Summer’s here and it’s proving to be extra hot, breaking records (yet again). And with unbearable heat and humidity comes the extra awareness to stay hydrated. While tap water in Japan is safe to drink, many still prefer some sort of filtration or mineralization for the added benefits.
This guide breaks down the pros, cons, and setup of water servers (ウォーターサーバー) for those renting spaces in Tokyo.
Before we jump into the specifics, let’s first understand the concept of water dispensers and why they can provide extra benefits for you and even help save on additional costs. Perhaps the most obvious reason is that dispensers potentially have better taste and mineral content than tap water. Of course, the taste part is highly subjective because some prefer regular tap water’s mild and pleasant taste. If you find it to have a metallic or slightly chlorinated taste, then it’s recommended to explore other options such as water dispensers.
In terms of convenience, having a dispenser means you no longer need to buy PET bottles daily (unless you like the extra weightlifting exercises). It is also the more eco-friendly option due to the elimination or reduction of plastic waste.
By installing a water dispenser, you don’t need to boil water or chill water in the fridge because you have 24/7 access to hot and cold water – perfect for some refreshing iced tea in this heat or comforting ramen for dinner.
You might think that a dispenser is bulky and requires manual refilling, which takes extra effort and cleaning if you accidentally spill before properly inserting the nozzle. However, there are many more types and sizes available in Japan, given the need for space-saving options.
This is the classic style that offers hot and cold water from gallon bottles (usually 12L or 19L). The bottles are delivered to your door, depending on your required frequency. You can also choose a standalone model or the smaller table/countertop version. This option is best for families, long-term stays, or those who consume a lot of water.
Cost: Water server rental (typicaly free) + ¥3,000 – ¥5000/month for the deliveries
Premium Water: Premium water with a natural taste. Has sleek/minimalist server designs.
Aqua Clara: Mild and delicious softened water. Has a server with an integrated coffee machine.
Kirala Water: Natural mineral water from Mt. Fuji. Has servers with micro-bubbling cleaning functions and touchless designs.
|
Pros |
Cons |
| No need to use tap water (great for those in areas with metallic-tasting water) | Monthly contract required (can also include a lock-in period) |
| Hot and cold water on demand | Requires delivery scheduling and empty bottle returns |
| Clean and mineral-rich water from natural sources | Requires storage space for bottles |
This option might look like a typical server, and it does, but you own the unit and need to refill the internal tank with tap water (filtered or unfiltered). The machine still heats and cools water in the same way. A refillable tank-type dispenser is great for solo renters, students, or those doing short-term stays. The units are also usually smaller, making it perfect for limited kitchen spaces.
Cost: Server unit price ¥8,000 – ¥11,000
YAMAZEN YWS-2 Refillable Water Dispenser: Compatible with supermarket 2L bottles. Hot and cold function.
SOLEMOOD Water Purifier: Purifies water. Has a coffee maker function.
MARINE HOME AQUA CUBE2 AQC-002: Compact design. Heating lever has a safety function.
|
Pros |
Cons |
| No contract/monthly fees | Requires regular refilling and manual cleaning |
| Cheaper in the long run compared to the first option | Water quality depends on your tap source |
| Compact/fits smaller spaces easily and has less plastic consumption (if refilled) | Not as fast or powerful as bottle-type units |
The most convenient option is tapping directly into your supply and filtering the water that comes out of your faucet. The filtration system is often installed under the sink and connected to the tap line. Some models are connected to a designated countertop server unit, which produces the filtered water. This option tends to have more advanced filtering systems and is recommended for long-term setups.
Cost: The filtration system from ¥8,000 – ¥250,000, depending on the type and functionality
Nihon Trim: High-tech purification focused on alkaline ionized water. Great for health-conscious households
Waters Co Japan: Specializes in activated carbon filtration using multi-layer filtration. It can be easily installed and transferred.
Cleansui by Mitsubishi Chemical: Widely used in Japanese homes and even restaurants. Removes bacteria, chlorine, rust, and odors while retaining minerals. Has a filter replacement system available in Bic Camera, Amazon, and other shops.
Honorable mention: Takagi, a mix of options 1 and 3. If you’re looking for an affordable, space-saving faucet-mounted purifier, then this is the dispenser system for you because it’s compact, renter-friendly, and super easy to install. You can subscribe to an automatic delivery of the filter cartridges (around ¥4,500 every three months) or purchase them on Amazon and at local home improvement stores.
The cartridge is inserted into the faucet, and you simply press a button for filtered or regular tap water! The caveat is that you need to have a designated faucet that Takagi produces to have this function.
|
Pros |
Cons |
| No refilling ever, plus it’s more eco-friendly | Requires installation |
| Long-term cost savings | Higher upfront costs |
| More advanced filtration, such as activated carbon or reverse osmosis | Might need plumbing access and can’t be moved to a new place easily |
Let’s take a look at the general cost comparison between using a dispenser and buying bottled water.
|
Aspect |
Server |
Bottled Water (2L) |
| Cost per month | ~¥3,500–¥5,000 | ~¥100/bottle x 30 = ¥3,000 |
| Convenience | Always available | Need to purchase and carry |
| Eco impact | Reusable bottles | High plastic consumption |
| Taste options | Mineral, natural, etc | Limited to store options |
A dispenser might seem like a luxury at first, but with Tokyo’s intense summer months, plus the added convenience, having deliciously filtered and mineralized water outweighs the costs. Whether you’re renting or own your home, there are many options to choose from that fit your budget, palette, and lifestyle needs.
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