Sapporo

1. Electricity

Providers:

• The primary electricity provider in Sapporo is Hokkaido Electric Power Company (HEPCO) (北海道電力, Hokkaido Denryoku).
• Since the deregulation of the electricity market in Japan, alternative providers (known as "new power companies") are also available, such as Looop Denki, ENEOS Denki, and Tokyo Gas Denki. These may offer competitive rates or renewable energy options.

Setting Up:

• To set up electricity, you can contact HEPCO or your chosen provider online, by phone, or through their customer service centers.
• You will need to provide your address, move-in date, and personal details (passport or residence card for identification).
• Most apartments in Sapporo already have electricity connected, so you may only need to register your account.

Voltage and Plugs:

• Japan uses 100V with Type A or Type B plugs. Ensure your appliances are compatible or use a voltage converter.

Average Costs:

• Monthly electricity bills for a single person: ¥5,000–¥8,000.
• Costs increase during winter due to heating needs, as many homes in Sapporo rely on electric heaters.

Local Considerations:

• Sapporo experiences harsh winters, so electricity usage for heating can be significant. Consider energy-efficient appliances and insulation to reduce costs.

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2. Water

Provider:

• Water services in Sapporo are managed by the Sapporo Waterworks Bureau (札幌市水道局, Sapporo-shi Suidōkyoku).

Setting Up:

• Contact the Sapporo Waterworks Bureau to set up your water service. You can do this online, by phone, or in person.
• Provide your address, move-in date, and personal details.
• Water is typically already connected in apartments, so you may only need to register your account.

Average Costs:

• Monthly water bills for a single person: ¥2,000–¥3,000.
• Bills are issued every two months.

Local Considerations:

• Tap water in Sapporo is safe to drink and of high quality.
• Be mindful of water usage during winter, as pipes can freeze. Many homes have pipe-heating systems to prevent this.

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3. Gas

Providers:

• The main gas provider in Sapporo is Hokkaido Gas (Hokuden Gas) (北海道ガス, Hokkaido Gasu).
• Some areas may also have propane gas services, which are managed by private companies.

Setting Up:

• Contact Hokkaido Gas or your propane gas provider to set up service. You will need to schedule an appointment for a technician to activate the gas supply.
• Provide your address, move-in date, and personal details.

Average Costs:

• Monthly gas bills for a single person: ¥3,000–¥6,000.
• Costs increase during winter due to heating and hot water usage.

Local Considerations:

• Many homes in Sapporo use gas for heating, cooking, and hot water. Ensure your gas appliances are in good working condition.
• If you use propane gas, note that it is generally more expensive than city gas.

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4. Internet

Providers:

• Major internet providers in Sapporo include:
  • NTT East (FLET’S Hikari): Offers fiber-optic internet.
  • SoftBank Hikari: Fiber-optic internet with bundled mobile plans.
  • au Hikari: Another popular fiber-optic provider.
  • Hikari Collaboration ISPs: Smaller providers that use NTT’s infrastructure, such as Asahi Net or Biglobe.
  • Mobile Wi-Fi (Pocket Wi-Fi): Portable internet devices from companies like SoftBank, WiMAX, or Rakuten.

Setting Up:

• Fiber-optic internet requires installation, which can take 1–2 weeks. Contact the provider to schedule installation.
• You will need your address, move-in date, and residence card or passport for identification.
• Mobile Wi-Fi is a faster option if you need immediate internet access.

Average Costs:

• Fiber-optic internet: ¥4,000–¥6,000 per month.
• Mobile Wi-Fi: ¥3,000–¥5,000 per month.

Local Considerations:

• Internet speeds in Japan are generally very fast and reliable.
• Some rental apartments may include internet in the rent, so check with your landlord.

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5. Waste Management

System:

• Sapporo has a strict and organized waste management system. Garbage is separated into categories:
  • Burnable waste (燃やせるごみ, Moyaseru Gomi): Food scraps, paper, etc.
  • Non-burnable waste (燃やせないごみ, Moyasenai Gomi): Glass, ceramics, metal items.
  • Recyclables (資源ごみ, Shigen Gomi): Plastic bottles, cans, glass bottles, newspapers, etc.
  • Large items (粗大ごみ, Sodai Gomi): Furniture, appliances, etc.

Collection:

• Garbage is collected on specific days, which vary by neighborhood. Check the Sapporo City Garbage Collection Calendar for your area.
• Burnable waste is usually collected twice a week, while non-burnable waste and recyclables are collected less frequently.
• Large items require a special pickup request and fee.

Costs:

• Garbage bags must be purchased from convenience stores or supermarkets. Prices vary depending on size:
  • Small: ¥5–¥10 per bag.
  • Large: ¥20–¥40 per bag.

Local Considerations:

• Sorting garbage correctly is mandatory, and improper disposal can result in fines or complaints from neighbors.
• Learn the Japanese terms for waste categories to avoid confusion.

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Additional Tips for New Residents

1. Language Barrier: Many utility providers have English-speaking support or online forms in English. If not, consider using a translation app or asking a Japanese-speaking friend for help.
2. Payment Methods:
   • Utility bills can be paid at convenience stores, via bank transfer, or through automatic withdrawal from your bank account.
   • Some providers also accept credit card payments.
3. Winter Preparation:
   • Sapporo’s winters are severe, so ensure your home is well-insulated and equipped with efficient heating systems.
   • Keep an emergency kit with flashlights and batteries in case of power outages during heavy snowstorms.

By understanding these utilities and local practices, you’ll be well-prepared to settle into life in Sapporo. Let me know if you need further assistance!