How to Set Up Electricity, Gas & Water in Japan (For Foreigners)
- When you move into a new home in Japan, you need to set up electricity, gas, and water yourself.
- Explains the setup steps and contacts for each utility, plus the schedule to follow before and after moving.
- Electricity and gas providers can be chosen thanks to market liberalization.
- Also summarizes the cancellation procedures for when you move out or leave Japan.
When you move into a new home in Japan, you need to set up electricity, gas, and water yourself.
① Electricity
- Check the breaker box in your apartment
- Apply online or by phone with your regional power company
- Usually activated same or next day (no visit required)
② Gas
- Contact your regional gas company
- Schedule an appointment (you must be present)
- Technician visits to open the valve and conduct safety check
③ Water
Contact your local water utility. In many cases, it's already running — just turn on the tap. A usage start notification may still be required.
④ Contact Information
- Electricity: Your regional power company (TEPCO, Kansai Electric, Chubu Electric, etc.)
- Gas: Your regional gas company (Tokyo Gas, Osaka Gas, etc.) or local city gas provider
- Water: Your city or municipality water department (suidokyoku)
When Should You Contact Them? (Move-in Schedule)
It is advisable to contact each utility 1–2 weeks before your move-in date. Gas is especially important — an appointment with a technician present is required to open the gas valve, so book early.
You Can Choose Your Electricity & Gas Provider (Deregulation)
Japan deregulated retail electricity in 2016 and city gas in 2017, so you can choose your provider and plan. However, properties using propane (LPG) gas cannot switch providers, and all-electric properties may not need a gas contract at all. If you would like to lower your utility bills, see our guide to switching electricity & gas providers.
Cancellation When Moving Out or Returning Home
When you leave your home or return to your country, you need to contact each utility to cancel your contract. Charges are generally prorated based on actual usage. See also: Moving Out Checklist.
Estimated Monthly Utility Costs
Costs vary greatly by region, season, and usage. The figures below are rough estimates for a single-person household — actual costs will differ.
| Utility | Estimated monthly cost (single person) |
|---|---|
| Electricity | approx. ¥3,000–6,000 |
| City gas | approx. ¥3,000–5,000 |
| Water | approx. ¥2,000–3,000 (often billed every 2 months) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. When should I contact the utilities?
Aim to contact each utility 1–2 weeks before your move-in date. Gas in particular requires scheduling a visit, so contact them as early as possible.
Q. Do I need to be present when gas is turned on?
Yes — for both city gas and propane gas, a technician visit with you present is generally required for safety reasons. Please schedule an appointment in advance.
Q. Can I choose my own electricity or gas company?
Electricity and city gas are deregulated, so you can choose your provider and plan. However, properties using propane gas may not have the option to switch providers.
Q. What do I need to do when moving out?
You need to contact each utility to cancel your contract. Charges are generally calculated on a prorated daily basis based on actual usage.
Garbage rules differ by municipality — check your area's garbage sorting rules when you move in. For power outages and other emergencies, our disaster preparedness guide is also helpful.
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