Checklist for moving in Japan during spring 2027: step-by-step guide for sakura season moves

Moving in Japan during the sakura season (March-April 2027) is a unique experience, but it requires careful planning. This checklist for moving in Japan during spring 2027 will help you organize every step: from city paperwork to neighbor etiquette, utility contracts, and prohibited items in moves. Spring is a popular time for relocations, so book services early and follow this guide to avoid last-minute issues.

What you need to know before moving in Japan during spring

The sakura season attracts many people to move, especially in cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, or Osaka. Deadlines for address changes and utility contracts may take longer, so start at least 2 months in advance. Additionally, some items are prohibited in moves (such as certain chemicals or non-compatible appliances), and neighbor etiquette is key to integrating into your new neighborhood.

Use this list in Foco to keep track of each task. Assign start and due dates, priorities, and reminders to ensure nothing is overlooked. If working with a moving company, share relevant tasks with them using Foco’s public task link.

• Confirm the moving date with the transportation company and book at least 6 weeks in advance (demand is high in spring)
• Notify the current landlord or real estate agency of the move-out date 1-2 months in advance (check the lease for exact deadlines)
• File a moving-out notification (転出届, tenshutsu todoke) at your current city office before moving (deadline: 14 days before or after the move)
• Register your new address at the city office of your new neighborhood (転入届, ten'nyū todoke) within 14 days of moving in
• Update your address on your residence card (在留カード, zairyū kādo) at the local immigration office (deadline: 14 days after moving)
• Set up electricity (電気, denki) and water (水道, suidō) services at your new home (contact local providers 2 weeks in advance)
• Set up or transfer gas service (ガス, gasu) if the home uses it (may require a technician visit in some cases)
• Update your address for national health insurance (国民健康保険, kokumin kenko hoken) at the city office
• Notify the tax office (税務署, zeimusho) of your address change if applicable (especially for freelancers or business owners)
• Inform Japan Post (日本郵便) of your address change to forward mail (service available online or at post offices)
• Purchase moving boxes and packing materials (avoid using supermarket boxes, as they are not sturdy enough)
• Label all boxes with their contents and destination room (use kanji or romaji to help movers)
• Separate and dispose of items prohibited in moves (aerosols, flammable liquids, lithium batteries, live plants, etc.) according to the moving company’s rules
• Prepare a survival kit with essentials for the first few days (clothes, toiletries, documents, chargers, etc.)
• Thoroughly clean the current home before handing it over (include carpets, windows, and appliances if they belong to the landlord)
• Deep clean the new home before moving in (hire a professional service if needed)
• Visit the new neighborhood to locate supermarkets, pharmacies, hospitals, and nearby train or bus stations
• Introduce yourself to neighbors with a small gift (like sweets or soap) following Japanese etiquette (avoid early mornings or late nights)
• Check that appliances are compatible with Japan’s voltage (100V) and buy adapters if necessary
• Confirm the delivery time with the moving company and coordinate key handover with the landlord or agency