Moving House in Japan: Hikkoshi Companies, Timing and Etiquette

Plan a move in Japan with confidence: when moving season is busiest, how estimates and packing work, what to notify at the city office, and how to greet new neighbors.

Published October 20, 2026 at 1:43 PM JST | By Tokyo Paul

Quick answer: A move in Japan (hikkoshi) usually involves comparing estimates from moving companies, packing and cleaning, notifying the city office, and greeting neighbors. Late March and early April tend to be the busiest period, so book early. Residents must file a moving-in or change-of-address notification at the municipal office within 14 days of moving, and a moving-out notice if leaving the municipality.

When to move

Timing makes a large difference to cost and availability. In Japan, the school year and many work assignments begin in April, so late March and early April are widely known as the busiest moving period. Moving companies have limited trucks and crews at that time, and customers often find that availability is tight and prices are higher.

If your dates are flexible, consider moving outside that peak, such as in the middle of a month or on a weekday. Weekends and the end of the month are also popular, since leases and contracts often run on a monthly cycle. Ask each company how its prices change by date and time of day. Booking several weeks ahead is a sensible approach, and booking earlier during the spring period is even better. Write your preferred date and a backup date in your notes, so you can answer quickly when a company offers an opening.

Hikkoshi companies and estimates

Hikkoshi companies range from large national operators to small local firms that handle short moves. Many offer options for different needs, such as a standard full-service move, a smaller van for a single person, or a self-pack plan where you box items yourself. Choose what fits the size of your home and how much work you want to do.

Estimates are usually the first step. A representative may visit to look at your belongings, or an online or phone estimate may be offered for simple moves. Ask for the quote in writing, with a list of what is included, such as boxes, tape, furniture protection and disassembly. Compare at least a few quotes, and ask about insurance for damage, stairs or elevator access and any extra charges for narrow streets. Rates change often, so confirm everything before you sign.

Packing, boxes and cleaning

Packing early makes the final days calmer. Start with seasonal and rarely used items, label each box by room, and keep a small bag with valuables, documents, keys and chargers close to you. Some companies supply boxes, and some offer packing help for an extra fee. Check what is included in your plan.

Cleaning the old home is often part of getting a deposit back or leaving a good impression with the landlord. Rental agreements usually describe the condition in which a home should be returned, so read your contract. Take photos of the room when you move out, and arrange a time for the landlord or property manager to check it. Keep the new home's cleaning supplies handy for the first day as well.

Notifications at the city office

Municipal notifications go with every move, and Immigration Services Agency guidance for foreign residents describes them. If you move to another municipality, you file a moving-out notification at the office where you lived before the move. After you settle in the new municipality, you file a moving-in notification within 14 days, bringing your residence card and family-relationship documents if applicable.

If you move within the same municipality, you file a change-of-address notification within 14 days. Address changes are also generally recorded for your Individual Number Card at the municipal office. Because procedures differ a little between offices, check your office's website or call ahead, and ask what else you can finish in the same visit, such as health insurance or school enrollment.

Utilities, mail and other updates

A move touches many accounts. Tell electricity, gas, water, internet and phone providers your move-out and move-in dates in advance, because some services need appointments or technician visits. Update your address with your bank, insurers, employer, school and any subscriptions. Japan Post describes a forwarding service that lasts one year from the date you submit the relocation form, and you can apply at a post office counter or online before you move.

Do not forget practical details such as registering the new address for a car, if you have one, and checking whether your health insurance or school arrangements need updating. A simple spreadsheet or checklist helps you track which tasks are done and which are waiting. This guide shares general information; rules change, so confirm details with the official agency or provider before you act.

Greeting your new neighbors

Greeting the neighbors is a friendly custom after a move. A short visit to the neighbors on either side, above and below, with a brief self-introduction and a small gift is a common way to start on a good footing. Gifts are usually kept inexpensive, practical and easy to accept, so that neighbors do not feel any pressure to return the favor. Consumable items are a safe idea, and you can keep the visit short.

There is also a traditional custom called hikkoshi soba, which means giving soba noodles to new neighbors after a house move. Wikipedia describes it as a tradition in the Tokyo area that is now rare, so a simple greeting and a small gift are enough today. If you rent, apartment managers or landlords can sometimes tell you what is usual in your building. A smile and a polite hello go a long way.

Garbage rules and community life

Garbage rules are among the first things to learn in a new place. The Immigration Services Agency's guidebook has a section on basic rules for garbage disposal and on illegal dumping, and your municipality publishes a local guide. Collection days, sorting categories and bag types vary by city, so check them before your first week. Large items often need to be booked separately, so plan ahead when clearing out furniture.

Ask the landlord or the neighbors where the garbage point is and who handles it. Some neighborhoods have an association that organizes it, and the guidebook lists residents' and neighborhood associations under community life. Being tidy and on time with garbage is a simple way to build goodwill, and it helps new neighbors feel comfortable with you from the beginning.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the busiest time to move in Japan?

Late March and early April are widely known as the busiest period, since the school year and many job assignments begin in April. Trucks and crews are in high demand, so book early, or consider moving at another time of year or on a weekday if your dates are flexible.

What do I need to report at the city office after moving?

According to Immigration Services Agency guidance, you file a moving-out notice before leaving a municipality and a moving-in notice within 14 days after settling in the new one. If you move within the same municipality, you file a change-of-address notice within 14 days. Check your own office for details.

Do I have to give gifts to neighbors?

It is a friendly custom, not a legal requirement. A short greeting with a small gift is a common way to introduce yourself. The old custom of hikkoshi soba is described as now rare. If you are unsure, ask your landlord or property manager what is usual in your building.

Want to go deeper? Tokyo Paul's book Building a Life in Japan is available on Amazon.

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