How do you read Japanese food and nutrition labels? Imagine you’re shopping in Japan and suddenly you’re bombarded with food labeling words and information you can’t read. You take out your phone to translate the images, and sometimes it’s right and other times it’s…hardly comprehensible. 

It might be scary to navigate the food aisles of Japanese supermarkets and convenience stores when you don’t know what’s in your food. You might have allergies and dietary restrictions (halal, vegan, etc.), or you just want to watch what you eat. So, maybe it might be nice to know what some of the food labels mean without stressing too much.. 

To understand Japanese ingredients, we are breaking Japanese food labeling standards piece by piece. Read until the end to see a full guide to an actual product food label!

Before you go: Want to learn Japanese for daily life? Practice with Coto Academy and start speaking and reading Japanese! Contact us and sign up for our Japanese courses!

Introduction to Japanese Nutrition & Ingredient Labels

Generally, ingredient information in Japan will be found under the label 原材料名 (genzai ryo mei). Nutrition information is labelled as 栄養成分表示 (eiyou seibun hyouji). 

Like in most other countries, ingredients are usually listed from highest to lowest content by weight. For instance, if wheat is listed first, wheat would make up the largest concentration in the product.

Nutrition information, such as energy, protein, fat, and carbohydrates, is listed separately from ingredient information lists, such as meat, dairy, fruits, vegetables, additives, and artificial flavors.

The chart below shows ingredient labeling (原材料名) and nutrition labeling (栄養成分表示):

Key Nutritional Terms:

Japanese	Furigana	English
エネルギー enerugii	えねるぎー	Energy / Calories
蛋白質 tanpakushitsu	たんぱくしつ	Protein
脂質 shishitsu	ししつ	Fat
炭水化物 tansuikabutsu	たんすいかぶつ	Carbohydrate
糖質 toushitsu	とうしつ	Sugar
食物繊維 shokubutsuseni	しょくぶつせんい	Fiber
食塩 shokuen	しょくえん	Salt
低カロリー teikarorii	ていかろりー	Low Calorie
高たんぱく質 koutanpakushitsu	こうたんぱくしつ	High Protein
無糖 mutou	むとう	No sugar
低脂肪 teishibou	ていしぼう	Low Fat
香料 kouryou	こうりょう	Artificial Flavor / Smell
調味料 choumiryou	ちょうみりょう	Flavor/Taste
水分補給 suibun hokyuu	すいぶんほきゅう	Hydrating

Reading Ingredients And Nutrients On Japanese Labels

So, let’s take a look at an actual food label of a milk carton and see what information we can take away based on what we discussed:

You might be interested in: Top Japanese Supermarkets in Tokyo

Common Ingredients And Nutrition In Japanese

It is always best to know exactly what is in anything you consume, especially in prepackaged or processed food items. Most products will have some form of Japanese labelling on the front of the package (where the brand is usually located).

These products might want to highlight ingredients or nutrients that consumers seek, such as high protein, low calories, or added vitamins.

There are also laws in Japan requiring that promotional nutrient labelling does not mislead consumers. For instance, if a product has a sugar-free label, then it must not contain any traceable amounts of sugar. 

Check out the chart below for an easy guide to common labels on the front of packages:

The Essential Food Labelings To Know In Japanese

Expiration Dates and Best By Dates

You are probably wondering how “use-by” and “best by” dates are labeled on Japanese products. These must always be included on all products and are usually found separated from all other product information. 

What are their differences?

消費期限 shouhi kigen: “Use By” Date

Meaning	This is the last safe date to consume the product. After this date, safety is not guaranteed.
Product Uses	Highly perishable foods that can spoil quickly even if stored properly.
Examples	Fresh bento boxes, sandwiches, raw meat or fish, fresh cream desserts, tofu, milk.
Label Format	Usually printed as 消費期限: YYYY年MM月DD日
Legal Requirement	Mandatory for perishable foods under Japan’s Food Labeling Standards.

賞味期限 shoumi kigen: “Best Before” Date

Meaning	Indicates the date until which the product retains its best quality, not safety. It may still be safe to eat after this date if unopened..
Product Uses	Products with longer shelf lives, where spoilage happens gradually.
Examples	Snacks, canned foods, instant noodles, dry goods, frozen meals, chocolate.
Label Format	Usually printed as 賞味期限: YYYY年MM月DD日
Legal Note	Still safe after expiry if no obvious spoilage, but not guaranteed to taste as good.

Storing Information

Products are required by the Consumer Affairs Agency (CAA) to display best storage practices for perishable goods. All raw meat and fresh dairy products, for example, will need to include information on storing them in a fridge or freezer for the product to last until its “Use By” date. 

Common storage labelling in Japanese:

Japanese	Furigana	English Meaning
保存方法 hozon houhou	ほぞんほうほう	Storage method/instructions
常温で保存 jouon de hozon	じょうおんでほぞん	Store at room temperature
直射日光、高温多湿を避けて保存 chokusha nikkou, kouon tashitsu o sakete hozon	ちょくしゃにっこう、こうおんたしつをさけてほぞん	Avoid direct sunlight, high temperature, and humidity
要冷蔵（10℃以下）youreizou (juudo ika)	ようれいぞう（10℃いか）	Keep refrigerated (below 10°C)
要冷凍（-18℃以下）youreitou (mainasu juuhachi-do ika)	ようれいとう（-18℃いか）	Keep frozen (below -18°C)
開封後は早めにお召し上がりくださいkaifuugo wa hayame ni omeshiagari kudasai	かいふうごははやめにおめしあがりください	Consume as soon as possible after opening

Certified Japanese Food Labels

Official government agencies such as the CAA or the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries (MAFF) established certified markings for products meeting certain standards. 

These markings can indicate whether a product is certified to be “healthy”, for “special dietary needs,” “organic”, and much more. 

There are quite a few governmental bodies granting different markers, so here is a non-exhaustive list of certified labels to keep an eye out for:

Tokutei hokenyou shokuhin (特定保健用食品)

Simply トクホ tokuho, it is a certified marking granted by the CAA. It indicates a product has been proven with rigorous scientific evidence to be safe and effective for specific health purposes. 

View the logo on CAA’s Food Labeling Website

Jouken tsuki tokutei hoken you shokuhin (条件付き特保健用食品)

The only difference is that products with this marker has some scientific evidence to be effective for certain health purposes, just not with the same rigor as theトクホ. 

View the logo on CAA’s Food Labeling Website

Tokubetsu you to shokuhin (特別用途食品)

This marker indicates that an item has met the standards to be safe to consume for those with special dietary considerations, like milk formula or a diabetic-friendly menu. 

View the logo on CAA’s Foods For Special Dietary Needs page

公正 (kousei) or Fair Trade

The Fair Trade marker shows that products and producers align with fair competition rules. It can also signify that everything on the product’s packaging is indeed true. This marker is usually granted to items such as milk, edible salt, honey, eggs or cod roe.

View the different 公正 labels on the Japanese Federation of Fair Trade Conferences website

JAS

This is a label stating that the quality of a product and its ingredients meet the Japan Agricultural Standard (JAS) set by the MAFF.

See the logo on the official JAS Website

JAS Organic

This is the Organic JAS marker, which indicates that a product meets the JAS standards for organic labelling. 

This means that the product has no artificial additives, preservatives, or coloring. There was no use of chemical pesticides, fertilizers, or GMOs.

Check out the logo on the JAS Website

Dietary Labels (Halal, Kosher, and Vegan) in Japan

You can find other labels for religious, ethical, or personal dietary restrictions, especially the common labels including halal, kosher, and vegan. They are not as widespread nor provided by the Japanese government, but they are granted by independent organizations and are found in most supermarkets.

Halal

This is one of the halal-certified markers. There are many organizations in Japan that provide a halal certification, including the Japan Halal Business Association.
For the most part, in order to pass, ingredients and production must align with halal standards.

Kosher

Kosher certified marker provided by the Kosher Japan Company. They are the first organization in Japan to certify products and producers as Kosher. Products and production processes must pass examinations conducted by Kosher Japan to receive the certified label.

Vegan & Vegetarian

Vegan & Vegetarian certified labels which are provided by the NPO Vege Project. Their labels are the most widely used vegan and vegetarian markings in Japan.
Products have to pass the organization’s standards of vegan or vegetarian in order to be certified.

Allergen Food Labels & Ingredients In Japanese

The CAA defined eight allergens that must be declared in the ingredient list (原材料名). These eight allergens include the following:

Japanese	Furigana	English
卵 tamago	たまご	Egg
乳 nyu	にゅう	Milk/Dairy
小麦 komugi	こむぎ	Wheat
海老 ebi	えび	Shrimp
カニ kani	かに	Crab
そば soba	そば	Buckwheat
落花生 / ピーナツ rakkasei/piinatsu	らっかせい / ぴーなつ	Peanuts
くるみ kurumi	くるみ	Walnuts

Oftentimes, allergens are included in other products, have been modified from its original form, or can consist of different variations. Here are some common labelling conventions:

• 乳等を主要原料 とする食品 chichito o shuyou genryou to suru shokuhin: Food product with milk products as the main ingredient
• 卵由来 tamago yurai: Products originating from eggs
• 乳製品 nyuu seihin: Dairy products
• Ingredients used in products such as 醤油 shoyu, or soy sauce, contain allergens and may be labelled: 醤油(大豆・小麦を含む）

There is no set legal standard on how to label allergens in Japan. They are only required to list the 8 specific allergens in the ingredient list. But for better clarity, food products will sometimes list allergy-inducing contents separately with the following labels:

• アレルゲン arerugen: allergens
• アレルギー物質 arerugii busshitsu: allergy contents
• 含まれるアレルゲン fukumareru arerugen: included allergens

There are also times when the specific terms アレルゲン or アレルギー物質 are not used but allergens are still listed separately, often at the end of the ingredient list and in parentheses. For example:

• (一部に乳成分・大豆・アーモンドを含む) ichibu ni chichiseibun, daizu, aamondo o fukumu: Contains some dairy, soy, and almonds

Other Allergens To Know

The 8 allergens listed above are the only ingredients required by Japanese law to be labelled on food packaging. However, the CAA has outlined 20 more allergens that they highly recommend to be included on product ingredient labeling. 

As of 2025, this is the most up-to-date list:  

Japanese		Furigana	English
大豆 daizu		だいず	Soybeans
ごま goma		ごま	Sesame
アーモンド aamondo		あーもんど	Almonds
カシューナッツ kashuunattsu		かしゅーなっつ	Cashew nuts
マカダミアナッツ makadamia nattsu		まかだみあなっつ	Macadamia nuts
いくら ikura		いくら	Salmon Roe
鮑 awabi		あわび	Abalone
いか ika		いか	Squid
鯖 saba		さば	Mackerel
鮭 / サーモン sake/saamon		さけ / さーもん	Salmon
鶏肉 toriniku		とりにく	Chicken
牛肉 gyuuniku		ぎゅうにく	Beef
豚肉 butaniku		ぶたにく	Pork
ゼラチン zerachin		ぜらちん	Gelatin
キウィ kiui		きうぃ	Kiwi
桃 momo		もも	Peach
りんご ringo		りんご	Apple
バナナ banana		ばなな	Banana
オレンジ orenji		おれんじ	Orange
山芋 yamaimo		やまいも	Wild Yam

How Agricultural Products And Perishables Are Labeled In Japanese

Fresh Vegetables And Fruit Products

How are vegetables and fruits labeled in Japan? Like many markets around the world, fresh fruits and vegetables are often not prepackaged, thus, information such as the item name and place of origin is displayed at the point of purchase. 

And if any additives were used, they must also be displayed around the product as well. If the products are organic, you might find the JAS Organic label on the product signboard as well.

For terminology for fruits in Japanese, check out our article: Fruit Vocabulary Cheat Sheet. 

But don’t forget your vegetables! We have one for that too: Japanese Vegetables Vocabulary Cheat Sheet

Meat Products

Japanese laws mandate that any products containing meat must be declared in the ingredient list. 

When it comes to raw meat, the following rules apply:

• All meat products from Japan must say its domestic (prefecture is optional)
• Imported meat products must state their country of origin
• For domestic beef, the cattle’s identification number needs to be included on the packaging.
• If the meat is packaged, they must include the name of the product, net quantity, use-by date, storage information, and the producer’s name and address

Below are some typical labeling conventions for raw meat products:

Japanese	Furigana	English
豚バラ肉 butabara niku	ぶたばらにく	Pork belly meat
国産 kokusan	こくさん	Domestic (often prefecture or town is stated instead if domestic)
保存方法 (要冷蔵4°C以下) hozon houhou (kanameireizo 4°C ika)	ほぞんほうほう　（かなめいれいぞう4°Cいか）	Storing information (Must Refrigerate at 4°C or below)
消費期限 shouhi kigen 25. 1. 1.	しょうひきげん 25. 1. 1.	Use Before 1/1/2025
内容量 naiyouryou 800 g	ないようりょう 800 g	Weight Content: 800 g

Below is a graphic showing meat and certain meat products to be aware of:

Dairy Products

Fresh and processed dairy products are regulated by both the CAA and MAFF. All dairy products must clearly declare product contents such as milk fat, non-milk fat solids, ingredients, and any preservatives or additives. 

Additionally, dairy products have unique labeling rules requiring them to declare product categories:

Category	Japanese	Requirements
Milk	牛乳 gyuunyuu	Unaltered raw milk, pasteurized; no additives. Must contain: ≥ 3.0% milk fat, ≥ 8.0% non-fat solids
Low-fat milk	低脂肪牛乳 teishibou gyuunyuu	Milk fat between 0.5% and 1.5%
Non-fat milk	無脂肪牛乳 mushibou gyuunyuu	Milk fat less than 0.5%
Processed milk	成分調整牛乳 seibun chousei gyuunyuu	Some milk components (fat, water, solids) adjusted, but no added ingredients
Milk drinks	乳飲料 nyuu inryou	Includes added ingredients (e.g., vitamins, calcium, sugar, flavoring)
Fermented milk	発酵乳 hakkounyuu	Includes yogurt; must declare presence of live bacteria
Lactic acid bacteria drinks	乳酸菌飲料 nyuusankin inryou	Lower milk content, more like Yakult-style drinks

Quick Tip: Notched Milk Cartons

So, pure milk cartons in Japan have a notched or small arc cut at the top of the carton’s flap. This is used to let people with poor eyesight know that the item is pure milk and not some other dairy product such as yogurt, non-fat milk, etc. No other diary product will have this marking unless it is pure whole milk.

Additive Ingredients In Japanese

Any additives in the product must be declared according to Japan’s Food Labelling Standards to protect consumers, especially those with allergies. However, food additives are highly regulated by the Ministry of Health, Labor, and Welfare (MHLW). Any additives that producers use in their products need to be approved according to Japan’s Food Safety and Hygiene Act. 

Products with the JAS organic label generally contain no additives and are certified to ensure the entire production process is free from chemical additives. While products without the label may also be additive-free, the certification offers greater assurance.

Here is a list of additives and processed product terms that are good to know:

Japanese		Furigana	English
添加 tenka		てんか	Additives
甘味料 kanmiryou		かんみりょう	Sweeteners (e.g., aspartame, sucralose)
着色料 chakushokuryou		ちゃくしょくりょう	Coloring agents (e.g., carmine, tartrazine)
保存料 hozonryou		ほぞんりょう	Preservatives (e.g., sodium benzoate)
増粘剤 zounenzai		ぞうねんざい	Thickeners (e.g., xanthan gum)
酸化防止剤 sanka boushizai		さんかぼうしざい	Antioxidants (e.g., BHA, BHT)
酸味料 sanmiryou		さんみりょう	Acidulants (e.g., citric acid)
香料 kouryou		こうりょう	Flavors or flavoring agents
調味料（アミノ酸等）choumiryou (amino-san tou)		ちょうみりょう　（あみのさんとう）	Seasoning (e.g., MSG and other amino acids)
乳化剤 nyukazai		にゅうかざい	Emulsifiers
膨張剤 bouchouzai		ぼうちょうざい	Leavening agents (e.g., baking powder)
酵素 kouso		こうそ	Enzymes
光沢剤 koutakuzai		こうたくざい	Glazing agents
安定剤 anteizai		あんていざい	Stabilizers
pH調整剤 pH chouseizai		pHちょうせいざい	pH adjusters
発色剤 hasshokuzai		はっしょくざい	Curing agents (e.g., sodium nitrite)
防かび剤 boukabizai		ぼうかびざい	Antifungal agents (mainly for citrus and fruits)
漂白剤 hyouhakuzai		ひょうはくざい	Bleaching agents
苦味料 nigamiryou		にがみりょう	Bitterness agents (often in liqueurs or candy)

Additive Labeling Rules:

Additives must be listed by function + specific name, for example:

• 着色料(カラメル) chakushokuryou(karameru) = Coloring agent (caramel)
• 甘味料(アスパルテーム) kaminryou(asuparuteemu)  = Sweetener (aspartame)
• Group names like 調味料(アミノ酸等) choumiryou (amino santou) are allowed for additive mixtures, especially flavor enhancers
• If a product has no additives, 無添加 mutenka (additive-free) or the JAS organic label may be used

Wrapping Up

It might seem overwhelming initially, but Japanese food and nutrition labels use consistent terminology and consumer protection is taken seriously in Japan, so common allergens, meat products, and additives are required to be listed on products.

Of course, we don’t expect you to remember every word listed in this article but try to remember a specific term you might want to ask the staff about (like タンパク質 or protein). We hope this guide gives you some tools to look out for what you need!

Want to learn more Japanese for daily life? Check out courses at Coto Academy, available in Tokyo and Yokohama!

What are common Japanese ingredients?

Common Japanese ingredients include soy sauce, miso, rice wine, rice vinegar, salt, sugar, tofu, seasonal vegetables, different fish (tuna and mackerel are common), and much more.

What are some standard Japanese labeling practices?

Labelling practices in Japan largely consist of rules established by the Japanese government. As standard Japanese products list the following: allergens, ingredients, nutrient information, content weight/quantity, how to store, and best by/use by dates.

How are allergens labelled in Japanese?

The Japanese Consumer Affairs Agency (CAA) requires that eight specific allergens be clearly disclosed on any product containing them: peanuts, walnuts, eggs, milk, shrimp, crab, buckwheat, and wheat. Additionally, the CAA recommends labeling 20 other potential allergens.

Do Japanese foods have a lot of additives?

Additives are quite common in a lot of pre-packaged food items since preservatives are useful in preserving product shelf life, and additives are great for making things taste better. All additives must be listed in ingredient lists in Japan.

Does Japanese cuisine use MSG?

Yes, Japanese cuisine often uses MSG or 調味料 (アミノ酸) shoumiryou (amino san). They are commonly found in different common seasonings, restaurants, and pre-packaged foods. The Aji no Moto brand is the most common MSG producer and can be found in most super markets.

Read our other guides to Japanese:

• Japanese Washing Machines
• Guide to Japanese Rice Cooker
• Guide to Japanese Toilets
• Guide to Japanese Bathtubs
• Guide To Japanese Cooking And Recipes Vocabulary
• Guide to Vegan Shopping in Japan
• Download Free Kanji Worksheet on Food Labels

Finding a gym in Japan and having a consistent workout routine is one of the quickest ways to feel at home in a new city. Are you living in Tokyo long-term and looking for a place to exercise? Here’s a quick guide that outlines some popular gyms, how to sign up and cancel, as well as some helpful phrases in Japanese to use along the way.  

Gym Memberships and Walk-In Options

Most gyms in Japan require a membership, which often includes an initial registration fee. However, if you’re a short-term visitor or prefer flexibility, some gyms offer day passes or pay-as-you-go options. Here are some common types of gyms you’ll find:

1. Major Gym Chains:

Places like Anytime Fitness, Gold’s Gym, and Joyfit have locations across Japan and offer short-term memberships or visitor passes. These tend to have more expensive membership fees than what you’ll find in other countries. However, they do have a wide range of amenities, services, and a bit more high-quality equipment than a public gym. They are also generally open 24 hours, and many offer English-language services or discounts for new members. If you have a gym you frequent back home, you may even be able to find a branch of the franchise here in Japan. 

2. Municipal Sports Centers:

In Tokyo, most wards have several public sports centers that you can use for an hourly fee. These have the basic training rooms, equipment, and amenities a private gym might have, but they are not 24 hours and might not include more luxurious amenities, such as showers. Their equipment is also usually not as nice as that in private gyms, and they often don’t provide English assistance. If you’re more budget-conscious or don’t want to commit to a membership, a public gym is a way to go. 

So how do you find the closest public gym to you? These facilities go by several different names, so you can try searching for any of the following.  

• “sports centers” (or スポーツセンター, supoutsu senta)
• “gymnasiums,” (体育館, taiikukan) 
• “sports plazas,” (スポーツプラザ, supoutsu puraza) 
• “health centers” (健康センター, kenkou sentā)  

These are city-run facilities that provide affordable fitness options. For example, Shinjuku Sports Center offers access to gym facilities for 400 yen per three hours, with an optional pool use for an additional 200 yen. Tokyo Metropolitan Gymnasium in Sendagaya offers a wide range of amenities, including two pools, sports fields, as well as over 30 different cardio machines, a free-weights area, several bench press machines, and squat racks. Access cost ¥600 for a two-and-a-half hour gym pass and ¥2,500 for a day pass. 

3. Hotel and Capsule Hotel Gyms:

If you’re staying at a hotel, check if they have a gym available for guests. Some capsule hotels also offer fitness areas.

How Much Does Gym Membership Cost in Japan?

Private gyms in Japan are pretty expensive. Gyms such as Anytime Fitness, Gold’s Gym, Joyfit, and Chocozap have locations across Japan and offer short-term memberships or visitor passes. Membership fees vary, with Anytime Fitness typically ranging from 6,800 to 9,000 yen per month, Gold’s Gym from 8,000 to 15,000 yen per month, and Chocozap offering an affordable option at around 3,000 yen per month.

Many private gyms have discounts or campaigns for new members, offering the first 1-3 months of use for free. Keep an eye out for any advertisements on your local gym’s website or in person. Be prepared, though, that many of these campaigns come with fine print, and may require you to sign up for a minimum amount of months after the free period is over, or tack on some extra fees.  

Public and Private Gyms in Japan

Generally, there are two different kinds of gyms in Japan: private and public.

1. Public Gyms 

In Tokyo, most wards have several public sports centers that you can use for an hourly fee. These have the basic training rooms, equipment, and amenities a private gym might have, but they are not 24 hours and might not include more luxurious amenities, such as showers. Their equipment is also usually not as nice as that in private gyms, and they often don’t provide English assistance. If you’re more budget-conscious or don’t want to commit to a membership, a public gym is a way to go. 

So how do you find the closest public gym to you? These facilities go by several different names, so you can try searching for any of the following.  

• “sports centers” (or スポーツセンター, supoutsu senta)
• “gymnasiums,” (体育館, taiikukan) 
• “sports plazas,” (スポーツプラザ, supoutsu puraza) 
• “health centers” (健康センター, kenkou sentā)  

Private Gyms

These tend to have more expensive membership fees than what you’ll find in other countries. However, they do have a wide range of amenities, services, and a bit more high-quality equipment than a public gym. They are also generally open 24 hours, and many offer English-language services or discounts for new members. If you have a gym you frequent back home, you may even be able to find a branch of the franchise here in Japan.    

How Much Does Gym Membership Cost in Japan?

As mentioned, private gyms in Japan are pretty expensive. They cost more than you’d find in many western countries. Monthly fees are usually anywhere between ¥7,500 and ¥20,000 per month, depending on the gym. Typically, expect to pay around ¥8,000. 

Many private gyms have discounts or campaigns for new members, offering the first 1-3 months of use for free. Keep an eye out for any advertisements on your local gym’s website or in person. Be prepared, though, that many of these campaigns come with fine print, and may require you to sign up for a minimum amount of months after the free period is over, or tack on some extra fees. 

Gym Etiquette and Rules

Japanese gyms follow strict etiquette rules that may be different from what you’re used to. Here are some important things to keep in mind:

• Indoor Shoes Only: Most gyms require you to bring a separate pair of clean indoor shoes to use inside the gym. Outdoor shoes are usually not allowed.
• Wipe Down Equipment: Always clean the machines after use with the provided sanitizing wipes or towels.
• No Tattoos?: Many gyms prohibit visible tattoos due to cultural associations with the yakuza. If you have tattoos, consider covering them with clothing or using special tattoo covers.
• No Phone Calls: Taking calls inside the workout area is generally frowned upon. Keep phone usage discreet.
• No Grunting or Dropping Weights: Excessive noise while lifting is discouraged. Many gyms enforce strict noise policies.

Where to Find English-speaking Gyms in Japan

While it is more than possible to get by and enjoy working in an all-Japanese environment, there are many Japanese-run gyms that are entirely English Speaking or offer classes and trainers who can speak with you entirely in English. You can also find many global chains like Orangetheory Fitness and Crossfit, in Tokyo. 

Visit Club 360 Fitness & Rehabilitation for a wide array of group-taught or one-on-one classes from boxing to Barre. You can even get massages or book a personal trainer. English speakers teach all classes. There are locations in Roppongi and Azabujuban. Prices vary, check here for more detailed pricing. 

Go to Orangetheory in Azabujuban for a 60-minute guided workout. If you are more interested in participating in group workouts, taking classes, or hiring a personal trainer, this option might be for you.  

Basic Membership

• ¥13,200〜
• 4 classes/month
• Extra classes at reduced rate

See more membership option here!

24/7 Gyms and Convenient Options

Japan has seen a rise in convenience gyms, similar to 24/7 convenience stores. These small-scale fitness centers are open 24 hours a day and require membership cards for entry, allowing members to work out at any time.

Popular 24-hour gym chains include:

• Anytime Fitness (International membership often works)
• Fast Gym 24
• Joyfit 24
• ChocoZAP

How to Find a Gym in Japan

If you’re looking for a gym near your location, here are some tips:

• Use Google Maps and search for “gym” or “フィットネスジム” (fitness gym) in Japanese.
• Check municipal sports centers in your area for affordable options.
• Ask locals or expats in Japan-based Facebook groups or Reddit forums for recommendations.

Do you Need Japanese skill to Go to a Gym in Japan?

Generally, yes, but if you live in Tokyo, you will find more English-speaking gyms for foreigners. If not, we recommend you bring a translator or Japanese friend to help you fill out the forms and consult with the dentist.

If you would like to learn Japanese and speak fluently, we recommend taking part-time or intensive Japanese courses at Coto Academy. Our school focuses on practical skills and conversation training, which will help you get by daily activities in Japan confidently. Get a free lesson consultation today.

As always, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us if you have any queries.

How to Sign Up for a Gym in Japan

If you decide to join a private gym, you’ll have to visit in person to sign up for a membership. (This does vary, though. Some gyms have an online sign-up procedure, as well). If you aren’t very confident in your Japanese, you can reach out via email in advance to request English language support. If you’re especially nervous and have a friend who is fluent in Japanese, we recommend that you bring them along with you, as well. 

Remember before you go:

• Bring your residence card or passport with you when you visit. 
• Bring a credit card or bank book. Gyms will use this information to charge your monthly membership fee.  
• Since most private gyms are 24 hours, make sure to check which hours staff will be there ahead of time. Most gym websites have these hours listed.  

When you arrive: 

• Find a staff member and say you’d like to become a member of their gym. 
• The staff will give you a tour around the gym and explain the amenities, rules, and details before you start your application. 
• Fill out the application form and present your identification.
• Give the staff your credit card or bank account information. Depending on the gym, you may be asked to pay a month or two month’s membership fees upfront.  
• You’re all finished!

Japanese Phrases when Signing Up at a Gym in Japan

I’d like to sign up for a gym membership	ジム会員に登録したいです	Jimu kaiin ni tōroku shitaidesu
Can I do a trial session before registering as a member?	会員登録の前に体験セッションをすることはできますか	Kaiin tōroku no mae ni taiken sesshon o suru koto wa dekimasu ka?
How much does a membership cost?	会費はいくらですか？	Kaihi wa ikura desu ka?



How to Cancel a Gym Membership in Japan

So you want to cancel your gym membership. We’ve all been there. Maybe your financial situation has changed, or you’ve found a new gym closer to your work.  Luckily most gyms in Japan don’t have as many penalties for canceling as you may be used to in other countries. 

Every gym has a different cancellation policy, so be sure to check your contract ahead of time. Some may have deadlines to cancel each month, charge a cancellation fee, or require a minimum number of months as a member before canceling.

Check out what to say when you want to end your gym membership in Japan below.

How does membership cancellation work?	退会する場合の手続きを教えてください?	Taikai suru baai no tetsuzuki o oshiete kudasai.
I’d like to cancel my membership, please.	ジム会員を退会したいんです。	Jimu kaiin o taikai shitain desu.



Japanese Gym Phrases and Vocabulary

What about talking inside a Japanese gym? Here are some of the common Japanese phrases you might want to use.

Can I rent a towel/shoes?	タオル/靴のレンタルはできますか	Taoru/ kutsu no rentaru wa dekimasu ka
Are you finished?	終りましたか	Owarimashita ka
Can I use this?	これ、使ってもいいですか	Kore, tsukatte mo ii desu ka
Is the pool open today?	今日、プールは開いていますか	Kyō, puuru wa aite imasu ka



For gym-related vocabulary, such as the human body parts and training equipment, check out the table below.

Weight Training / Working out	ウェイトトレーニング / 筋トレ	Weito toreeningu /Kin toree
Weights / Dumbells	重り / ダンベル	Omori / Danberu
Treadmill	ランニングマシン	Ranningu mashiin
Warm-up	準備運動	Junbi undou
(to) Stretch	伸びをする	Nobi o suru
(to) Sweat	汗をかく	Ase o kaku
(to) Jog	ジョギングする	Jogingu suru
(to) Squat	しゃがむ	Shagamu
Muscle	筋肉	Kinniku
Chest	胸	Mune
Shoulder	肩	Kata
Back	背中	Senaka

Final Tips for a Smooth Gym Experience

• Bring a Towel and Water Bottle: Some gyms don’t provide these essentials.
• Check for Locker Fees: Some places charge extra for locker use.
• Respect Personal Space: Japanese culture emphasizes mindfulness of others, so avoid unnecessary conversations or lingering in areas like stretching zones.

By following these guidelines, you’ll be able to enjoy a seamless and enjoyable gym experience in Japan while respecting local customs and fitness culture!

FAQ

How much do gyms cost in Tokyo?

Private gyms range anywhere from ~¥7,500 to nearly ~¥20,000 a month.

What should I bring to a gym in Japan?

Make sure to bring: 

• Cover any large tattoos before entering, as well.
• A pair of indoor shoes. 
• A towel. If the gym has a public shower, bring along a bath towel, as well. Things such as soap and shampoo will be provided.
• Your own water bottle.
• Cash. Most public gym entrance fees are paid using a ticket machine, which accepts only cash. If you have trouble reading Japanese, ask a staff member for help. 

Am I allowed to bring my phone with me on the gym floor?

Yes! But be aware that talking on the phone or playing music without headphones is not allowed. Additionally, no photographs or videos are allowed in most Japanese gyms. 

Can I hire a personal trainer in Japan?

Ask the staff at your private or public gym if they offer personal training sessions for an extra cost. They usually offer these one-on-one or group sessions at a discounted price for members or in discounted bundles. 

Are there women-only gyms in Japan?

Yes! Japan has several women-only gyms, such as Curves and some branches of major chains like Gold’s Gym. These facilities offer a comfortable and private environment for female members.

Can I use my international gym membership in Japan?

Some international chains, like Anytime Fitness, allow members to access their gyms in Japan if they have a global membership. However, it’s best to check with your specific gym before traveling.

Want to Study Japanese in Japan?

If you want to study Japanese online or in person in Tokyo or Yokohama, get in touch with us. We offer a free level check and consultation to match you with the best course!

Check out our Guide to Your Japanese Series

• Guide to Going to The dentist in Japan
• Guide to Japanese Washing Machines
• Guide to Your Japanese Rice Cookers
• Guide to Your Japanese Food Labels
• Guide to your Japanese Bathtubs

Have you ever used a Japanese toilet? If not, you’re in for a treat! Bidets have been popular in Japan for decades, and they’re quickly gaining popularity all around the world. Going to the bathroom in Japan for the first time is often interesting as in the West, we do not usually have buttons on our toilets. With numerous buttons for you to guess and press, Japanese toilets could surprise you with their different functions.

These high-tech bathroom fixtures are designed to clean your private areas after using the toilet, and they come with a range of features that make them a must-have for anyone looking to upgrade their bathroom experience. But what makes Japanese bidets so special?

In this ultimate guide, we’ll take a deep dive into the world of Japanese bidets, exploring how they work, the benefits they offer, and why you need one in your life. We have combined the important kanjis you should know for each of the most popular toilet models in Japan. The next time you answer nature’s call, you wouldn’t be guessing the use of each button on a Japanese toilet!

How Japanese Bidets Work

A lot of toilets in other countries have been using bidets or sprays, but nothing’s quite like Japanese toilets. Of course, Japanese bidets have the usual spray that uses water for cleaning. They’re attached to existing toilets and come with a range of features that make them both hygienic and comfortable to use.

The most basic Japanese bidet will simply spray water onto your skin, but more advanced models will come with heated seats, air dryers, and even deodorizers. Some models even have built-in music players and LED lights to create a spa-like experience.

The water used by Japanese bidets is typically warm, which makes for a more comfortable experience. Some models even come with adjustable water temperature, pressure, and spray patterns so that you can customize the experience to your liking. Many Japanese bidets also use a self-cleaning mechanism to keep the nozzle clean between uses!

Overall, Japanese bidets are designed to provide a more thorough and hygienic cleaning experience than traditional toilet paper. They’re also more environmentally friendly since they reduce the amount of toilet paper used.

How Was the Japanese Bidet Discovered?

Bidets have been around for centuries, but the first electronic bidet was invented in Japan in the 1960s. These early models were simple and consisted of a basic spray system. However, as technology advanced, so did the bidet. In the 1980s, Japanese companies began adding more features to their bidets, such as heated seats and air dryers.

Today, Japanese bidets are some of the most advanced in the world. As of 2016, 81% of Japanese households use bidets, more commonly called washlets. Washlet is basically the brand name of Toto, the number one manufacturer of Japanese toilets. They come with a range of features that make them both hygienic and comfortable to use. Japanese bidet manufacturers are constantly improving their products, adding new features and technologies to make the bidet experience even better

How to Read Japanese Toilet Buttons

When you first see the washlet  (ウォシュレット, Woshuretto) — the typical model of the Japanese electronic toilet — you’ll stumble upon the control pad with a lot of buttons on the side of the toilet. Sometimes, it can even be attached to the wall on your side.

Most of the labels of the buttons come in English, but you might still be confused with what each function does. Below, you’ll find what the functions of each button do!

Buttons	Romaji	English	Function
止	tome	stop	used to stop the water spray from either the oshiri or bide
おしり	oshiri	rear	used to spray water for rear washing
ビデ	bide	bidet	used to spray water for front washing
音/音姫	oto/otohime	sound	Press this to turn on the water sound stimulator to make yourself more discrete
音停止	ototeishi	stop sound	Press this to stop the sound.
水勢	suisei	water pressure	This controls the water pressure for your spray.
音量	onryou	sound volume	This controls the volume when you have the sound stimulator on.
パワー脱臭	pawaadasshu	deodorant	Deodorizer filters out all unpleasant smells.

Keep in mind that the labels and buttons above are the most common ones you’ll find in a standard Japanese toilet. Still, here are some other cool functions and variations you’ll find in other models!

Label	Romaji	English	Function
乾燥	Kansou	Dry	Use this to dry your rear or front after washing.
入/切	Iri/setsu	On/off
弱	Yowai	Weak	Use to set the pressure of the water (weak)
強	Tsuyoi	Strong	Use to set the pressure of the water (strong)
洗浄位置	Senjou ichi	Nozzle position	Use this to adjust the nozzle position
前	Mae	Front	(For adjusting nozzle position)
後	Ato	Back	(For adjusting nozzle position)
温度設定	Ondo settei	temperature setting	This is used to set the temperature of the toilet seat
便座	Benza	Toilet seat
温水	Onsui	Warm water
流す	Nagasu	Flush	Flush the toilet
大	Oo	Big
小	Ko	Small

How to Use Japanese Smart Toilets

Once you understand the functions of each button on a Japanese toilet, using it will be easy. Here are some important points to note:

1. Automatic Sensors

Many restrooms in Japan, especially those with newer toilets, have automatic sensors for various functions. For example, a sound simulator may activate when someone enters the cubicle, even without pressing any buttons. Be careful not to confuse it with the regular flush button, as the sound simulator is often attached to the wall. Additionally, some modern toilets automatically flush as soon as you get off the seat. Finally, don’t be surprised if the toilet cover automatically rises when you enter the cubicle as even newer models will have a motion sensor for that.

2. Emergency Call Button

Some toilets are equipped with an emergency call button, usually located next to the flush button. This button is intended for use by people with disabilities or in case of sudden illness while on the toilet. It is labeled as “yobidashi” and should only be used in emergencies. It is often colored in red or yellow, which can be misleading, as many people may mistake it for the flush button.

3. Locating the Flush Button

Depending on the toilet model, the flush button may be located on the side of the tank, replaced by a push button, a motion-control sensor, or integrated into the main control box mounted on the wall. Take care not to confuse it with the button for the water simulator sound or the emergency call button. Look for labels such as 流す, 大, or 小 to identify the flush button.

4. Flushing Toilet Paper

In Japan, it is customary to throw toilet paper directly into the toilet after use. However, it is important to ensure that you are using actual toilet paper and not paper towels or facial tissues, as these can cause clogs. Other items such as sanitary pads or wrappers should be disposed of in a small trashcan inside the cubicle.

By following these guidelines, you can confidently and effectively use a Japanese smart toilet.

Western vs Japanese Toilets

Japanese bidets are often compared to traditional Western toilets, which use toilet paper to clean the private areas after using the toilet. While both methods are effective at cleaning, bidets offer several advantages over traditional Western toilets.

Bidets provide a more thorough and hygienic cleaning experience than toilet paper. They use water to clean their private areas, which is more effective at removing bacteria and other harmful substances than dry toilet paper.

Bidets are also more environmentally friendly since they reduce the amount of toilet paper used. This is not only good for the environment but can also help save you money in the long run.

Finally, bidets are more comfortable to use than traditional Western toilets. They come with heated seats, which is especially beneficial during cold winter months. Some models even come with air dryers and deodorizers, which can make for a more pleasant bathroom experience.

It’s gotten to the point where even foreigners who have lived in Japan for a long time claim that they could never go back to using just toilet paper in their bathrooms!

Conclusion

Of course, no one is coming to Japan just to try the smart Japanese toilets, but it’s defnintely one of the unique things you can only experience here! These high-tech bathroom fixtures provide a more thorough and hygienic cleaning experience than traditional Western toilets, and they come with a range of features that make them both comfortable and easy to use.

And who knows, after trying them, you might be looking to upgrade your own bathroom experience.

Other Guide to Your Japanese Series

• Guide to you Japanese Washing Machines
• Guide to Your Japanese Rice Cookers
• Guide to Your Japanese Food Labels
• Guide to your Japanese Bathtubs

FAQ

Is Japanese bidets easy to use?

No, Japanese bidets are very easy to use. They come with intuitive controls that allow you to customize the experience to your liking.

What are the cost of Japanese bidets?

The cost of Japanese bidets can vary depending on the features and technology included. However, there are many affordable options available on the market.

What are Japanese bidets?

Japanese bidets use a minimal amount of water to clean your private areas. They’re actually more environmentally friendly than traditional Western toilets, which use a lot of toilet paper.

Are Japanese bidets designed for hygienic cleaning experiences?

Yes, Japanese bidets are designed to provide a hygienic cleaning experience. They use water to clean your private areas, which is more effective at removing bacteria and other harmful substances than dry toilet paper.

With innovative technologies, Japanese rice cookers can do more than just cook rice. This infographic is designed as a handy resource so that you can remember which buttons on your Japanese rice cooker do which functions.
We hope this infographic is helpful to you – we also will be publishing guides to other Japanese appliances on this blog in the future – so stay tuned!

Vocabulary:

1. 保温                        (hoon)                                Keep warm
2. 選択                        (sentaku)                            Choice/option
3. メニュー                (menyu-)                            Menu
4. とりけし                (torikeshi)                           Reset/cancel
5. 白米/炊きこみ      (hakumai/takikomi)            White/mix rice
6. 無洗米                    (musenmai)                        Rinse free rice
7. 白米急速                (hakumai kyuusoku)         Quick cook
8. おかゆ                    (okayu)                                Porridge
9. 標準                        (hyoujun)                           Normal
10. 高め                        (takame)                             High
11. 玄米                        (genmai)                             Brown rice
12. 玄米活性                (genmai kassei)                Gaba brown rice
13. 雑穀米                    (zakkoku mai)                    Multigrain rice
14. 時刻合わせ            (jikoku awase)                   Time adjustment
15. 予約                        (yoyaku)                              Timer
16. 炊飯                        (suihan)                              Cooking button

Challenge yourself the next time you visit your kitchen with this cheat sheet! If you need a recipe for fried rice, though, check out everything you need to know about Chahan here! (more…)