Tokyo

๐Ÿ”Œ

Utilities

An overview of managing local utility services, such as water, electricity, and gas.

Sections

1. Water Services in Tokyo

Provider:

  • The primary water supplier in Tokyo is the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Bureau of Waterworks.

Costs:

  • Basic Monthly Cost: Around ยฅ2,000โ€“ยฅ3,000 for a single person in a small apartment.
  • Billing Structure: Charges are based on usage, typically measured in cubic meters (mยณ). The average cost is around ยฅ200โ€“ยฅ300 per mยณ.
  • Billing Frequency: Every two months.

How to Set Up:

  1. Contact the Bureau of Waterworks:
    • You can apply online (in Japanese) or call their customer service (English support is available).
    • Provide your address, move-in date, and personal details.
  2. Meter Reading:
    • A technician may visit to confirm the meter reading when you move in.

Billing Process:

  • Bills are sent every two months and can be paid via:
    • Automatic bank withdrawal.
    • Convenience stores.
    • Credit card (if registered online).
    • Payment slips sent to your address.

Local Considerations:

  • Tap water in Tokyo is safe to drink and of high quality.
  • Water conservation is encouraged, so avoid excessive use.

2. Electricity Services in Tokyo

Providers:

  • The main provider is TEPCO (Tokyo Electric Power Company), but deregulation allows you to choose from other providers like Looop, ENEOS, or Tokyo Gas.

Costs:

  • Basic Monthly Cost: ยฅ4,000โ€“ยฅ8,000 for a single person, depending on usage and season (higher in summer and winter due to air conditioning and heating).
  • Billing Structure: A base fee (around ยฅ1,000) plus a per-kWh charge (ยฅ20โ€“ยฅ30/kWh, depending on the provider and plan).

How to Set Up:

  1. Contact the Provider:
    • If you choose TEPCO, you can apply online or by phone. For other providers, check their websites for application procedures.
    • Provide your address, move-in date, and personal details.
  2. Meter Activation:
    • In most cases, electricity is already active when you move in. If not, the provider will send a technician to activate it.

Billing Process:

  • Bills are sent monthly and can be paid via:
    • Automatic bank withdrawal.
    • Credit card.
    • Payment slips at convenience stores.

Local Considerations:

  • Tokyo uses a 100V/50Hz electrical system. Ensure your appliances are compatible.
  • Energy-saving practices are common, such as turning off lights and unplugging devices when not in use.

3. Gas Services in Tokyo

Providers:

  • The main provider is Tokyo Gas, but other smaller providers are available depending on your area.

Costs:

  • Basic Monthly Cost: ยฅ3,000โ€“ยฅ6,000 for a single person, depending on usage.
  • Billing Structure: A base fee (around ยฅ1,000) plus a per-cubic-meter charge (ยฅ140โ€“ยฅ160/mยณ).

How to Set Up:

  1. Contact the Provider:
    • Call Tokyo Gas or apply online. English support is available.
    • Provide your address, move-in date, and personal details.
  2. Gas Activation:
    • A technician will visit your home to activate the gas supply and check for safety. You must be present during this visit.

Billing Process:

  • Bills are sent monthly and can be paid via:
    • Automatic bank withdrawal.
    • Credit card.
    • Payment slips at convenience stores.

Local Considerations:

  • Gas is commonly used for cooking and water heating in Tokyo.
  • Be mindful of gas safety. Ensure proper ventilation when using gas appliances.

4. Internet Services in Tokyo

Providers:

  • Major providers include:
    • NTT Flets (fiber-optic).
    • SoftBank Hikari.
    • au Hikari.
    • Docomo Hikari.
    • Mobile Wi-Fi options like Pocket Wi-Fi (e.g., Sakura Mobile, Japan Wireless).

Costs:

  • Fiber-Optic Internet: ยฅ4,000โ€“ยฅ6,000 per month.
  • Pocket Wi-Fi: ยฅ3,000โ€“ยฅ5,000 per month (ideal for short-term stays).

How to Set Up:

  1. Choose a Provider:
    • Compare plans based on speed, cost, and contract length. Some providers offer English support.
  2. Apply Online or In-Store:
    • Provide your address, move-in date, and personal details.
  3. Installation:
    • Fiber-optic internet may require installation, which can take 1โ€“2 weeks. A technician will visit your home for setup.
    • Pocket Wi-Fi can be delivered to your address and used immediately.

Billing Process:

  • Bills are sent monthly and can be paid via:
    • Automatic bank withdrawal.
    • Credit card.

Local Considerations:

  • Internet contracts often require a 1โ€“2 year commitment. Early termination fees may apply.
  • Free public Wi-Fi is not as widespread in Tokyo as in some other cities, so having home internet or Pocket Wi-Fi is essential.

General Tips for Setting Up Utilities in Tokyo:

  1. Language Barrier:
    • Many utility providers have English-speaking support or online forms in English. If not, consider asking a Japanese-speaking friend or using translation apps.
  2. Moving In:
    • Notify utility providers at least a week before your move-in date to ensure services are active when you arrive.
  3. Payment Methods:
    • Automatic bank withdrawal is the most convenient option. Youโ€™ll need a Japanese bank account for this.
    • Payment slips can be used at convenience stores if you donโ€™t have a bank account yet.
  4. Energy Conservation:
    • Tokyo residents are conscious of energy use. Consider using energy-efficient appliances and turning off devices when not in use.

By following this guide, youโ€™ll be well-prepared to set up and manage your utilities in Tokyo. If you need further assistance, feel free to ask!