Hiroshima

๐Ÿ’ก

Utilities Payment

Sections

1. Overview of Utilities in Hiroshima

Utilities in Hiroshima typically include:

  • Electricity (้›ปๆฐ— - Denki)
  • Gas (ใ‚ฌใ‚น - Gasu)
  • Water and Sewage (ๆฐด้“ - Suidล)
  • Internet and Phone Services (ใ‚คใƒณใ‚ฟใƒผใƒใƒƒใƒˆใจ้›ป่ฉฑ - Intฤnetto to Denwa)

These services are essential for daily life, and understanding how to manage them will make your stay or residency in Hiroshima much smoother.


2. Typical Costs of Utilities in Hiroshima

The cost of utilities in Hiroshima can vary depending on the size of your household, your consumption habits, and the season (e.g., higher electricity bills in summer due to air conditioning). Below are average monthly costs for a single person or small household:

  • Electricity: ยฅ5,000โ€“ยฅ10,000
    • Higher in summer (air conditioning) and winter (heating).
  • Gas: ยฅ3,000โ€“ยฅ6,000
    • Used for cooking, water heating, and sometimes heating.
  • Water and Sewage: ยฅ2,000โ€“ยฅ4,000
    • Billed every two months in most cases.
  • Internet: ยฅ4,000โ€“ยฅ6,000
    • Depending on the provider and speed.
  • Mobile Phone: ยฅ3,000โ€“ยฅ8,000
    • Depending on the plan and data usage.

For a family or larger household, these costs can increase proportionally.


3. Payment Procedures for Utilities

Utilities in Hiroshima can be paid through several convenient methods. Hereโ€™s how each utility is typically managed:

Electricity

  • Provider: The main electricity provider in Hiroshima is Chugoku Electric Power Company (ไธญๅ›ฝ้›ปๅŠ› - Chลซgoku Denryoku).
  • Billing: Bills are sent monthly, either as a paper bill or electronically if you opt for online billing.
  • Payment Methods:
    1. Automatic Bank Transfer (ๅฃๅบงๆŒฏๆ›ฟ - Kลza Furikae): The most convenient method. You can set this up by filling out a form with your bank and utility provider.
    2. Convenience Stores (ใ‚ณใƒณใƒ“ใƒ‹ - Konbini): Pay your bill at any convenience store (e.g., 7-Eleven, Lawson, FamilyMart) by presenting the bill and paying in cash or by card.
    3. Online Payment: Many providers allow payment via credit card or through their website.
    4. At the Providerโ€™s Office: You can pay directly at the utility companyโ€™s office.

Gas

  • Provider: Hiroshima Gas (ๅบƒๅณถใ‚ฌใ‚น - Hiroshima Gasu) is the main supplier.
  • Billing: Similar to electricity, bills are issued monthly.
  • Payment Methods:
    • Automatic bank transfer.
    • Payment at convenience stores.
    • Online payment via the providerโ€™s website.

Water and Sewage

  • Provider: Managed by the Hiroshima City Waterworks Bureau (ๅบƒๅณถๅธ‚ๆฐด้“ๅฑ€ - Hiroshima-shi Suidลkyoku).
  • Billing: Billed every two months.
  • Payment Methods:
    • Automatic bank transfer.
    • Payment at convenience stores.
    • Payment at the city office or waterworks bureau.

Internet and Phone

  • Providers: Popular providers include NTT, SoftBank, au, and Rakuten.
  • Billing: Monthly bills are sent electronically or by mail.
  • Payment Methods:
    • Automatic bank transfer.
    • Credit card payment.
    • Payment at convenience stores (for some providers).

4. Recommendations for Payment Methods

To simplify your life and avoid missing payments, consider the following recommendations:

  • Set Up Automatic Bank Transfers: This is the most reliable and hassle-free method. Youโ€™ll need your bank account details and may need assistance from your bank or utility provider to set it up.
  • Use Online Payment Portals: Many utility companies now offer user-friendly websites or apps where you can view bills and make payments.
  • Keep Track of Due Dates: If you prefer manual payments, ensure you pay on time to avoid late fees. Bills typically have a due date printed on them.
  • Use Convenience Stores for Flexibility: If you donโ€™t have a Japanese bank account or prefer paying in cash, convenience stores are a great option.

5. Cultural Considerations and Tips

Understanding local customs and practices can make managing utilities in Hiroshima smoother:

  • Punctuality: Japanese culture values punctuality, so paying your bills on time is important. Late payments may result in service interruptions or additional fees.
  • Energy Conservation: Japan places a strong emphasis on energy conservation. Youโ€™ll notice reminders to save electricity and water, especially during peak seasons. Adopting these habits can also help reduce your bills.
  • Meter Reading: Utility companies may send personnel to read your electricity, gas, or water meters. They usually leave a notice if youโ€™re not home, and the reading will be reflected in your next bill.
  • Language Barrier: Most utility bills are in Japanese. If youโ€™re not fluent, consider using a translation app or asking a Japanese-speaking friend for help. Some providers also offer English support.
  • Deposit for New Contracts: When setting up utilities for the first time, you may be required to pay a deposit, especially if youโ€™re a foreign resident without a credit history in Japan.

6. Tips for Visitors

If youโ€™re staying in Hiroshima short-term (e.g., in a rental or Airbnb):

  • Utilities May Be Included: Many short-term accommodations include utilities in the rental price. Confirm this with your host or landlord.
  • Prepaid Utilities: Some accommodations use prepaid systems for electricity or gas. Check with your host on how to recharge these if needed.

7. Tips for New Residents

If youโ€™re moving to Hiroshima:

  • Set Up Utilities Early: Contact utility providers as soon as you move in to avoid delays in service.
  • Understand Your Lease: Some rental agreements include utilities, while others require you to set them up yourself. Clarify this with your landlord or real estate agent.
  • Budget for Initial Costs: Be prepared for initial setup fees or deposits when starting new utility contracts.

8. Emergency Contacts

In case of utility-related emergencies:

  • Electricity: Chugoku Electric Power Company (Customer Service) - 0120-611-688
  • Gas: Hiroshima Gas Emergency Line - 082-251-2151
  • Water: Hiroshima City Waterworks Bureau - 082-511-6800

By following this guide, youโ€™ll be well-prepared to manage utilities in Hiroshima efficiently and in line with local practices. If you have further questions or need assistance, donโ€™t hesitate to reach out to your utility provider or local city office.