Everyday Life

Learning Japanese ｜ Garbage ｜ Utilities ｜ Enrollment in a Residents’ Association 

Learning Japanese

As acquiring Japanese language skills is essential for living comfortably in Chiba City, the Chiba City International Association provides those foreign residents who wish to learn Japanese with information on language volunteers and Japanese language lessons. For details, please contact the Chiba City International Association.

Chiba City International Association	TEL 043-202-3000

Garbage

In Chiba City, household garbage is separated into five categories for collection. Combustible waste, incombustible waste, hazardous waste, recyclable materials, and bulky items should be separated and put out at designated sites by 8時00分AM on the day of collection.

Please note that, except for combustible waste, if a collection day for a certain type of garbage falls on a holiday or substitute holiday, there will be no collection. Garbage will also not be collected during year-end/New Year.

Waste that does not fit into designated garbage bags should be disposed of as bulky items, which are collected separately from each household for a fee after making an appointment with the Bulky Item Collection Center (TEL 043-302-5374).

Proper Garbage Disposal

Please refer to the brochure, 'How to Dispose of Household Garbage and Recyclables'.

For more information, please contact the Waste Collection Operations Division (TEL 043-245- 5246). 

Utilities

Electricity

If you have trouble with your electricity, contact Tokyo Electric Power Company’s Chiba Customer Center (TEL 0120-99-5552).

Gas

Gas leaks are dangerous because they can cause explosions. If you suspect that there is a gas leak, immediately shut off the gas valves and contact the gas company. The gas company is on call 24 hours a day. You should also refrain from touching any electrical switches – do not use the exhaust fan, but instead open the windows to let fresh air flow through.

Water

If the water is cloudy or you suspect there may be leaks, please contact the customer center of the Chiba Prefecture Waterworks Bureau (TEL 0570-001245) or the Chiba City Waterworks Bureau (TEL 043-291-5462).

Sewerage

Do not put garbage down your kitchen drain. If a water pipe becomes clogged, contact a sewer maintenance outlet. Contact the Sewerage Operations Division (TEL 043-245-5411) for more information.

How to Pay Public Utility Bills

Electricity, gas, water, sewerage, phone, and other public utility bills can be paid at banks, post offices, and convenience stores. Pay your bills by credit card, by taking them to the teller at the bank or post office, or by having the amounts automatically withdrawn from your bank account. 

Enrollment in a Neighborhood Residents' Association

Foreign residents who are starting a new life in a different country far away from their homeland may experience various problems in everyday life due to differences in culture and customs. It is a good idea to take the initiative in making new friends by greeting your neighbors and participating in local community events. Every community has a neighborhood residents' association, consisting of people living in the local area who voluntarily get together. These associations provide useful information for everyday living, and conduct local events such as bon-odori dancing and summer festivals. Although joining a neighborhood residents' association is voluntary and membership dues are required, we recommend that you join to become a part of your community.

For more information, contact the Citizens’ Autonomy Promotion Division (TEL 043-245-5138) or the Community-Building Support Office, Community Promotion Division at any ward office.

Return to the Table of Contents (Guidebook for Living in Chiba City)