Category
Setting Up Utilities in Japan for Foreigners
Electricity, water, and gas each have different signup processes. This page covers how to start each service, what to expect, and how to set up payment.
What is here
- Electricity: online signup, choose your provider.
- Water: contact local waterworks bureau.
- Gas: mandatory in-person safety inspection.
New to Japan?
See the full setup guide before you make the next move
If you are still sorting out essentials like SIM, banking, utilities, or insurance, use the checklist page to keep the overall order clear.
Key facts
What foreigners need to know about utilities
Electricity: deregulated, choose your provider
Since 2016, you can choose your electricity provider. Most areas default to the regional utility (e.g., TEPCO in Tokyo). Sign up online or by phone — no in-person visit needed.
Water: regional monopoly
Water is managed by your local municipality. Call or visit the waterworks bureau to start service. Some areas allow online registration.
Gas: in-person inspection required
City gas (toshi gas) requires a safety inspection when you move in. You must be present. The technician checks the stove, water heater, and connections. Book early — it can take 30–60 minutes.
Payment: auto-debit, card, or convenience store
Most utilities accept automatic bank debit (kōza furikae), credit card, or convenience store payment. Setting up auto-debit prevents missed bills and late fees.
How it works
Setting up utilities
1. Electricity
Contact TEPCO or your regional provider online. No visit needed.
2. Water
Call or visit the local waterworks bureau with your address.
3. Gas
Book a safety inspection — you must be present for 30–60 minutes.
Setting up electricity
In most cases, you can start electricity service online through the regional provider's website or by calling their English support line. You'll need your new address and move-in date.
If you switch to a different provider (like Looopでんき or CDエナジー), the process is similar. The new provider handles the switch — you don't need to contact the old one.
Setting up water
Water is managed by the local waterworks bureau. Contact them by phone or visit in person with your address and move-in date. Some municipalities have online registration.
Water bills are typically billed every two months. Payment can be done via bank auto-debit, credit card, or convenience store slip.
Setting up gas
Gas setup requires an in-person safety inspection. Call your gas provider to schedule the visit before your move-in date. You must be present during the 30–60 minute inspection.
The technician will check all gas appliances, connections, and ventilation. If you use propane (LP gas) in rural areas, the setup is handled by the local propane dealer.
Related guides
How to Set Up Electricity, Gas, and Water in Japan
Electricity, gas, and water each have their own signup process in Japan. This guide explains the differences, walks you through each step, and highlights what foreigners often get wrong.
New to Japan
Use this when you want the overall order of the setup steps.
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Other life setup topics
Utilities setup happens right after moving into your apartment.
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Healthcare / Insurance
Understand how health insurance works in Japan — the two systems, enrollment, the 30% co-pay, the high-cost medical care benefit, and how to visit a doctor as a foreigner.
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FAQ
Utilities FAQ for foreigners
Common questions about setting up electricity, water, and gas in Japan.
How do I set up electricity when I move to Japan?
Contact the regional electricity provider online or by phone with your new address and move-in date. In Tokyo, that's TEPCO. No in-person visit is needed.
Is the gas safety inspection mandatory?
Yes. City gas requires an in-person safety inspection when you move in. You must be present during the 30–60 minute visit.
Can I pay utility bills at a convenience store?
Yes. Most utility companies send a payment slip (furikomi-yōshi) that you can pay at any convenience store. You can also set up auto-debit or credit card payment.
How often do I get billed for water?
Water is typically billed every two months. The billing cycle varies by municipality.
Can I choose my electricity provider?
Yes. Since 2016, Japan's electricity market is deregulated. You can switch providers without changing your physical connection.
What if I don't speak Japanese for utility setup?
TEPCO and some gas companies have English support lines. For water, you may need a Japanese-speaking friend to help call the local waterworks bureau.