Once you have the keys to your apartment, life in Japan starts to feel real. In most apartments, you are responsible for activating utilities yourself. The process is not difficult, but timing and order matter more than people expect.
What Utilities You Are Responsible For
Each service is handled separately and often by different companies. Your real estate agent may give you basic instructions, but setup is ultimately on you.
The main utilities you will deal with include:
- Electricity
- Gas
- Water
- Internet
Trash collection rules are also critical, even though they are not a utility in the traditional sense.
Electricity – Usually the Easiest to Activate
Electricity is typically the simplest service to start. In many apartments, power is already connected and only needs activation. There is often a breaker box with a company name and contact details inside the unit.
You can usually apply online or by phone and some providers offer English support, especially in large cities.
Common steps include:
- Choosing the electricity provider listed for your building
- Submitting your move in date and address
- Providing basic personal information
- Turning on the breaker after confirmation
Electricity can often be activated the same day.
Gas – Requires an In Person Appointment
Gas setup is more involved because it requires a safety inspection. A technician must visit your apartment to open the gas valve and check appliances.
Without gas, you will not have any hot water and will not be able to use the stove, and since this setup is depending on availability, it is recommended to set this up early.
Typical setup steps include:
- Contacting the local gas company
- Scheduling an inspection appointment
- Being present with identification
- Signing confirmation documents after inspection
Once activated, gas is available immediately.
Water – Often Already Available
Water service is often active by default, especially in apartment buildings. In many cases, you can use water as soon as you move in. However, you still need to register yourself as the user.
Registration can be done online, by mail, or through the city office.
The usual process includes:
- Confirming water availability in the apartment
- Registering your name and move in date
- Receiving billing information later
If water is not active, your agent or building manager can tell you who to contact.
Internet – Plan Ahead for Delays
Internet setup in Japan is usually manageable if you go with a major provider like Docomo, but it still takes some coordination. Even in buildings that support Docomo services, activation is not always instant, and timelines vary based on the connection type you choose.
Wireless home internet is the most popular and fastest option to get running. In many cases, the router is shipped directly to your address, and you can activate the connection yourself once it arrives. This makes it a common choice for people who want minimal setup and fewer delays.
Fiber optic internet is also widely available through Docomo, especially in newer or larger apartment buildings. However, fiber installations can take several weeks and may require approval from the building owner or management company before work can begin.
If internet access is essential for work or daily use, start the process as soon as your address is confirmed.
Setting up Docomo internet typically involves:
- Checking whether your building supports Docomo services
- Choosing between wireless home internet or fiber optic plans
- Submitting identification such as your residence card and address
- Ordering equipment or scheduling an installation if required
Many residents rely on pocket Wi Fi or mobile routers while waiting for their main connection to be fully activated.
Trash Rules – Easy to Miss but Very Important
Trash in Japan is strictly regulated, since each city has specific days and sorting rules. Ignoring these can cause complaints from neighbors or management.
Your city or ward provides a trash guide, often with illustrations. Attach it to your door, or refrigerator to always have it accessible and make sure to follow it closely.
Trash handling usually involves
- Sorting burnable, non burnable, and recyclables
- Using approved trash bags
- Putting trash out only on designated days
This is one of the fastest ways to stand out if done incorrectly.
Payment Methods and Billing
Utilities are billed separately and can be paid in several ways. Convenience store payment slips are common and automatic bank withdrawals become available once you have a Japanese bank account.
Early on, paper bills are normal. Do not ignore them, even if the format is unfamiliar.
Common payment options include:
- Convenience store payment
- Bank account withdrawal
- Credit card with some providers
Utility Setup
With utilities in place, your apartment is no longer just a space, it is officially home. But before daily life can run smoothly, there is one mandatory step that ties everything together. An essential visit to your local city hall.
What Comes Next?
This visit is where your address, visa status, and legal presence in Japan are formally connected. Resident registration, national health insurance, pension enrolment, and other foundational records all happen here. The next article in the roadmap walks through what to bring, what to expect at city hall, and how to avoid common mistakes during this first and very important visit.
