Nagoya

1. Electricity in Nagoya

Main Electricity Provider

• Chubu Electric Power (Chubu Denryoku) is the primary electricity provider in Nagoya and the surrounding Chubu region.

Setting Up Electricity Service

• When to Set Up: Ideally, arrange for electricity service a few days before moving into your new residence.
• How to Apply:
  • Online: Visit Chubu Electric Power’s website (available in English and Japanese) to set up your account.
  • Phone: Call their customer service line (English support is available).
  • In-Person: Visit a local Chubu Electric Power office.
  • You’ll need your address, move-in date, and personal details (passport or residence card may be required).
• Smart Meters: Most homes in Nagoya are equipped with smart meters, so you don’t need to be present for activation.

Electricity Costs

• Billing System: Electricity is billed monthly based on usage (measured in kilowatt-hours, kWh).
• Rates:
  • Basic charge: Around ¥1,000–¥2,000 per month, depending on the size of your home.
  • Usage charge: Approximately ¥20–¥30 per kWh, with higher rates for peak usage.
• Average Monthly Cost: For a single person, expect to pay around ¥5,000–¥7,000 per month. Families may pay ¥10,000–¥15,000 or more.

Payment Methods

• Bank Transfer: Set up automatic payments through your Japanese bank account.
• Convenience Stores: Pay your bill at convenience stores like 7-Eleven, Lawson, or FamilyMart.
• Credit Card: Some providers allow credit card payments.
• Online: Use the provider’s website or app for online payments.

Tips

• Energy-Saving Practices: Electricity in Japan can be expensive, so consider using energy-efficient appliances and turning off lights and air conditioning when not in use.
• Time-of-Use Plans: Some plans offer lower rates during off-peak hours (e.g., late at night). Check with Chubu Electric Power for details.

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2. Gas in Nagoya

Main Gas Provider

• Toho Gas is the primary provider of city gas in Nagoya.

Setting Up Gas Service

• When to Set Up: Contact Toho Gas at least 3–5 days before moving in.
• How to Apply:
  • Phone: Call Toho Gas customer service (English support is limited, so consider asking a Japanese-speaking friend for help).
  • Online: Apply through their website (Japanese only).
  • In-Person: Visit a Toho Gas office.
• Activation: A technician will visit your home to turn on the gas and check for safety. You or a representative must be present during this visit.

Gas Costs

• Billing System: Gas is billed monthly based on usage (measured in cubic meters).
• Rates:
  • Basic charge: Around ¥1,000–¥2,000 per month.
  • Usage charge: Approximately ¥150–¥200 per cubic meter.
• Average Monthly Cost: For a single person, expect to pay ¥3,000–¥5,000 per month. Families may pay ¥8,000–¥12,000 or more, especially in winter when gas is used for heating.

Payment Methods

• Bank Transfer: Set up automatic payments through your Japanese bank account.
• Convenience Stores: Pay your bill at convenience stores.
• Credit Card: Some providers accept credit card payments.
• Online: Use the provider’s website or app for online payments.

Tips

• Gas Appliances: Many homes in Nagoya use gas for cooking, water heating, and sometimes heating. Ensure your appliances are compatible with city gas (都市ガス, "toshigas") rather than propane gas.
• Winter Usage: Gas bills can spike in winter due to heating, so budget accordingly.

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3. Water in Nagoya

Main Water Provider

• The Nagoya City Waterworks and Sewerage Bureau manages water services in Nagoya.

Setting Up Water Service

• When to Set Up: Contact the Waterworks Bureau at least 3–5 days before moving in.
• How to Apply:
  • Phone: Call their customer service line (Japanese only; consider asking for help if needed).
  • Online: Apply through their website (Japanese only).
  • In-Person: Visit a local Waterworks Bureau office.
• Information Needed: Provide your address, move-in date, and personal details.

Water Costs

• Billing System: Water is billed every two months based on usage (measured in cubic meters).
• Rates:
  • Basic charge: Around ¥1,000–¥2,000 every two months.
  • Usage charge: Approximately ¥200–¥300 per cubic meter.
• Average Cost: For a single person, expect to pay ¥2,000–¥3,000 every two months. Families may pay ¥5,000–¥8,000 or more.

Payment Methods

• Bank Transfer: Set up automatic payments through your Japanese bank account.
• Convenience Stores: Pay your bill at convenience stores.
• Credit Card: Some providers accept credit card payments.
• Online: Use the provider’s website for online payments.

Tips

• Water Conservation: Water in Japan is relatively affordable, but conserving water is encouraged as a cultural practice.
• Drinking Water: Tap water in Nagoya is safe to drink, but some residents prefer to use water filters or buy bottled water.

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General Tips for Utility Services in Nagoya

1. Language Barrier: While some providers offer English support, most communication will be in Japanese. Consider asking a Japanese-speaking friend or using translation apps to assist with applications and inquiries.
2. Moving Out: When leaving your residence, remember to cancel your utility services. Contact each provider at least a week in advance to arrange for final meter readings and payments.
3. Combining Services: Some companies offer discounts if you bundle electricity and gas services. Check with Chubu Electric Power and Toho Gas for such options.
4. Emergency Numbers:
   • Electricity: Chubu Electric Power (0120-985-232)
   • Gas: Toho Gas (052-872-9230 for emergencies)
   • Water: Nagoya City Waterworks Bureau (052-972-3621 for emergencies)
5. Seasonal Costs: Utility bills can vary significantly by season. Summer (air conditioning) and winter (heating) tend to be more expensive.

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By following this guide, you should be able to set up and manage your utility services in Nagoya with ease. If you need further assistance, feel free to ask!