Nagoya

1. Electricity in Nagoya

Provider

• The main electricity provider in Nagoya is Chubu Electric Power (Chubu Denryoku). However, since the deregulation of the electricity market in Japan, you can also choose from other providers offering competitive rates.

Application Process

1. Contact the Provider: You can apply online, by phone, or in person at a service center. Chubu Electric Power has an English website and customer support.
2. Required Information:
   • Address of your residence.
   • Move-in date.
   • Your name and contact details.
   • Bank account or credit card information for billing.
3. Activation: Electricity is usually activated remotely. If the power is off when you move in, you may need to flip the breaker switch.

Costs

• Basic Fee: Around ¥1,000–¥2,000 per month, depending on the size of your home and the plan.
• Usage Fee: Approximately ¥20–¥30 per kWh.
• Monthly Bill: Expect to pay ¥5,000–¥10,000 for a single person, depending on usage.

Payment Options

• Automatic bank transfer.
• Credit card.
• Convenience store payment.

Language Support

• Chubu Electric Power offers English support via their website and customer service hotline.

Cultural Considerations

• Energy conservation is a priority in Japan. Many households use energy-efficient appliances and turn off lights and devices when not in use.

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2. Gas in Nagoya

Provider

• Gas in Nagoya is primarily supplied by Toho Gas. Other providers may also be available depending on your area.

Application Process

1. Contact the Provider: Apply online, by phone, or in person. Toho Gas has limited English support, so you may need assistance from a Japanese speaker.
2. Required Information:
   • Address of your residence.
   • Move-in date.
   • Your name and contact details.
   • Bank account or credit card information for billing.
3. Activation: A technician will visit your home to turn on the gas and check for safety. You must be present during this appointment.

Costs

• Basic Fee: Around ¥1,000–¥2,000 per month.
• Usage Fee: Approximately ¥150–¥200 per cubic meter.
• Monthly Bill: Expect to pay ¥3,000–¥6,000 for a single person, depending on usage.

Payment Options

• Automatic bank transfer.
• Credit card.
• Convenience store payment.

Language Support

• Toho Gas has limited English support. Consider asking a friend or using a translation app if needed.

Cultural Considerations

• Gas is commonly used for cooking and heating water. Many homes in Japan use gas-powered water heaters, which you may need to learn how to operate.

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3. Water in Nagoya

Provider

• Water services in Nagoya are managed by the Nagoya City Waterworks and Sewerage Bureau.

Application Process

1. Contact the Bureau: Apply online, by phone, or in person. The website has limited English support, so assistance from a Japanese speaker may be helpful.
2. Required Information:
   • Address of your residence.
   • Move-in date.
   • Your name and contact details.
   • Bank account or credit card information for billing.
3. Activation: Water is usually active when you move in. If not, contact the bureau to arrange activation.

Costs

• Basic Fee: Around ¥1,000–¥2,000 per month.
• Usage Fee: Approximately ¥200–¥300 per cubic meter.
• Monthly Bill: Expect to pay ¥2,000–¥4,000 for a single person, depending on usage.

Payment Options

• Automatic bank transfer.
• Credit card.
• Convenience store payment.

Language Support

• Limited English support is available. Use a translation app or ask for help if needed.

Cultural Considerations

• Tap water in Nagoya is safe to drink. However, many residents use water filters for taste preferences.

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4. Internet in Nagoya

Providers

• Popular internet providers in Nagoya include:
  • NTT Flets (fiber-optic).
  • SoftBank Hikari.
  • au Hikari.
  • Docomo Hikari.
  • Mobile Wi-Fi options (e.g., Pocket Wi-Fi).

Application Process

1. Choose a Provider: Compare plans based on speed, cost, and contract length. Some providers offer English support.
2. Contact the Provider: Apply online, by phone, or at a retail store.
3. Required Information:
   • Address of your residence.
   • Move-in date.
   • Your name and contact details.
   • Bank account or credit card information for billing.
4. Installation: Fiber-optic internet may require a technician to install equipment in your home. This can take 1–2 weeks.

Costs

• Setup Fee: ¥10,000–¥20,000 (may be waived during promotions).
• Monthly Fee: ¥4,000–¥6,000 for fiber-optic internet.
• Mobile Wi-Fi: ¥3,000–¥5,000 per month.

Payment Options

• Automatic bank transfer.
• Credit card.

Language Support

• Some providers, like SoftBank and NTT, offer English support. Check their websites or inquire at their stores.

Cultural Considerations

• Contracts often have a minimum term (e.g., 2 years). Early termination may incur fees.

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General Tips for Setting Up Utilities in Nagoya

1. Timing: Apply for utilities at least 1–2 weeks before your move-in date to ensure services are ready when you arrive.
2. Documents: Keep your residence card (zairyu card), passport, and bank account details handy for applications.
3. Language Barrier: While some providers offer English support, many do not. Consider asking a Japanese-speaking friend or using a translation app.
4. Payment Methods: Setting up automatic payments via a Japanese bank account is the most convenient option.
5. Customer Service: Japanese customer service is generally polite and helpful. Be patient and polite in return.
6. Energy Conservation: Japan emphasizes eco-friendly practices. Be mindful of your energy and water usage.

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Expected Timelines

• Electricity: Same day or next day (if the breaker is off).
• Gas: 1–3 days (requires a technician visit).
• Water: Same day or next day.
• Internet: 1–2 weeks (fiber-optic installation may take longer).

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By following this guide, you should be able to set up your utilities in Nagoya efficiently. If you encounter any challenges, don’t hesitate to ask for help from your landlord, real estate agent, or local community resources. Welcome to Nagoya, and enjoy your stay!