Sendai

๐Ÿ’ก

Utilities

Information about electricity, water, gas, and garbage disposal systems essential for daily living in Sendai.

Sections

1. Electricity in Sendai

Providers

  • The primary electricity provider in Sendai is Tohoku Electric Power Company (Tohoku Denryoku), which serves the Tohoku region, including Miyagi Prefecture.
  • 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.

Setup Procedures

  1. Contact the Provider: You can set up electricity service by contacting Tohoku Electric Power or an alternative provider. This can be done online, by phone, or in person at their office.
  2. Provide Information: Youโ€™ll need to provide your name, address, move-in date, and contact details. If youโ€™re renting, your landlord or real estate agent may assist with this process.
  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.

Costs

  • Basic Monthly Fee: Around ยฅ1,000โ€“ยฅ2,000, depending on the plan and provider.
  • Usage Charges: Approximately ยฅ20โ€“ยฅ30 per kWh. Monthly bills for a single person typically range from ยฅ4,000โ€“ยฅ7,000, depending on usage.
  • Payment Methods: Bills can be paid via bank transfer, credit card, or at convenience stores.

Tips

  • Energy-Saving Practices: Winters in Sendai can be cold, so electricity bills may increase due to heating. Consider using energy-efficient appliances and insulating your home.
  • Power Outages: While rare, earthquakes in the region can occasionally cause outages. Keep a flashlight and backup power source handy.

2. Water in Sendai

Provider

  • Water services in Sendai are managed by the Sendai City Waterworks Bureau (Sendai-shi Suido-kyoku).

Setup Procedures

  1. Contact the Waterworks Bureau: Notify the bureau of your move-in date by phone, online, or in person. Your landlord or real estate agent may assist with this.
  2. Provide Information: Youโ€™ll need to provide your name, address, and move-in date.
  3. Meter Reading: A technician may visit to check the water meter when you move in or out.

Costs

  • Basic Monthly Fee: Around ยฅ1,500โ€“ยฅ2,000.
  • Usage Charges: Approximately ยฅ200โ€“ยฅ300 per cubic meter. Monthly bills for a single person typically range from ยฅ2,000โ€“ยฅ4,000.
  • Payment Methods: Bills can be paid via bank transfer, credit card, or at convenience stores.

Tips

  • Water Conservation: Sendai encourages water conservation, especially during dry seasons. Be mindful of water usage when bathing or washing dishes.
  • Emergency Water Supply: In case of natural disasters, Sendai has emergency water supply points. Familiarize yourself with their locations.

3. Gas in Sendai

Providers

  • The main provider of gas in Sendai is Sendai City Gas Bureau (Sendai-shi Gas-kyoku).
  • Some areas may also have access to propane gas (LP gas), which is managed by private companies.

Setup Procedures

  1. Contact the Provider: Notify the Sendai City Gas Bureau or your propane gas company of your move-in date. This can be done online, by phone, or in person.
  2. Provide Information: Youโ€™ll need to provide your name, address, and move-in date.
  3. Gas Activation: A technician will visit your home to activate the gas supply and check for safety. You must be present during this visit.

Costs

  • Basic Monthly Fee: Around ยฅ1,000โ€“ยฅ2,000.
  • Usage Charges: Approximately ยฅ150โ€“ยฅ200 per cubic meter. Monthly bills for a single person typically range from ยฅ3,000โ€“ยฅ6,000, depending on usage.
  • Payment Methods: Bills can be paid via bank transfer, credit card, or at convenience stores.

Tips

  • Winter Heating: Gas usage may increase in winter due to heating. Consider using a kotatsu (heated table) or electric blankets to reduce costs.
  • Safety: Gas leaks are rare but can occur. Familiarize yourself with the emergency shut-off valve and contact numbers for your provider.

4. Internet Services in Sendai

Providers

  • Major internet providers in Sendai include:
    • NTT East (FLETโ€™S Hikari): Offers fiber-optic internet.
    • SoftBank Hikari: Fiber-optic internet with bundled mobile plans.
    • au Hikari: Another fiber-optic option.
    • Docomo Hikari: Fiber-optic internet with mobile discounts.
    • Local Providers: Smaller companies may offer competitive rates or localized services.
    • Pocket Wi-Fi: Portable Wi-Fi devices are available for short-term stays.

Setup Procedures

  1. Choose a Provider: Compare plans based on speed, cost, and contract length. Many providers offer English support.
  2. Apply for Service: Applications can be made online, by phone, or at retail stores. Youโ€™ll need to provide your address, contact details, and move-in date.
  3. Installation: Fiber-optic internet often requires installation, which may take 1โ€“2 weeks. A technician will visit your home for this process.

Costs

  • Monthly Fee: Around ยฅ4,000โ€“ยฅ6,000 for fiber-optic internet.
  • Installation Fee: Typically ยฅ10,000โ€“ยฅ20,000, though promotions may waive this fee.
  • Pocket Wi-Fi: Rental costs around ยฅ3,000โ€“ยฅ5,000 per month.

Tips

  • Contract Length: Many providers require a 2-year contract. Early termination fees may apply.
  • Earthquake Alerts: Some internet services offer earthquake early warning systems. Check if your provider includes this feature.

Cultural Norms and Considerations

  1. Punctuality: Utility technicians in Japan are highly punctual. Be sure to be home at the scheduled time for any setup or maintenance visits.
  2. Politeness: Japanese service providers are known for their politeness and professionalism. Itโ€™s customary to thank them for their service.
  3. Disaster Preparedness: Sendai is in a region prone to earthquakes. Keep emergency supplies, including water, flashlights, and portable chargers, readily available.

General Tips for Managing Utilities in Sendai

  • Language Support: While some providers offer English support, itโ€™s helpful to have a Japanese-speaking friend or use translation apps during setup.
  • Convenience Store Payments: If you donโ€™t have a Japanese bank account, paying utility bills at convenience stores is a simple and widely accepted option.
  • Seasonal Variations: Utility costs may fluctuate with the seasons. Be prepared for higher electricity and gas bills in winter due to heating needs.

By following these guidelines, youโ€™ll be well-prepared to set up and manage utilities in Sendai, ensuring a smooth transition to life in this beautiful city.