A Guide to Understanding Bills in Japan

If you’re new to Japan or still learning the language, everyday tasks can feel overwhelming. Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Many newcomers feel the same way. Simple things like ordering food or paying bills can be confusing because everything is written in Japanese. The good news is that it gets easier once you get used to it. 

Here’s a simple guide to help you understand and pay your bills in Japan: 

How to recognize a bill

Most utility bills arrive by mail in a white or light-colored envelope. They usually include barcodes, payment slips and clear deadlines. 

Photo credit: BlogSpot

You may also see these common Japanese words: 

• 重要 (jūyō) – important

• 支払期限 (shiharai kigen) – payment deadline

• 請求金額 (seikyū kingaku) – amount billed

It also helps to know which company the bill is from. Some of the most common utility providers include: 

• Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO) – for electricity
• KDDI/au, NTT Docomo, Softbank – for internet and phone
• Tokyo Gas/Osaka Gas – for gas
• Local Water Bureau Offices – for water

How you can pay for your bills 

1. Convenience stores

One of the easiest ways to pay bills in Japan is at convenience stores. You can pay them at:

1. 7-Eleven
2. Lawson 
3. FamilyMart 
4. Ministop

All you need to do is bring your bill with the barcode. A staff member can scan it at the register, or you may use a self-service payment machine depending on the store. 

2. Bank transfer or automatic payment

Many people choose automatic bank transfers, called 口座振替 (kōza furikae). This allows the company to withdraw the bill amount from your bank account every month, so you never miss a deadline. If you prefer manual payments, you can also send a bank transfer using the company’s account information listed on the bill. 

3. Smiles Mobile Remittance

If you want to pay for your bills back home in the Philippines, such as electricity, water or other services, you can use the Smiles Mobile Remittance app to pay safely and quickly from Japan. 

How to pay overdue bills

Here’s what you can do if you miss a payment deadline: 

1. Call the company and request a reissued bill or ask for instructions for late payment. Some companies have English hotlines. If not, you can ask a friend to help you call. 
2. Once you receive the new bill, you can pay for it at your chosen convenience store. 
3. Some companies also allow late payments through bank transfers. 

Companies are usually understanding as long as you contact them and pay the bill soon, so try not to worry too much. Once you learn the process, it becomes part of your normal routine.

Share Smiles with your loved ones back home

As you settle into daily life in Japan, staying connected to your loved ones back home can make things feel easier. With Smiles Mobile Remittance, you can send money securely with everyday great rates, making the most of the money and the love you send home. 

You can also keep an eye on the JPY to PHP rate here.