When moving into a new apartment in Japan, you usually need to set up electricity, gas, and water services before starting your new life.
These services are called “lifelines” in Japan because they are essential for daily living.
For foreigners and international students, utility procedures can sometimes feel difficult because they often require Japanese language support, phone calls, or online applications. This guide explains the basic process in simple English.
Things to Check Before Moving In
Before starting utility services, check your contract documents or the instructions from the management company.
Some apartments already specify which electricity or gas company you must use.
- Which electricity company should be used?
- Which gas company should be used?
- Do you need to contact the water bureau yourself?
- What is your move-in date?
- Which payment methods are available?
Important:
Electricity may work immediately after moving in, but gas requires an opening appointment with a staff member.
If you want hot water or a gas stove on your first day, make your reservation early.
1. How to Start Electricity Service
Electricity service can usually be started online or by phone. In the Kansai area, many people use Kansai Electric Power.
Electric companies in Japan generally allow customers to apply online for moving procedures and electricity start requests.
Information Needed for Electricity Setup
- New address
- Building name and room number
- Your name
- Phone number
- Email address
- Desired start date
- Payment method
In some apartments, electricity may already be physically available after turning on the breaker.
However, you must still officially apply for service with the electricity company.
2. How to Start Gas Service
To use gas in Japan, you must apply with the gas company and schedule a gas opening appointment.
A gas company staff member will visit your apartment to safely open the gas line.
Gas companies in Japan usually allow online reservations for move-in procedures and gas opening appointments.
What Happens During the Gas Opening Appointment?
- You or another adult must be present
- The gas staff member enters the apartment
- Gas appliances and safety systems are checked
- The gas line is officially opened
Common Appointment Time Slots
- 9:00 – 12:00
- 13:00 – 15:00
- 15:00 – 17:00
- 17:00 – 19:00
Exact arrival times are usually not guaranteed because staff visit multiple apartments in order.
Tip:
Until the gas opening appointment is completed, hot water and gas stoves will not work.
If you want to take a shower on your move-in day, make sure you reserve your appointment in advance.
3. How to Start Water Service
Water service is handled by the local water bureau. For example, in Osaka, customers apply through the Osaka City Waterworks Bureau.
Some water bureaus recommend applying several days before moving in because meter installation or confirmation may sometimes be required. Many cities also allow online applications.
Information Needed for Water Service
- New address
- Building name and room number
- Your name
- Phone number
- Desired start date
- Payment method
In some apartments, the water bill is included in the rent or maintenance fee. In that case, you may not need to contact the water bureau yourself. Always check your contract or ask the management company.
4. Payment Methods
Utility payment methods vary depending on the company and region. Common payment methods include:
- Bank account automatic withdrawal
- Credit card payment
- Convenience store payment
- Paper payment slips
- Smartphone payment apps
Bank Account Withdrawal
Monthly fees are automatically withdrawn from your bank account.
This is recommended for people staying in Japan long term because it reduces the risk of forgetting payments.
Credit Card Payment
Some utility companies allow monthly payments by credit card. This is convenient for people who already have a Japanese-compatible credit card.
Convenience Store Payment
A payment slip is mailed to your address. You can pay at convenience stores or banks.
This method is often useful for foreigners who do not yet have a Japanese bank account.
However, if you forget to pay, electricity, gas, or water service may eventually stop.
Move-In Checklist
- Electricity application completed
- Gas opening appointment reserved
- Water service application completed
- Payment method confirmed
- Management company instructions checked
- Available at home for gas appointment
Important Tips for Foreigners and International Students
Japanese utility applications may require:
- A Japanese phone number
- Japanese address registration
- Japanese language input
- Exact apartment name and room number
If you recently arrived in Japan and do not yet have a phone number or bank account, ask your real estate company or management company for help.
Don’t Forget Utility Cancellation When Moving Out
When leaving an apartment in Japan, you must also stop electricity, gas, and water services.
If you forget, charges may continue even after moving out.
Gas service cancellation may sometimes require another appointment depending on the property.
Final Thoughts
When moving into a new apartment in Japan, electricity, gas, and water setup is very important.
Gas requires an opening appointment, so it is best to reserve early once your move-in date is decided.
Electricity and gas are handled by utility companies, while water is managed by the local water bureau.
Payment methods usually include bank withdrawal, credit card payment, or convenience store payment slips.
If you are unsure about Japanese procedures, asking a foreigner-friendly real estate company for support can make the process much easier.
Need Help Moving to Japan?
At willow, we support foreigners starting a new life in Japan.
We help with apartment searches, move-in procedures, utility setup, and daily life support.
International students, workers, and people moving from overseas are welcome to contact us anytime.
Feel free to contact us on LINE for support with daily life in Japan and apartment search!
