How to Set Up Electricity, Gas, and Water in Japan Before Moving (2025 Guide)

When moving into a new residence, it’s crucial to arrange for essential utilities such as electricity, gas, and water in advance. Delaying these procedures can lead to inconveniences like no hot water or electricity on your move-in day, depending on the timing. Therefore, be sure to check and complete these tasks before your relocation.

Procedures for electricity, gas, and water services and whether attending is required

When starting to use utilities, the procedures and the need for attendance may vary slightly.

Essential Tips to Know Before Moving

1. Electricity

In most cases, electricity can be activated remotely without a visit from the utility company. After applying, you may only need to switch on the circuit breaker when you move in.

However, you still need to contact your chosen electricity provider to register your new address and set up billing. If you have a smart meter, activation can usually be completed within the same day once your application is processed.

2. Gas

Gas service in Japan always requires the contract holder to be present during valve activation. This is because the technician will check for indoor gas leaks and explain how to safely use your gas appliances.

You can choose your preferred appointment time when booking. The visit usually takes about 20 minutes, but during the peak moving season (January to March), it can be difficult to secure your ideal slot. We recommend booking at least two weeks in advance and keeping your schedule flexible before and after the appointment.

3. Water

Water supply setup is usually simple and does not require an in-person visit. You can apply online or by phone through your local water bureau. In some areas, you may need to submit a short application form by post or online.

For Tokyo residents, the Tokyo Waterworks app also provides a disaster water supply map—a useful tool in emergencies.

Make the reservation at least one week before the move.

It is recommended to apply for electricity, gas, and water services at least one week before the move, and no later than 3-4 days prior to the move.

Especially when moving during the peak moving season, it’s not uncommon to miss out on your preferred date and time if you don’t make the reservation well in advance.

If you want to ensure that you can use utilities from the day you move in, it’s advisable to make a reservation around two weeks in advance.

Sign Up for Electricity and Gas with the Same Company

In the past, setting up utilities meant calling each provider separately or relying on a real estate agent. Now, it’s much more convenient—both Tokyo Gas and TEPCO (Tokyo Electric Power Company) offer online applications for both electricity and gas services.

For example, through the Tokyo Gas website, you can arrange contracts for gas and electricity at the same time. Similarly, TEPCO allows customers to sign up for both services in a single online process. If you are moving within the same service area, each company also enables you to handle move-in and move-out procedures together, making the transition much smoother—even during a busy relocation period.

Certain payment methods may earn you points.

You can choose from various payment methods for your electricity, gas, and water bills, such as paper invoices, bank transfers, and credit cards. These days, registering a credit card or using electronic money can also earn you reward points on your monthly utility payments. Since these bills are paid every month, many people enjoy gradually accumulating points throughout the year, turning a regular expense into a small bonus.

Online Tools and Apps for Utilities

While you can still receive electricity, gas, and water bills by mail, many people now use online services to view and manage their accounts. Many providers offer visual dashboards that display your usage and billing history.

For example, the Tokyo Metropolitan Waterworks Bureau has a dedicated app featuring a “Disaster Water Stations” menu, which shows the locations where you can collect drinking water during emergencies.

In addition, many utility companies include practical tips and lifestyle information on their websites and apps, helping residents manage their daily lives more easily.

Prepare for your move early for a comfortable start to your new life.

Arranging electricity, gas, and water services can seem complicated at first, but with today’s online tools and apps, the process is faster and easier than ever.

At Smart Relocate, we include electricity, gas, and water setup as part of our service for clients who use our real estate rental or sales brokerage services, so please feel free to contact us if you need assistance.