Fukuoka

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Utilities

Basic information about electricity, water, gas, and internet services in Fukuoka.

Sections

1. Types of Utilities in Fukuoka

The main utilities in Fukuoka include:

  • Electricity
  • Gas
  • Water and Sewage
  • Internet and Mobile Services
  • Trash Collection and Recycling

2. Electricity

Benefits:

  • Reliable and uninterrupted service.
  • Advanced smart meters for accurate billing.
  • Energy-efficient options available (e.g., renewable energy plans).

Providers:

  • The primary electricity provider in Fukuoka is Kyushu Electric Power (Kyuden), but deregulation allows you to choose from other providers like Looop, Tokyo Gas, or ENEOS Denki.

Costs:

  • Average monthly cost: Β₯5,000–Β₯10,000 for a single person, depending on usage.
  • Rates are typically calculated per kilowatt-hour (kWh) and vary by provider and plan.

Setup Procedure:

  1. Contact the Provider: You can set up electricity service online, by phone, or through your real estate agent when moving in.
  2. Provide Details: You’ll need your address, move-in date, and personal information.
  3. Smart Meter Activation: Most homes already have a smart meter, so service activation is quick.
  4. Billing Options: Choose between automatic bank withdrawal, credit card payment, or convenience store payment.

Local Practices:

  • Electricity is billed monthly, and you’ll receive a detailed breakdown of your usage.
  • Be mindful of peak usage times (summer and winter) when rates may increase slightly.

3. Gas

Benefits:

  • Essential for cooking, heating water, and space heating.
  • Reliable service with safety measures in place.

Providers:

  • The main provider in Fukuoka is Saibu Gas, but other smaller providers may be available depending on your area.

Costs:

  • Average monthly cost: Β₯3,000–Β₯6,000 for a single person.
  • Rates depend on usage and the type of gas (city gas is cheaper than propane gas).

Setup Procedure:

  1. Contact the Provider: Notify the gas company at least a few days before moving in.
  2. Appointment for Activation: A technician will visit your home to activate the gas supply and check appliances for safety.
  3. Billing Options: Similar to electricity, you can pay via bank transfer, credit card, or at convenience stores.

Local Practices:

  • Gas is often used for water heaters, so ensure you understand how to operate the system.
  • In case of an earthquake, gas supply may automatically shut off for safety.

4. Water and Sewage

Benefits:

  • Clean and safe drinking water directly from the tap.
  • Reliable sewage and drainage systems.

Provider:

  • Water and sewage services are managed by the Fukuoka City Waterworks Bureau.

Costs:

  • Average monthly cost: Β₯2,000–Β₯4,000 for a single person.
  • Water bills include sewage charges.

Setup Procedure:

  1. Contact the Waterworks Bureau: You can apply online, by phone, or through your landlord/real estate agent.
  2. Provide Details: Include your address, move-in date, and personal information.
  3. Billing Options: Payments can be made via bank transfer, credit card, or at convenience stores.

Local Practices:

  • Water bills are issued every two months.
  • Fukuoka is known for its water conservation efforts, so try to use water efficiently.

5. Internet and Mobile Services

Benefits:

  • High-speed internet (fiber-optic) is widely available.
  • Competitive mobile plans with excellent coverage.

Providers:

  • Internet: NTT Flets, SoftBank Hikari, au Hikari, and others.
  • Mobile: NTT Docomo, SoftBank, au, Rakuten Mobile, and MVNOs (e.g., Y!Mobile, UQ Mobile).

Costs:

  • Internet: Β₯4,000–Β₯6,000 per month for fiber-optic plans.
  • Mobile: Β₯2,000–Β₯8,000 per month, depending on the plan and provider.

Setup Procedure:

  1. Internet:
    • Choose a provider and plan.
    • Schedule installation (may take 1–2 weeks).
    • Some apartments already have internet included, so check with your landlord.
  2. Mobile:
    • Visit a provider’s store with your residence card, passport, and bank details.
    • Choose a plan and sign a contract.

Local Practices:

  • Free Wi-Fi is available in many public areas, but having your own connection is more reliable.
  • Mobile contracts often require a 2-year commitment, so check cancellation fees.

6. Trash Collection and Recycling

Benefits:

  • Organized and environmentally friendly waste management system.
  • Clear guidelines for sorting and disposal.

System Overview:

  • Trash is separated into burnable waste, non-burnable waste, recyclables, and oversized items.
  • Collection days vary by neighborhood.

Costs:

  • Trash collection fees are included in your municipal taxes.

Setup Procedure:

  • Obtain a trash disposal guide and designated bags from your local ward office or convenience store.
  • Follow the schedule and sorting rules strictly.

Local Practices:

  • Use only the official Fukuoka City trash bags (available at convenience stores and supermarkets).
  • Improper sorting or disposal can result in fines or uncollected trash.

7. General Tips for Setting Up Utilities in Fukuoka

  • Language Barrier: Many utility providers have English-speaking support or online forms in English. Alternatively, ask your real estate agent or a Japanese-speaking friend for assistance.
  • Payment Methods: Automatic bank withdrawals are the most convenient option, but you can also pay at convenience stores (e.g., Lawson, FamilyMart).
  • Energy-Saving Tips: Use energy-efficient appliances and turn off lights and heaters when not in use to save on electricity and gas costs.
  • Emergency Numbers: Keep emergency contact numbers for your utility providers handy in case of outages or issues.

By understanding the utilities system in Fukuoka, you can enjoy a comfortable and hassle-free experience in this beautiful city. If you need further assistance, feel free to ask!