Introduction
One of the most important tasks is setting up your utilities. Compared to other countries, utility setup in Japan
is surprisingly analog, and timing is especially critical for gas and internet connections.
One key consideration: if you move during peak moving seasons (March–May, August–October), many service
providers are busy at the same time, and it may become difficult to secure appointments for these services.
This column will help you better understand the process and prepare in advance!
Target: Foreign residents planning to move into Nagoya/Aichi
Purpose of this column: To understand the procedures and contact information needed to ensure electricity, gas, water, and internet are connected by your move-in date
・Typical utility providers in Nagoya:
(* Water is provided by the municipality, electricity and gas by private companies.)
・Electricity = Chubu Electric Power (Miraiz)
・Gas = Toho Gas
・Water = Nagoya City Waterworks & Sewerage Bureau
| Utilities Setup Guide (Nagoya) | Main Provider (Example) | Ideal Application Timing | Application & Processing | On-Site Attendance | Initial Cost / Fees | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Electricity | Chubu Electric Power Miraiz, etc. | About 1 week before move-in (per official guide) | Online application; the earliest start date is calculated on the website. Usually usable simply by switching the breaker ON. | Not required in principle | Generally no handling fee for the procedure itself. Monthly charges consist of a basic fee + usage-based fee (depending on plan). | ||||
| Gas (City Gas) | Toho Gas | 2 weeks to 10 days before move-in (apply earlier during busy seasons) | Appointment required for a specific time slot (9–12 / 13–15 / 15–17, etc.). Same-day requests may not be possible. | Required(for gas activation and safety inspection) | Only attendance for the activation work is needed. Charges are the basic fee + usage fee after service starts (depending on plan). | ||||
| Water | Nagoya City Waterworks & Sewerage Bureau | Apply about 1 week before move-in for peace of mind | Contact required by the day before, according to official guidance. Online applications are processed from 2 business days later. | Usually not required | Billed once every 2 months (basic fee + usage). No explicit mention of an initial procedure fee (= generally none expected). | ||||
Utility Startup Support
- If you need assistance, our bilingual agents can help arrange electricity, gas, water,
and internet. - Book a consultation (LINE / WhatsApp / Email)
