Japanese Utilities
05 Apr 2007
Before we moved into a Japanese house, we were warned that utilities in Japan were expensive. Because of this, we have learned to be very conservative with energy--turning lights off when not in use, unplugging phone chargers, heating only the room we are using, hanging clothes to dry, etc. So, just how expensive is Japan? Well, as conservative as we are, these are our average monthly utility bills:
| Bill | Gas | Kerosene | Power | Water |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost in Yen | 9000 (~$78) | 3000 (~$26) | 10000 (~$87) | 5000 (~$44) |
This winter was mild, so the kerosene and electricity bills would normally be higher. In the summer, kerosene is not needed, but more electricity is used for fans and air conditioners, so the total amount will be comparable.
One of the main reasons for the high cost, besides an island's lack of resources, is probably the excessive printing done by the utility companies. When the agents come to read the meter or fill the gas, a paper statement is placed in your mailbox. However, you cannot use this to pay your bill. Several days later another piece of paper--the actual bill--is placed in your mail slot. This one has a bar code on it. You can take it to any local convenience store (7-11 or Circle K for example) and pay it at the register with Yen cash. If that weren't enough paper, about once a month fliers or booklets are left in your mailbox by the company whic tell you how to conserve and be safe with their product. An example is shown in the picture above, which was left for me by my gas company for earthquake safety. I can't read the text on the fliers, but the pictures are fun to interpret. This fun, though, is not worth paying extra for utilities to include cute print-ups.
Another concern to watch for with utility bills is the lack of Romaji. It is very difficult to tell which statement and bill is which unless you read Kanji and Hiragana. However, if there is a meters cubed measurement on the statement, then it is a water or gas bill. The gas bill will generally have "LP" written on it so that is a good way to tell the difference. The power bill has "TEPCO" written on it and measures in kWh and Kerosene is purchased at a gas station. Other bills may come for you (like internet or cable), but they should have the company's logo on them. The statements may not have any indication of what company they come from, so just wait for the actual bill to come. Also, always make sure that your name and address are on the bill. I have received bills for the wrong person before!
In concolusion, Japanese utilities are expensive and it is sometimes difficult to tell which bill is what. They are very easy to pay and you do not need to know Japanese to pay them. If you have any further questions, please email me. Also, don't forget to utilize your agent which helped you find your house. They were paid a commission for a reason and are there to help you.