated garbage collection day. Use Kobe City designated bags (according to classification written on the bag from 15L - 45L), available in super markets and convenience stores only. All other bags, including colorless, blue, black and plastic bags from convenience and super market will not be collected. Collection days are written on notice boards at each collection station.
*Plastic containers with a "pura mark" will be collected separately in the Kita-ward. This will start in 2010 for all other wards.
Burnable garbage (Collected twice a week)
Cooking waste, paper, wood, instant noodle Styrofoam container, yogurt container, mayonnaise tube, cooking oil container, diaper, etc.
*Newspapers, magazines and cardboard boxes should be put out in the district's recycle group collection. Styrofoam food trays and milk carton should be washed and put in recycle bins at nearby groceries when possible.
Non-combustible Garbage (Collected twice a month)
Ceramic cup, glass ashtray, fluorescent lamp, light bulb, flowerpot, plate, plastic bottle, cassette gas canisters**, spray cans**.
**Be sure to fully use up the content and puncture a hole to release gas (in a well ventilated place outdoors, away from flammables).
Bulky/Metal Garbage (Collected upon request by phone for a fee)
Large household item such as microwave oven, vacuum cleaner, video deck, 'kotatsu,' baby buggies; small electrical appliances such as radio cassette player, iron, toaster; and small metal items such as kettle, frying pan, paint can, etc.
Note: Beer and liquor bottles should be returned to stores.
Air conditioner, television, refrigerator, freezer, washing machine, and computer should be returned to the store where the replacement is bought or to recycle shops. A recycle fee will be charged for these appliances.
Check here (in Japanese) for a detailed description of how to separate your trash. This list is available in English, Chinese, Korean, Portuguese, Vietnamese, and Spanish.