How to Pay Bills in Japan

There are many ways to pay your bills in Japan—outside of dropping by a Conbini.

For example, you can transfer the money from your bank account or set up monthly automatic withdrawals for a hassle-free alternative, or you can use a virtual mail service, like MailMate.

This article will explain the various methods of paying bills in Japan and where to go if you want to set up bill payments online. 

Methods for paying bills in Japan

There are multiple ways you can pay utility bills in Japan. These various payment methods require different degrees of effort.

Method 1: Convenience stores

For most people living in relatively populated areas, paying electricity bills or your water bill at a convenience store is the simplest option. You take your payment voucher to a store and you hand your bill to the cashier. They scan the barcode, and you pay the amount. After paying, you receive a receipt as proof of payment. 

One caveat to remember when using this method is that you must pay in cash. So if you're someone who doesn't keep cash on hand or if you have multiple bills you need to pay, this may not be the best option for you. 

Method 2: Cash apps

Most invoices come with a QR code or barcode that you can scan and pay through accepted cash apps linked to a credit card. These cash apps include the following:

• Line Pay 

• PayB

• PayPay

• Rakuten Bank

• FamiPay

However, this option may not be available depending on where you live. 

Method 3: MailMate

MailMate is a bilingual virtual mailbox service that includes a bill payment service and can pay bills at the local convenience store for you.

Check out our service explainer video!

MailMate is ideal for expats returning to their home country for a temporary stay or anyone who travels frequently and wants to make sure the lights stay on while you are away.

Method 4: Bank transfers

Bank transfers allow you to settle your bills directly from your bank account as a direct debit withdrawal. You can either go to your bank and transfer the money from an ATM or do a bank transfer via online banking. You will need to apply for this option in advance.

Method 5: Credit cards

You must first apply via mail or website if you want to pay your bills with your credit card. After sending in your application form, you will receive a notice from the company to inform you that your application went through.

Image. Sample of electricity bill from Fukuoka City International Foundation.

Can I pay my electricity bill online in Japan?

Perhaps you’d rather not trot out to the conbini to pay your bill?

If that sounds like you, you can have your utility bills automatically charged to your credit card or withdrawn from your bank account. This approach will ensure you never miss a payment. It's also convenient for people who travel frequently or have busy schedules. 

To set up automatic withdrawals, you must fill out an application form from the utility company you are signed up with. Depending on your electricity provider, you may be able to apply online through the company's official website.

Below is a list of Japan's top 10 electricity companies throughout Japan and whether or not they permit online applications for automatic bill payments. Note: Most of the following sites are only in Japanese.

1. TEPCO (Tokyo Electric Power)

Credit card payment: can apply online 

Bank withdrawal payment: can apply online

2. CHUDEN (Chubu Electric Power)

Credit card payment: can apply online

Bank withdrawal: mail applications only

3. HEPCO (Hokkaido Electric Power)

Credit card payment: can apply online

Bank withdrawal: mail applications only

4. Tohoku Electric Power

Credit card payment: can apply online 

Bank withdrawal: mail applications only

5. RIKUDEN (Hokuriku Electric Power)

Credit card payment: can apply online

Bank withdrawal: mail applications only

6. KEPCO (Kansai Electric Power)

Credit card payment: can apply online

Bank withdrawal: can apply online

7. Chugoku Electric Power

Credit card payment: can apply online for customers with membership or through the mail 

Bank withdrawal: application form available online for certain banks

8. YONDEN (Shikoku Electric Power)

Credit card payment: can apply online

Bank withdrawal: application form available online for certain banks

9. KYUDEN (Kyushu Electric Power)

Credit card payment: can apply online

Bank withdrawal: application form available online for certain banks

10. Okinawa Electric Power

Credit card payment: can apply online

Bank withdrawal: application form available online

In closing

While there are plenty of ways to pay your bills in Japan, the key is to use the most convenient method that allows you to pay them on time. 

Convenience store payments may be a simple option for most people. However, if you don’t want to forget to pay your electricity bill, it might be best to consider MailMate’s virtual mail services, which are great for individuals who travel frequently or have busy schedules.