Yokohama

1. Electricity (電気 - Denki)

Providers

• The primary electricity provider in Yokohama is TEPCO (Tokyo Electric Power Company).
• Other providers have entered the market since the deregulation of electricity in 2016, such as Looop Denki, ENEOS Denki, and SoftBank Denki. These may offer competitive rates or renewable energy options.

Average Costs

• Monthly cost: ¥5,000–¥10,000 for a single person, depending on usage and season.
  • Summer and winter months may see higher bills due to air conditioning and heating.
• Rate structure: Electricity is billed based on a tiered system, meaning the more you use, the higher the rate per kWh.

How to Set Up Electricity

1. Contact the provider: You can set up electricity service online or by phone. TEPCO has an English website and customer service.
2. Provide details: You’ll need your address, move-in date, and personal information (passport or residence card).
3. Meter activation: In most cases, electricity is already active when you move in. If not, the provider will send a technician to activate it.

Payment Methods

• Automatic bank withdrawal (口座振替 - Kouza Furikae): The most common and convenient method.
• Credit card: Many providers accept credit card payments.
• Convenience stores: You can pay bills at convenience stores like 7-Eleven, Lawson, or FamilyMart.

Cultural Considerations

• Energy conservation is emphasized in Japan. Many households use energy-efficient appliances and turn off lights when not in use.
• Power outages are rare but may occur during natural disasters. Keep a flashlight and batteries handy.

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2. Water (水道 - Suidou)

Provider

• Water services in Yokohama are managed by the Yokohama Waterworks Bureau (横浜市水道局 - Yokohama-shi Suidoukyoku).

Average Costs

• Monthly cost: ¥2,000–¥3,000 for a single person.
  • Water bills are typically issued every two months.
• Charges are based on usage, with a basic fee and a per-cubic-meter rate.

How to Set Up Water Service

1. Contact the Yokohama Waterworks Bureau:
   • You can apply online, by phone, or in person at their office.
   • English support is available on their website.
2. Provide details: You’ll need your address, move-in date, and personal information.
3. Meter reading: A technician may visit to check the water meter.

Payment Methods

• Automatic bank withdrawal: Recommended for convenience.
• Credit card: Available for online payments.
• Convenience stores: Bills can be paid at convenience stores.

Cultural Considerations

• Tap water in Yokohama is safe to drink and of high quality.
• Water conservation is encouraged, so you may notice smaller water tanks in toilets and efficient water-saving appliances.

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3. Gas (ガス - Gasu)

Providers

• The main provider in Yokohama is Tokyo Gas (東京ガス).
• Some areas may have propane gas (プロパンガス - Puropan Gasu) instead of city gas, which is typically more expensive.

Average Costs

• Monthly cost: ¥3,000–¥6,000 for a single person.
  • Costs vary depending on usage, especially in winter when gas heaters and hot water usage increase.

How to Set Up Gas Service

1. Contact Tokyo Gas:
   • You can apply online or by phone. English support is available.
2. Provide details: You’ll need your address, move-in date, and personal information.
3. Gas activation: A technician will visit your home to activate the gas and check for safety. You must be present during this visit.

Payment Methods

• Automatic bank withdrawal: Common and convenient.
• Credit card: Accepted by most providers.
• Convenience stores: Bills can be paid at convenience stores.

Cultural Considerations

• Gas appliances, such as stoves and water heaters, are common in Japanese homes. Ensure you understand how to operate them safely.
• Gas safety is taken seriously, and you may receive a safety manual or instructions during the setup process.

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4. Internet (インターネット - Intānetto)

Providers

• Major internet providers in Yokohama include:
  • NTT East (FLET’S Hikari): Offers fiber-optic internet.
  • au Hikari: Another popular fiber-optic provider.
  • SoftBank Hikari: Bundles internet with mobile phone plans.
  • Asahi Net: Known for affordable and reliable service.
  • GMO Internet: Offers competitive pricing.
• Mobile Wi-Fi (pocket Wi-Fi) is also an option for short-term stays.

Average Costs

• Monthly cost: ¥4,000–¥6,000 for a standard fiber-optic plan.
  • Installation fees: ¥15,000–¥30,000 (often waived during promotions).
  • Contract length: Typically 2 years, with penalties for early termination.

How to Set Up Internet

1. Choose a provider: Compare plans based on speed, cost, and contract terms.
2. Apply online or in-store: Some providers have English support.
3. Installation: A technician may need to visit your home to install the necessary equipment. This can take 1–2 weeks after application.
4. Router setup: You may need to purchase or rent a router.

Payment Methods

• Automatic bank withdrawal: Common and convenient.
• Credit card: Widely accepted.
• Mobile payment apps: Some providers accept apps like PayPay or Line Pay.

Cultural Considerations

• Internet speeds in Japan are among the fastest in the world, especially with fiber-optic connections.
• Be aware of contract terms, as early termination fees can be high.

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General Tips for Utilities in Yokohama

1. Language Barrier: While some providers offer English support, most communication will be in Japanese. Consider using translation apps or asking a Japanese-speaking friend for help.
2. Moving In/Out: Notify all utility providers at least a week before moving in or out to ensure smooth service transitions.
3. Energy Efficiency: Japanese homes often prioritize energy efficiency. Consider using appliances with energy-saving features to reduce costs.
4. Emergency Numbers:
   • Electricity: TEPCO (0120-995-007)
   • Gas: Tokyo Gas (0570-002211) or the local propane gas provider.
   • Water: Yokohama Waterworks Bureau (045-847-6262).

By understanding these details, you’ll be well-prepared to manage utilities in Yokohama efficiently and adapt to local practices. Let me know if you need further assistance!