How to Set Up Utilities (Gas, Water, Electricity) in Japan: A Beginner's Guide
When you move into a new apartment in Japan, one of the first things you'll need to do is set up your utilities—gas, water, and electricity. The process can seem a bit overwhelming at first, especially if you’re not familiar with the language or the system, but with the right steps, it’s a manageable task. This guide will walk you through how to set up utilities in Japan for the first time.
1. Setting Up Electricity in Japan
In Japan, electricity services are provided by regional utility companies. The most common providers are:
Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO): Serving the Kanto region (Tokyo, Chiba, Kanagawa, etc.)
Kansai Electric Power: Serving the Kansai region (Osaka, Kyoto, Kobe, etc.)
Chubu Electric Power: Serving the Chubu region (Nagoya, etc.)
Hokkaido Electric Power: Serving Hokkaido
Kyushu Electric Power: Serving Kyushu
How to Set Up Electricity:
Contact the Utility Provider: You can set up electricity either by calling the local provider or applying online. It's best to do this as soon as you know your move-in date. If you speak Japanese, you can call the provider directly. If not, some companies offer English support. You will need to provide your address and move-in date.
Set Up the Service: You may need to provide identification (such as your residence card or passport) and a Japanese bank account for billing purposes. Some providers may ask for a deposit, which is refundable when you move out.
Turn on the Power: Electricity is often already connected when you move in. However, if it’s not, you’ll need to schedule a date for the technician to come and turn it on. This typically involves no extra charge.
Paying Your Bill: Bills are usually sent to your address or can be accessed online. Payment can be made via bank transfer, credit card, or at convenience stores.
2. Setting Up Gas in Japan
Gas in Japan is generally used for cooking and heating water, and there are two types of gas: city gas (都市ガス) and propane gas (LPガス). If you live in a large city, you’re likely to have access to city gas, which is more affordable than propane gas.
How to Set Up Gas:
Contact the Gas Provider: The gas company depends on your area. For city gas, you can check with the local city office or your landlord to know which provider to contact. For propane gas, the gas tank is usually provided by a private supplier.
Schedule the Installation: If you’re in an apartment that requires gas to be set up, the provider will send a technician to install the gas meter or check the system. The technician will also explain how to safely use the gas system.
Deposit and Identification: Much like electricity, you will need to provide identification and possibly pay a deposit. Ensure you have your Japanese bank account set up to facilitate payments.
Paying Your Gas Bill: Gas bills are typically sent monthly and can be paid at convenience stores, via bank transfer, or online, similar to electricity bills.
3. Setting Up Water in Japan
Water in Japan is typically managed by local municipalities, and the setup process is quite straightforward.
How to Set Up Water:
Contact the Local Water Department: Most water services are handled by the local city or ward office. You can visit the office in person or check online for details on how to set up water service. In some cases, you may be able to do this via the municipal website.
Submit Your Application: You'll need to provide basic information such as your address, move-in date, and contact details. If you’re renting, your landlord may also assist with this process.
Deposit and Fees: While water generally doesn’t require a deposit, you’ll still need to register and ensure you have your bank account set up for payments.
Paying Your Water Bill: Water bills are typically sent quarterly and can be paid at convenience stores, via bank transfer, or through automatic deductions from your bank account.
4. General Tips for Setting Up Utilities
Language Barrier: If you’re not fluent in Japanese, it’s a good idea to bring a Japanese-speaking friend or use a translation app. Many utility companies have English-speaking staff or at least offer assistance in English for basic inquiries.
Online Services: Many utility companies in Japan offer online portals where you can check your bills and set up automatic payments. If you don’t have a bank account yet, it might be harder to set up online services right away, but this can be done once you have one.
Utility Bills Payment: Paying bills at convenience stores (like 7-Eleven, Lawson, FamilyMart) is very common in Japan. Simply bring your bill to the cashier, and you can pay in cash or by card.
Bank Account: It’s very common to set up a Japanese bank account to automate payments for utilities. This makes managing your bills much easier, as utilities are usually billed on a monthly or quarterly basis.
5. Common Challenges
City Gas vs. Propane Gas: If you move into an area with propane gas, it’s important to understand that your gas bills can be significantly higher. Make sure to check your utility contracts carefully.
Landlord Assistance: In some cases, landlords may help set up utilities or already have accounts set up for the apartment. Always check with your landlord to confirm whether utilities are included in your rent or need to be set up separately.
First-Time Set-Up Fees: Some utility companies may charge an initial connection fee, though this is typically a small one-time fee.
Conclusion
Setting up utilities in Japan may seem like a complicated process, but with a little bit of research and preparation, it can be done easily. It’s important to be proactive about setting up electricity, gas, and water as soon as possible to ensure a smooth transition into your new home. By following these steps, you’ll have everything up and running in no time!