Whether you’re moving to Tokyo for the first time or relocating to a new apartment within the city, one of the most important tasks you’ll face is setting up your utilities. Compared to other countries, Japan’s utility setup process can be (un)surprisingly analog—and timing is key, especially when it comes to gas and internet connections.
One important consideration is that if you’re moving during peak seasons, (March~May and August~October) it can be harder to get an appointment to have these services set up as everyone else is doing it at the same time. With that in mind lets see about getting everything set up!
Gas
Main Provider: Tokyo Gas
Timing: Must be booked at least 2–5 days in advance
Price: Varies based on usage; expect around ¥3,000–¥6,000/month for a 1-bedroom
Gas in Tokyo is city gas, piped directly into your apartment for use with stovetops, hot water, and in some older buildings, heating. The most common provider is Tokyo Gas, and setting up service involves a bit more than just a phone call.
When activating gas at a new address, someone must be present in the apartment to meet the technician. The visit takes about 30 minutes and includes a safety check and demonstration of gas appliances. Make sure your gas valves and stovetop are accessible, and if you’re not fluent in Japanese, having a Japanese-speaking friend—or your agent—present can be helpful.
Tip: If you’re in a rush, Tokyo Gas also offers a “set date and time” reservation option, but these time slots can book up quickly, especially at the end of the month or during peak moving seasons (March–April).
Electricity
Main Providers:
- TEPCO (Tokyo Electric Power Company) – the default provider
- Tokyo Gas – offers bundle discounts if you use both gas and electric
Timing: Can be set up online or over the phone; no technician visit needed
Price: Around ¥4,000–¥8,000/month for a 1–2 bedroom apartment, depending on usage
Setting up electricity is a relatively simple process. You can start service online through the TEPCO website or call their English support line. In most cases, all you’ll need to do is flip the circuit breaker when you move in.
If you’re already using Tokyo Gas, consider bundling your electric service with them for a small monthly discount. Tokyo Gas also offers a convenient English-language form and responsive customer service.
Water
Main Provider: Bureau of Waterworks, Tokyo Metropolitan Government
Timing: Ideally 1 week before your move-in
Price: Billed bi-monthly; typically ¥2,000–¥4,000/month for singles and couples
Water in Tokyo is supplied by the city and is automatically available in most apartments when you move in. However, you still need to register for billing, otherwise you could be flagged for non-payment even if the water is flowing.
You can apply via the Bureau’s online English form, or call their customer service line (English-speaking support is limited but available during office hours). You’ll need your new address and move-in date.
Some newer buildings will arrange this service automatically on your behalf, especially if they cater to expats, but it’s always a good idea to confirm with your agent or landlord.
Internet
Main Providers:
- NTT (FLET’S Hikari) – the most common fiber-optic provider
- J:COM – offers packages with TV and mobile
- Other options: au Hikari, Softbank Hikari, or pocket Wi-Fi
Timing: May require 1–3 weeks for installation
Price: Monthly contracts from around ¥4,000–¥7,000
Setup fee: ¥3,000–¥10,000 (often waived in campaigns)
Setting up internet in Tokyo can be the most frustrating and time-consuming utility to deal with, especially if your building doesn’t already have fiber-optic lines. While many apartments are pre-wired for NTT or J:COM, new tenants still need to schedule installation and create a new contract—and wait times can stretch to 2–3 weeks during peak periods.
If you need internet urgently, consider renting pocket Wi-Fi or buy a Japan eSIM to use while waiting for your permanent setup. Some ISPs (like Softbank or au) may offer bundle discounts with mobile plans, which is worth considering if you’ll be in Japan for the long term.
Mail Forwarding & Redirection
If you’re arriving from abroad or moving within Japan, don’t forget to update your address with Japan Post. This can be done online or at your local post office using a redirection form (転居届, tenkyo todoke). Forwarding is free and lasts for 12 months.
You’ll need to provide ID, your old and new addresses, and a Japanese phone number (or someone who can be contacted).
City Hall Notifications
If you’re moving into or out of Tokyo, you’ll need to register your change of address at your local City Hall (区役所 or 市役所) within 14 days. This process is mandatory for all residents, including foreigners.
When moving:
- Into Tokyo: Register your new address at the new ward office.
- Out of Tokyo: File a “moving-out” notice (転出届, tenshutsu todoke) at your current ward office.
- Within Tokyo (ward to ward): be sure to pick up the move-out notice from the ward you’re leaving so that you can submit it to the ward you’re moving to.
- Within Tokyo (within a ward): be sure to notify your ward office of your change of address.
Bring:
- Your Residence Card
- My Number Card (if applicable)
- Passport (sometimes requested)
If you’re moving within the same ward, you’ll still need to notify City Hall of your new address.
Conclusion
Setting up utilities in Tokyo can feel overwhelming, especially with the mix of analog procedures, limited English support, and long wait times for certain services. But with good planning—or a capable relocation team like Tokyo Portfolio behind you—it can be surprisingly painless.
If you’re not sure where to start, let us handle the details. We set up all your utilities, internet, and paperwork—so when you open the door to your new Tokyo apartment, everything’s already in place.
