Buying a home in Japan is a huge milestone, but the journey doesn’t end at closing the deal. From setting up utilities to furnishing your new space and integrating into the community, there are several steps to ensure a smooth transition. Here’s your comprehensive guide to settling down after purchasing a home in Japan.

1. Setting Up Utilities

One of the first things you need to do after moving in is setting up essential utilities such as electricity, water, gas, and internet. Here’s how you can get everything up and running.

Electricity

Japan has two electricity providers, depending on your location:

• TEPCO (Tokyo Electric Power Company) – Eastern Japan (50Hz)


• Kansai Electric Power Company (KEPCO) – Western Japan (60Hz)

Most electric companies allow online applications. You’ll need:

• Your address


• Name and contact details


• Preferred billing method (credit card, bank transfer, or convenience store payments)

Gas services in Japan can be either city gas (都市ガス) or propane gas (プロパンガス). Major providers include:

Tokyo Gas; Osaka Gas and Toho Gas

For setup, you need to book an appointment as a technician must visit your home to activate the supply and check for safety.

Water: each city has a designated water provider. You can apply online or by phone through your local municipal office. Water bills are usually paid every two months.

Internet & Mobile Services

Internet setup can take 2-4 weeks, so it’s best to apply in advance. Some of the major providers are:

• SoftBank Hikari (Fast fiber-optic service)


• NTT FLET’S Hikari (Widely available)


• au Hikari (Good for mobile bundling)

You can also get pocket Wi-Fi as a temporary solution while waiting for fiber installation.

2. Furnishing Your Home

Now that utilities are sorted, it’s time to make your house a home. Japan offers various options for buying furniture and appliances, from budget-friendly stores to premium outlets.

Where to Shop

• Nitori – Japan’s IKEA, affordable and stylish.


• IKEA Japan – European-style furniture with Japanese adaptability.


• Muji – Minimalist, high-quality designs.


• Second-hand stores (Recycle Shops) – Try Hard-Off, Off House, or Treasure Factory for good deals.

For appliances, check Bic Camera, Yamada Denki, or Kojima for competitive pricing.

3. Registering at Your Local Ward Office

After moving in, you must register your new address at your local ward or city office within 14 days. Bring:

• Residence Card (在留カード)


• Passport


• My Number Card (マイナンバーカード) if applicable

This step ensures you receive official mail, health insurance, and tax documents properly.

4. Integrating Into the Community

Building a local network is key to feeling at home. Here’s how you can connect with your neighbors and engage with the community.

Join Local Events

Many neighborhoods have matsuri (festivals), flea markets, and cultural workshops throughout the year. Check the local community board (自治会掲示板) for announcements.

Learn Basic Japanese

While many services offer English support, daily interactions will be smoother if you know basic Japanese. Consider:

• Free Japanese lessons from local international centers


• Apps like Duolingo or Anki for kanji practice

Participate in Garbage Sorting

Japan has strict waste separation rules. Your city office provides a garbage collection schedule detailing what to dispose of and when.

5. Transportation & Daily Commutes

If you’re not driving, public transport will be your main mode of travel. Set up the following:

• IC Cards (Suica, Pasmo, or ICOCA) for convenient travel on trains and buses.


• Bicycle Registration – If you buy a bike, register it at a police station to prevent theft.


• Car Parking Contracts – In urban areas, you must prove parking space availability before buying a car.

6. Understanding Local Safety & Emergencies

Earthquake & Disaster Preparedness

Japan is prone to earthquakes, so familiarize yourself with emergency procedures:

• Keep an emergency kit with food, water, flashlight, and first aid.


• Register for J-Alert (emergency notifications from the government).


• Know evacuation spots (listed in your city’s disaster preparedness guide).

Medical Services

Find your nearest hospital and check if they provide English-speaking doctors. Some useful resources:

• AMDA International Medical Information Center – Provides translation support.


• Japan Healthcare Info (JHI) – Lists foreigner-friendly clinics.