Kyoto

1. Electricity (電気 - Denki)

Service Providers

• The primary electricity provider in Kyoto is Kansai Electric Power Company (KEPCO) (関西電力).
• Alternative providers (due to energy market deregulation) include companies like Looop Denki, ENEOS Denki, and Tokyo Gas Denki. These may offer competitive rates or renewable energy options.

Steps to Set Up Electricity

1. Contact the Provider:
   • If you’re using KEPCO, you can apply online, by phone, or through their English support line.
   • For alternative providers, check their websites for application forms or call their customer service.
2. Provide Necessary Information:
   • Address of your new residence.
   • Move-in date.
   • Your name and contact details.
   • Bank account information for automatic payments (optional but recommended).
3. Activate the Service:
   • In most cases, electricity is already connected. You may only need to flip the breaker switch in your home.
   • If the power is off, KEPCO or the provider will send a technician to activate it (usually within 1-2 business days).

Costs

• Basic Monthly Fee: ¥1,000–¥2,000, depending on the size of your home and the plan.
• Usage Charges: ¥20–¥30 per kWh, depending on the provider and plan.
• Expect an average monthly bill of ¥5,000–¥10,000 for a single person.

Important Notes

• KEPCO offers an English website and customer support.
• Consider energy-saving appliances, as electricity costs can be high in Japan.

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2. Water (水道 - Suidō)

Service Provider

• Water services in Kyoto are managed by the Kyoto City Waterworks Bureau (京都市上下水道局).

Steps to Set Up Water

1. Contact the Waterworks Bureau:
   • Call their customer service (Japanese only) or visit their website to apply.
   • You can also ask your landlord or real estate agent to assist with the setup.
2. Provide Necessary Information:
   • Address of your new residence.
   • Move-in date.
   • Your name and contact details.
3. Service Activation:
   • Water is usually already connected. If not, the bureau will send a technician to activate it.

Costs

• Basic Monthly Fee: ¥1,000–¥2,000.
• Usage Charges: ¥200–¥300 per cubic meter.
• Average monthly bill: ¥2,000–¥4,000 for a single person.

Important Notes

• Bills are typically sent every two months.
• Payments can be made via bank transfer, convenience stores, or automatic withdrawal.

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3. Gas (ガス - Gasu)

Service Providers

• Kyoto primarily uses city gas provided by Osaka Gas (大阪ガス).
• Some rural areas may use propane gas, which is managed by private companies.

Steps to Set Up Gas

1. Contact Osaka Gas:
   • Call their customer service or apply online. They also have English support.
2. Provide Necessary Information:
   • Address of your new residence.
   • Move-in date.
   • Your name and contact details.
3. Schedule a Technician Visit:
   • A technician will visit your home to activate the gas supply and check for safety. You must be present during this visit.
   • Appointments are usually available within 1-2 business days.

Costs

• Basic Monthly Fee: ¥1,000–¥2,000.
• Usage Charges: ¥150–¥300 per cubic meter.
• Average monthly bill: ¥3,000–¥6,000 for a single person.

Important Notes

• Gas is commonly used for cooking and heating water in Japan.
• Be mindful of safety checks and ensure proper ventilation when using gas appliances.

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4. Internet (インターネット - Intānetto)

Service Providers

• Major providers in Kyoto include:
  • NTT Flets Hikari (光) – Fiber-optic internet.
  • KDDI au Hikari – Fiber-optic internet.
  • SoftBank Hikari – Fiber-optic internet.
  • Pocket Wi-Fi Providers – SoftBank, WiMAX, etc., for portable internet.

Steps to Set Up Internet

1. Choose a Provider:
   • Compare plans based on speed, cost, and contract length. Fiber-optic internet is the most common and reliable option.
2. Apply for Service:
   • Applications can be made online, by phone, or at a provider’s store.
   • Some providers offer English support, but you may need help from a Japanese-speaking friend or your real estate agent.
3. Schedule Installation:
   • Fiber-optic internet requires installation, which can take 1-2 weeks. A technician will visit your home to set it up.
   • If your building already has fiber-optic infrastructure, the process may be faster.
4. Set Up Your Router:
   • Once the installation is complete, you’ll need to configure your router. Some providers offer rental routers.

Costs

• Installation Fee: ¥15,000–¥30,000 (often waived during promotions).
• Monthly Fee: ¥4,000–¥6,000 for fiber-optic plans.
• Pocket Wi-Fi: ¥3,000–¥5,000 per month.

Important Notes

• Contracts typically last 1-2 years, with penalties for early termination.
• Some providers bundle internet with mobile phone plans for discounts.

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General Tips and Cultural Considerations

1. Language Barrier:
   • Many utility companies have limited English support. If you don’t speak Japanese, ask your landlord, real estate agent, or a Japanese-speaking friend for assistance.
2. Payment Methods:
   • Utilities can be paid via:
     • Automatic bank withdrawal.
     • Credit card (not always available).
     • Convenience stores (コンビニ払い - konbini-barai).
   • Automatic withdrawal is the most convenient option.
3. Energy Conservation:
   • Japanese homes are often less insulated than Western homes. Be mindful of energy usage, especially during winter and summer.
4. Customer Service:
   • Japanese utility companies are known for their punctuality and professionalism. However, appointments and services are strictly scheduled, so be on time.
5. Moving Out:
   • When moving out, you must contact each utility provider to terminate services and settle final bills.

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By following these steps and tips, you’ll be able to set up utilities in Kyoto efficiently and without unnecessary stress. If you encounter any difficulties, don’t hesitate to ask for help from your landlord or local community resources.