Nagoya

1. Electricity (Denki - 電気)

Providers

• The primary electricity provider in Nagoya is Chubu Electric Power (Chubu Denryoku - 中部電力).
• Since the deregulation of the electricity market in Japan, you can also choose from alternative providers, such as Looop Denki, ENEOS Denki, or Tokyo Gas Denki, which may offer competitive rates or renewable energy options.

Costs

• Electricity is billed based on usage (measured in kilowatt-hours, kWh).
• Average monthly costs for a single person: ¥5,000–¥7,000.
• For a family of four: ¥10,000–¥15,000.
• Rates vary depending on the time of day (peak/off-peak hours) and the provider’s pricing plan.

Setup Procedure

1. Contact the provider: If you’re renting an apartment, your landlord or real estate agent may help you set up electricity. Otherwise, contact Chubu Electric Power or your chosen provider directly.
2. Provide details: You’ll need your address, move-in date, and personal information (passport or residence card for immigrants).
3. Meter activation: In most cases, electricity is already connected, and you only need to register your account. If not, a technician may visit to activate the meter.

Payment Options

• Monthly bills can be paid via:
  • Automatic bank transfer.
  • Credit card.
  • Convenience stores (konbini).
• Some providers offer online billing and payment options.

Cultural Considerations

• Energy conservation is a cultural norm in Japan. Many households use energy-efficient appliances and turn off lights when not in use.
• Be mindful of peak electricity usage during summer (air conditioning) and winter (heating).

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2. Gas (Gasu - ガス)

Providers

• The main gas provider in Nagoya is Toho Gas (東邦ガス).
• Gas is typically used for cooking, water heating, and sometimes room heating.

Costs

• Average monthly costs for a single person: ¥3,000–¥5,000.
• For a family of four: ¥8,000–¥12,000.
• Costs depend on usage and the season (higher in winter due to water heating).

Setup Procedure

1. Contact Toho Gas: Call their customer service or visit their website to set up an account.
2. Provide details: You’ll need your address, move-in date, and personal information.
3. Technician visit: A technician will visit your home to activate the gas supply and check for safety. You must be present during this visit.

Payment Options

• Similar to electricity, you can pay via:
  • Automatic bank transfer.
  • Credit card.
  • Convenience stores.

Cultural Considerations

• Gas appliances often have safety features, such as automatic shut-off. Familiarize yourself with these features.
• Gas leaks are taken very seriously in Japan. If you smell gas, call the emergency number provided by your gas company immediately.

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3. Water (Mizu - 水道)

Provider

• Water services in Nagoya are managed by the Nagoya City Waterworks and Sewerage Bureau (名古屋市上下水道局).

Costs

• Average monthly costs for a single person: ¥2,000–¥3,000.
• For a family of four: ¥5,000–¥7,000.
• Water bills include sewerage charges.

Setup Procedure

1. Contact the Waterworks Bureau: You can call their customer service or apply online.
2. Provide details: You’ll need your address, move-in date, and personal information.
3. Meter reading: Water is usually already connected, but the bureau will start billing you based on the meter reading.

Payment Options

• Payment methods include:
  • Automatic bank transfer.
  • Credit card.
  • Convenience stores.

Cultural Considerations

• Tap water in Nagoya is safe to drink, but many residents prefer using water filters or bottled water.
• Water conservation is encouraged, so avoid wasting water unnecessarily.

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4. Internet Services (Intānetto - インターネット)

Providers

• Major internet providers in Nagoya include:
  • NTT Flets (fiber-optic).
  • KDDI au Hikari.
  • SoftBank Hikari.
  • NURO Hikari (known for high-speed internet).
• Mobile internet providers like Rakuten Mobile or Y!Mobile also offer home internet plans.

Costs

• Monthly costs for high-speed fiber-optic internet: ¥4,000–¥6,000.
• Installation fees: ¥10,000–¥20,000 (often waived during promotions).

Setup Procedure

1. Choose a provider: Compare plans based on speed, cost, and contract length.
2. Apply online or in-store: Provide your address, residence card, and bank details.
3. Installation: A technician will visit your home to install the necessary equipment. This can take 1–2 weeks after application.

Cultural Considerations

• Contracts are typically for 1–2 years. Early termination may incur a penalty fee.
• Free Wi-Fi is not as widespread in Japan as in some other countries, so having home internet is essential.

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5. Waste Disposal (Gomi - ゴミ)

System

• Nagoya has a strict and detailed waste separation and disposal system. Categories include:
  • Burnable waste (Moeru gomi - 燃えるゴミ): Kitchen waste, paper, etc.
  • Non-burnable waste (Moenai gomi - 燃えないゴミ): Glass, ceramics, etc.
  • Recyclables (Shigen gomi - 資源ゴミ): Plastic bottles, cans, paper, etc.
  • Large items (Sodai gomi - 粗大ゴミ): Furniture, appliances, etc.

Costs

• Regular waste disposal is included in municipal taxes.
• For large items, you’ll need to purchase a disposal sticker (¥200–¥2,000 depending on the item) and schedule a pickup.

Procedure

1. Obtain a waste calendar: Provided by your ward office, it details collection days and categories.
2. Sort waste properly: Use designated bags (available at convenience stores or supermarkets).
3. Follow collection rules: Place waste at the designated spot by 8:00 AM on the correct day.

Cultural Considerations

• Improper waste disposal can result in fines or complaints from neighbors.
• Recycling is taken very seriously, and many items (e.g., PET bottles) must be rinsed before disposal.

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Additional Tips for Immigrants and Visitors

1. Language Barrier: Many utility providers have English-speaking support or online resources in English. If not, your real estate agent or a Japanese-speaking friend can assist.
2. Ward Office Assistance: The Nagoya City Ward Office (区役所) can provide guidance on utilities and waste disposal.
3. Seasonal Costs: Utility bills tend to be higher in summer (air conditioning) and winter (heating). Budget accordingly.
4. Emergency Numbers:
   • Gas leak: Toho Gas Emergency Line - 052-872-9239.
   • Water issues: Nagoya Waterworks Bureau - 052-972-3621.

By understanding these systems and cultural norms, you’ll find it easier to adapt to life in Nagoya. Let me know if you need further assistance!