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Utilities & Monthly Bills in Japan

Utilities & Monthly Bills in Japan (2025 Guide for New Residents)

Understanding how utilities work in Japan can help you planning realistic monthly budgets and avoid bad surprises after moving in. Electricity, gas, and water are often billed separately, and each has its own providers, payment methods, and seasonal patterns. This guide breaks down average costs, how to set this up properly, and smart ways to reduce expenses for single residents and small households.

1) Electricity

Electricity is usually contracted through a regional company—such as TEPCO (Tokyo Electric), Kansai Electric, or Kyushu Electric. You’ll sign up during your move-in process or through your landlord. Power is measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh), and bills vary by usage and season.

  • Average cost (single person): ¥5,000–¥9,000/month
  • Summer/Winter usage: Higher due to air conditioning and heating.
  • Setup: Call or apply online; activation often happens within 1–2 business days.
  • Payment: Auto-debit, convenience store, or bank transfer.

2) Gas

Gas is used for cooking, water heating, and sometimes heating rooms. There are two main types:

  • City Gas (都市ガス): Cheaper, typically supplied via underground pipes in most urban areas.
  • Propane (LPガス): Delivered by truck in rural areas—more expensive per unit.
  • Average cost (single person): ¥3,000–¥6,000/month
  • Winter increase: Expect higher bills due to more frequent water heating.
  • Setup: Gas provider visits your apartment to open the valve and check safety.

3) Water

Water bills are usually handled by your local city office or a regional public utility. They’re billed every two months but can be estimated monthly for budgeting purposes.

  • Average cost (for a single person): ¥2,000–¥4,000/month
  • Billing cycle: Usually every two months, with printed invoices.
  • Payment: Convenience store, bank, or automatic withdrawal.

4) Internet

Internet isn’t included in rent for most apartments. Fiber connections (Hikari) are standard in urban areas, but setup can take 1–3 weeks. Portable Wi-Fi is a faster short-term option. For a full breakdown of home internet and SIM options, read our guide: How to Get a SIM Card and Internet in Japan (2025 Guide).

  • Average cost (home fiber): ¥4,000–¥6,000/month
  • Portable Wi-Fi: ¥3,000–¥5,000/month (flexible plans but lower performance)

5) Other Regular Charges

  • NHK TV License Fee: Required if you own a television (~¥1,200/month).
  • Garbage / Recycling Fees: This is usally included in municipal taxes, but some apartments charge small monthly fees (~¥500–¥1,000).

6) Average Monthly Utility Costs (Single Resident)

Utility Average Monthly Cost Notes
Electricity ¥5,000–¥9,000 Higher in summer and winter due to heating/cooling.
Gas ¥3,000–¥6,000 Varies by city gas or propane usage.
Water ¥2,000–¥4,000 Billed every two months by local government.
Internet ¥4,000–¥6,000 Fiber connection; portable Wi-Fi slightly cheaper.
Total (single resident) ¥12,000–¥20,000/month Around ¥25,000–¥30,000 for two people.

7) Tips to Save on Utilities

  • Use energy-efficient lighting: LED bulbs cut electricity use by 50–70%.
  • Switch to a smart meter plan: Many providers offer off-peak or renewable options.
  • Check your insulation: Seal window gaps to reduce air conditioning costs.
  • Unplug unused devices: Standby power can account for up to 10% of your bill.
  • Monitor usage: Most electric companies provide online dashboards showing daily consumption.

Related Reading

For a full breakdown of everyday expenses, read our detailed guide: Cost of Living in Japan (2025).

Disclaimer: This article provides general estimates for informational purposes. Actual costs vary by region, building type, and personal usage.

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