How to Set Up Utilities in Japan as a Foreigner (2025)
Moving into a new apartment in Japan means setting up utilities yourself. Your landlord doesn’t do this for you. Here’s how to get everything running quickly. Overview: What You Need to Set Up Utility When How Electricity Before move-in Online or phone Gas Before move-in In-person inspection required Water Usually already active Sometimes need to notify Internet 1–3 weeks before Online application Electricity (電気) Step 1: Find your provider Check the contract from your landlord or the flyer in your apartment — it will say which company supplies electricity (e.g., TEPCO in Tokyo, Kansai Electric in Osaka). ...