How to Use Coin Laundries (Coin-Operated Laundry / Laundromat) on a Long Campervan Trip

Travelling across Japan by RV is a magical experience that gives you total freedom to explore this great country on your terms. By selecting a campervan rental in Tokyo, you will be ready to hit the road and plan a trip of a lifetime. Japan has a lively RV scene, which makes living on the road much easier. In particular, the coin-operated laundry machines can ensure your clothes are clean throughout your travels.

For long journeys, knowing how to use coin-operated laundry facilities can save space in your camper, cut down on packing, and keep you comfortable on the road. This guide explains how coin laundries work in Japan, offering step-by-step instructions and tips to make the process smooth and efficient.

Why Coin Laundries Are a Camper’s Best Friend

Coin Laundry is an incredibly common way to keep your clothes clean in Japan, and in many ways, it works the same as a Western laundromat. Using a Coin Laundry is a great idea when travelling by motorhome, as it offers a wealth of benefits such as:

• Saved packing space: With laundry facilities available almost everywhere, you don’t need to bring two weeks’ worth of clothes.
• Convenient locations: Coin Laundries can be found in cities, small towns, and even near roadside service areas. So if you’re in a motorhome, Tokyo won’t be the only place that caters to your laundry needs!
• Affordable and quick: A full wash and dry usually costs around JPY600 to JPY1,000, with drying done in under an hour.
• Reliable cleanliness: Japanese Coin Laundry is typically spotless, well-maintained, and safe to use at any time of day.

For campervan travellers, this means more space in the van, less clutter, and fewer worries about finding clean clothes on the road.

Step 1: Finding a Coin Laundry

Coin Laundries, called “koin randorī” (コインランドリー), are commonplace across Japan. Finding one is generally quite straightforward and can be done in a few ways:

• Maps apps: You can search “コインランドリー” on Google Maps for nearby options.
• Roadside stations (Michi-no-Eki): Some have laundromats attached, which is ideal for combining laundry with rest breaks.
• Residential neighbourhoods: They’re often tucked into quiet streets and residential neighbourhoods, with big signage showing “コインランドリー” or a blue-and-white washing machine symbol.

Many laundromats are open 24/7, making them useful for late-night or early-morning washes when your travel schedule is tight.

Step 2: Choosing the Right Machine

Japanese laundromats usually offer a good selection of supplies for doing laundry. With that said, it’s still a good idea to have your own laundry detergent just in case. Most Coin Laundry services will offer:

• Large Drum Washers (20 to 30kg): These larger machines are great for bedding, towels, and bulk washes.
• Medium Washers (10 to 15kg): Ideal for most RV travellers, the medium washers are suitable for clothes from a week’s travel.
• Dryers: These gas-powered dryers are very efficient, and typically operate in 10 to 15 minute increments.

Some laundromats also provide combo washer-dryers, which complete the cycle automatically. These can save time if you want to set-and-forget while grabbing a meal nearby.

Step 3: How to Operate the Machines

Each Coin Laundry differs slightly, but most follow a straightforward process. If you’ve ever used a laundromat before, you’ll be very familiar with how it’s done in Japan. Below are the steps to follow for operating the machines:

• Load Your Laundry: Don’t overfill the drum and leave some space for proper washing and rinsing.
• Add Detergent (If Needed): Many modern machines include detergent and fabric softener automatically. If not, small vending machines or convenience stores nearby sell single-use packs.
• Insert Coins: Look for the coin slot above the machine. Most washers cost between JPY300 to JPY600, depending on load size. Dryers are usually JPY100 per 10 minutes.
• Press Start: Machines have simple buttons, often labelled in Japanese. The start button is usually big and a different colour than the other buttons.

Some laundromats now accept IC cards like Suica/PASMO, making payment even easier.

Step 4: Drying Your Laundry

Dryers in Japan are powerful, but it’s best to check after 20 to 30 minutes and add more time if necessary. Below is a general overview of drying times for the items you may need to clean on your RV journey across Japan:

• Clothes: Usually dry within 30 to 40 minutes.
• Jeans or Thicker Fabrics: May need 50 to 60 minutes.
• Bedding and Towels: Allow extra time, but expect faster drying compared to electric dryers back home.

While waiting, you can relax in your campervan, grab a meal at a nearby restaurant, or plan your next destination.

Step 5: Staying Organised on the Road

Doing laundry every 4 to 5 days keeps your campervan uncluttered. Here are some organisation tips to ensure your RV stays organised and free from clutter:

• Laundry Bags: Use a mesh bag to separate dirty clothes in the van.
• Fold Immediately: Japanese laundromats often have large folding tables. It’s a good idea to use them to keep clothes neat before packing away.
• Carry Small Change: Keep a pouch of JPY100 coins handy; while many laundries have change machines, it’s best to be prepared.
• Plan Around Your Itinerary: Combine laundry stops with sightseeing or rest days so they don’t eat into travel time.

Stay Comfortable and Clean by Using Coin Laundries on Your Japan RV Trip

Coin laundries are one of the unsung conveniences that make road trips across Japan so enjoyable. Affordable, widely available, and easy to use, they free you from the burden of overpacking and help you stay fresh no matter how long your journey lasts. On a campervan trip, where space is precious and flexibility is key, these laundries are your secret weapon for smooth, stress-free travel.