Digital Nomads – 5 Best Places in Japan
The 5 Best Places for Digital Nomads in Japan
I consider myself a bit of a seasoned digital nomad, and I am very lucky to combine work with my love for travel! After bouncing around Japan for years with my laptop in tow, I can say I’ve gotten pretty good at sniffing out the best spots for our nomadic tribe. Let’s face it, finding the perfect command center in a different country can be a bit dizzying, but let me help you crack the code. Here’s my guide for the digital nomad in Japan: best places to work and play.
Grab a cup of matcha (or a strong coffee if jet lag’s hitting hard), and let’s look at my top five choices that meet all the requirements: lightning-fast Wi-Fi, fantastic coworking spaces, and just enough local flavor to keep things interesting. Let’s go find your next homebase in the Land of The Rising Sun.
I have been travelling now for nearly three years. I left my 9-5 job in the UK and have never looked back. The one thing I would always advise anybody considering a nomad lifestyle is to just go for it! It will change you for the better. Music is my passion and I love to attend concerts of any variety but I do have a sweet spot for rock music.
Affiliate Disclosure: Some of the links on our site are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, we may earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. This helps us to continue providing valuable content and supports our efforts in bringing the travel community together. We only recommend products and services we believe in and think you’ll find useful. Complete details are included in our affiliate disclaimer. Thank you for your support!
Key Takeaways
- Osaka offers great food and coworking spaces
- Kyoto provides a mix of tradition and modernity
- Hiroshima is ideal for history enthusiasts
- Fukuoka boasts a tech scene
- Nagoya is perfect for those looking for a balance of city life and nature
- Sapporo is a winter paradise with reliable internet
Why Should I Be A Digital Nomad in Japan?
Ever thought of shaking work up with a side of sushi and ancient temples? Of course, living the digital nomad life in Japan is much more than this. This place will keep the tech lover in you on your toes: really fast Internet for extremely crystal-clear Zoom calls and gadgets galore. It’s not all about the tech, though – Japan seamlessly blends he ultra-modern with the seriously old school. One minute you’re typing away in a sleek coworking space, the next you’re meditating in a centuries-old garden.
The change of scenery does wonders for your creativity, I know it has mine. Even quiet moments on the train are enough to get those ideas flowing. Plus, the Japanese work ethic is contagious – you’ll find yourself more productive than ever but in a zen kind of way. Oh, and the food? Trust me, your taste buds will thank you for this career move. Even convenience store onigiri can blow your mind.
Now, let’s talk about the nitty-gritty stuff for a sec – the legal side. Japan’s not exactly rolling out the red carpet for digital nomads yet, but don’t let that stop you. Most of us start with a 90-day tourist visa, which you can often extend for another 90 days. If you’re looking to stay longer, consider language school visas or working holiday visas if you’re eligible. Taxes are another thing to think about – you might need to deal with obligations both in Japan and your home country, so it’s worth chatting with an expert about this. You can also check The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan’s website to be sure.
The 5 Best Places for Digital Nomads in Japan
| Destination | Best for | Best Time to Visit | Average Wifi Speeds |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tokyo | Vibrant city life | April or October-November | 100-200 Mbps |
| Osaka | Foodie paradise | April or October-November | 100-200 Mbps |
| Kyoto | Historical sites | April, June or October-November | 80-150 Mbps |
| Okinawa | Beautiful beaches | June-September or December-February | 70-120 Mbps |
| Fukuoka | Startup Scene | March-May or October-November | 100-200 Mbps |
1. Tokyo – The Energetic Hub
Tokyo isn’t just an electric megalopolis that is the beating heart of Japan – it’s a digital nomad’s playground, where cutting-edge tech meets centuries-old traditions.
Best Places for Work and Play
Whether work or play, Tokyo really has it all. For getting stuff done, you’ve got some really cool options. Do some brainstorming at WeWork Shibuya Stream or the The Hive Jinnan for those killer views, or crush that deadline while sipping the best coffee of your life at Fuglen. For those days when you just need some peace and quiet to get more work done, the National Diet Library is great choice – it’s like working in a slice of history.
But let’s be real, we’re not here to just work, right? Trust me, Tokyo knows how to seriously party. So you wanna sing a little? Shinjuku’s karaoke joints call your name. Geek at heart? Well, Akihabara’s techno heaven’s got you. And if food’s your thing, well, I won’t even recommend a place. You can walk into a random specialty restaurant somewhere and be served the best meal of your life.
Best Time to Visit
Timing is everything, especially when you’re planning to set up your digital nomad base in Tokyo. Let me break it down for you.
Spring (March to May) is a crowd favorite. Cherry blossoms paint the city pink, and the weather’s just perfect – not too hot, not too cold. It’s Instagram heaven but heads up, it’s also peak tourist season. The crowds during Golden Week are enough to make your heart race. Fall (September to November) is my personal fave. The weather’s crisp, the skies are clear, and the autumn colors are off the charts. It’s busy, but not as crazy as spring.
Not gonna lie, summer (from June to August) can really be a sweat-fest. It’s hot, it’s humid, and the heat rays are unkind—to the point that you’ll feel like a vampire out in the sun. If you can stand the heat though, you’ll totally love the never-ending summer festivals and fireworks shows. Just do your best to ensure your lodging has good A/C. On the other end of the spectrum, winter (December to February) is chilly but oh-so magical. Tokyo takes on a whole new appearance in winter, dusted in snow and full with the most beautiful winter illuminations you can possibly see. They take Christmas very seriously!
Local Eats
Here comes my favorite part, let’s talk about Tokyo eats. You might have heard already that the food scene here is off the charts, and even I think that’s an understatement!
First up, you’ve gotta hit Tsukiji Outer Market. Yeah, the main fish market moved, but the outer area is still foodie heaven. Grab some fresh sushi for breakfast (trust me, it’s a thing here) at Sushi Dai. Their fatty tuna will change your life with each bite. If you’re a ramenhead like me, head to Nakiryu in Toshima. It’s got a Michelin star, but don’t let that intimidate you – it’s super casual and crazy affordable. You’ll never forget their tantanmen. Ever.
Convenience store food here is infamous for a reason. It may sound weird, but Japanese konbini are on another level. Grab an onigiri from 7-Eleven or a bento from Lawson – they’re cheap, delicious, and perfect for those days when you’re on a roll and can’t step away from your laptop.
A Digital Nomad’s Budget for Tokyo
Tokyo has a rep for being very expensive, but trust me, it’s totally doable with careful planning. I budgeted between 200,000 and 300,000 yen (about $1,800 to $2,700) per month for a comfortable stay while I was in the city. That included a decent apartment, food, transport, and wiggle room for some fun. In here, your biggest expense will be rent, so expect to shell out about 100,000 to 150,000 yen for a small but cozy apartment in a hip area like Shimokitazawa or Koenji. There are cheaper options in the outskirts of Tokyo, but do consider travel time. There are also shared houses or Airbnbs that you can consider for longer stays to score better deals.
Now, for the daily stuff you need to also consider. A monthly train pass will set you back about 10,000 yen, but it’s worth every yen in the name of convenience. Food can be as cheap or as splurge-y, totally depending on you. I suggest budgeting around 40,000 to 60,000 yen a month just to be sure. Always factor in those fancy sushi nights with some budget-friendly meals. Toss in another 40,000 yen for entertainment and miscellaneous expenses, and you should be good to go. For a good comparison of a much more expensive country. Then check out the full overview of budgeting for being a digital nomad in Finland.
2. Osaka – The Foodie’s Paradise
When I think of my time in Osaka, my mouth immediately waters. The place is just revered for its perfect blend of mouth-watering cuisine, friendly vibes, and a work-hard-play-hard mantra.
Best Places for Work and Play
Osaka’s got a growing coworking scene that’ll make you actually look forward to Mondays. I’ve spent many days working in Urban Innovation OSAKA or Busico in Umeda – they’ve got fast Wi-Fi, cool vibes, and enough coffee to fuel you. If you’re a coffee snob and would like speciality ones while hammering away on your laptop, spots like Brooklyn Roasting Company or Mel Coffee Roasters offer great brews and plenty of outlets. And here’s a local secret: the Osaka Municipal Central Library is a gorgeous spot for those days when you need max concentration.
Fun in this city starts immediately — right after you close your laptop! Off to Dotonbori then, for some sensory overload. Neon lights, street food, and the energy that’s remains unmatched. If you fancy a bit of culture, the Osaka Castle area is perfect for a stroll and some history. Or, if you want to meet locals and fellow nomads, drop by any old izakaya in Namba; there wouldn’t be a better way than swapping stories of travel over some takoyaki and cold beers.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March to May) is a total stunner in Osaka. The cherry blossoms go wild, especially around Osaka Castle. The weather’s just right – not too hot, not too cold. Perfect for exploring between work sessions. Just a heads up, it can get busy with tourists, but the vibe is so fun, that it’s hard to resist. Summer (June to August) is when Osaka really turns up the heat – and I mean that literally! It gets hot and humid, but it’s festival season, baby! The Tenjin Matsuri in July is like nothing you’ve ever seen.
Fall (September to November), again, is my favorite season even here in Osaka. Nice and chill weather, partnered with leaves turning beautiful colors. It’s just perfect for outdoor working and exploration. Winter lasts from December to February, and it can get pretty chilly – but nothing like Tokyo. The winter illumination here is very different, too. Nothing beats wrapping up work and heading out to see the city all lit up. Oh, and the winter food selection? Pure comfort.
Local Eats
Osaka lives and breathes the concept of “kuidaore,” which basically means “eat yourself bankrupt.” Chill, your wallet’s safe – it’s more about the city’s burning passion for food than actually going broke (but it’s possible with all the choices here!). Osaka’s nicknamed “Japan’s kitchen” for a reason, and you’ll find yourself planning your work breaks around meals before you know it.
First, you’ve got to try takoyaki – these octopus-filled balls of joy are Osaka’s soul food. Hit up Takoyaki Kukuru in Dotonbori for the real deal. You will never miss it – it has a huge octopus wrapped around the store sign! Next, try some okonomiyaki at Mizuno in Minami – it’s like a savory pancake that’ll make you forget all about brunch back home. For a quick lunch between calls, grab some kushikatsu (fried skewers of awesomeness) at Daruma in Shinsekai. And if you’re pulling a late-night work session, reward yourself with a steaming bowl of ramen at Kinryu Ramen – it’s open 24/7 for those who get inspiration (and hunger) strikes at 3 AM.
If you are foodie, then while in Asia, check out going to Singapore. Singapore offers some of the best food in the world!
A Digital Nomad’s Budget for Osaka
Alright, let’s break down the yen situation for living that sweet digital nomad life in Osaka. Good news: your wallet’s gonna be a bit happier here compared to Tokyo!
For a comfortable life in Osaka, budget around 150,000 to 250,000 yen a month (that’s about $1,350 to $2,250). Rent will be a huge chunk of that, but it won’t eat up all your cash. A decent apartment in an area like Namba or Fukushima will cost about 70,000 to 100,000 yen. Again, cheaper if a little outside the city.
Set aside about 50,000 to 70,000 yen for food – and believe me, in Osaka, that’ll get you far. A monthly train pass will run you about 8,000 yen, which is a steal for all that exploring you’ll do. Osaka, just like any other places in Japan, is extremely walkable so you can also get those steps in. Toss in another 30,000 to 50,000 yen for entertainment and extras, and you’re golden.
3. Kyoto – The Cultural Heart of Japan
If you’re dreaming of a workspace with a side of Zen gardens and ancient temples, then Kyoto’s calling your name. This former imperial capital is where Japan’s rich history meets modern coworking spaces, offering you a chance to code by day and contemplate life in a 1,000-year-old shrine by night.
Best Places for Work and Play
Okay, now let’s talk about getting stuff done. Despite its traditional vibe, this city offers some really awesome spots for us nomads. Visit Impact Hub Kyoto, a fantastic coworking space housed in a refurbished sake warehouse. How’s that for inspiration? If you’re more of a café worker, you’ll love % Arabica in Higashiyama. Their Wi-Fi is as strong as their coffee, and the view of the old streets? Chef’s kiss. For a unique experience, try Kiyomizu Sabo in Gion. It’s a traditional teahouse turned workspace that will make your realize how sipping matcha while working on that project is a game-changer.
All work and no play makes for a dull nomad—good thing Kyoto’s got you covered in both departments. Take a break and stroll through the bamboo groves in Arashiyama – it literally feels like walking into another world. Pro tip: Go early in the morning before logging in to work to avoid the crowds. For a dose of culture, walk up Kiyomizu-dera temple. The view of Kyoto from there is 100% worth the climb. After the sun sets, head out to the Pontocho Alley, which is a narrow street filled with small bars and restaurants. It’s a great way to unwind after a whole day of crushing your goals. A piece of advice from one traveller to another, take as any photos and videos as possible. The insta360 will capture your entire trip while being light and compact for a professional traveller.
Best Time to Visit
While Kyoto is a magical place year-round, spring or fall are the best times to visit if you want to find that sweet spot. I’ve been to Kyoto many times, and believe me – those seasons are when Kyoto really shines. Spring (late March to early May) is all about the cherry blossoms. Picture yourself working on your laptop under a canopy of pink petals – yep, it’s as dreamy as it sounds. Fall (October to November) turns temples and gardens into a sea of reds and golds. It’s quieter than spring, perfect if you want to focus on work while soaking in the atmosphere.
Summer can be quite sticky (literally) and crowded with tourists. I suggest avoiding this season when you’re not to keen on squeezing into crowds and sweating everywhere. Winter gets pretty chilly, but hey, if you don’t mind bundling up, it has its own charm. Think snow-capped temples and cozy cafes, just perfect for getting work done. Try to avoid Golden Week (late April to early May) and Obon (mid-August). The city gets packed, and prices skyrocket.
Local Eats
I’ve eaten my way through Kyoto more times than I can count (and maybe admit). You know what’s great about being a digital nomad here? You can work hard and eat even harder. Ever tried yudofu? It’s this crazy-good hot tofu dish that made me wonder why I ever dissed tofu before.In between Zoom calls, grab a bowl of nishin soba or kyō-yasai from the local market. Also be sure to visit Nishiki Market, which is really Disneyland for foodies. You can eat your way through, trying everything from roasted chestnuts to incredibly fresh sashimi.
If you need some fuel for those late-night overtime hours, the izakaya scene has got your back. And hey, don’t knock the vending machine restaurants till you’ve tried ’em. They’re a lifesaver when you’re on a deadline and need good grub fast.
A Digital Nomad’s Budget for Kyoto
Being a tourist hotspot, Kyoto can be a bit of a wallet-squeezer. Don’t worry though, you just need to do some budgeting to make it work. For accommodation, expect to shell out around 50,000-80,000 yen a month for a decent apartment or share house. Look in areas like Fushimi or Yamashina for better deals. They’re a bit further out, but your bank account will thank you.
For the daily grind, budget about 1,500-2,000 yen for meals. Groceries are your friend here – hit up local markets for the best deals and discounts before closing time. A 2,000 yen subway pass, good for unlimited rides for a week, makes traveling easy. Remember to budget for some fun money as well; 20,000 yen a month should be enough for your sake drinking and temple hopping. Aim for a monthly budget of roughly 200,000–250,000 yen overall.
4. Okinawa – Island Life
Imagine working with your toes in the sand, surrounded by turquoise waters and breeze in your hair – that’s Okinawa for you, where Japan meets tropical bliss.
Best Places for Work and Play
My top choice for daily hustle in Okinawa was the Startup Cafe Koza in Naha. The wi-fi is great, coffee flows endlessly and you’re gonna be surrounded by fellow digital nomads who might just become your new work buddies. If you wanna try to be a beach-and-laptop kind of worker (just be careful of sand getting into those ports!), hit up Araha Beach – there’s a cool open-air workspace right on the sand. Just fight the temptation to lie down and laze around because of the epic views!
Unwinding after work is oh so easy here. Grab a snorkel and dive into the underwater wonderland at Blue Cave – trust me, it’s like swimming in a screensaver. For a culture fix, Shuri Castle will knock your socks off. And when the sun sets? Make a beeline for Kokusai Dori in Naha. It’s party central with a side of delicious street food. Just remember, what happens on Kokusai Dori… well, you know the rest!
While in Okinawa, hit the beach! The surf scene is Japan is on the rise and Okinawa is the epicentre of it all. So take a surf lesson on your days off and learn a new fun skill!
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March to early May) features cherry blossoms, nice beach weather, and enough sunshine to power your laptop and your tan. It’s busy, sure, but not crazy-town like summer. Again, just watch out for the Golden Week at the end of April – unless you enjoy paying premium prices for the privilege of rubbing elbows with half of Japan. Summer (June to August) is for the ultimate beach lovers. It’s hot and humid, and there’s oddly a chance of a typhoon or two. But hey, if you can handle the weather, you’ll have some of the best beach days of your life. Plus, the Okinawa Ocean Expo in July might be something you’d enjoy.
Fall (late September to December), honestly, is an introvert’s dream. The crowds tend to disperse, prices drop, and the weather is just chef’s kiss. You can hop from the beach to a cafe without breaking a sweat. The Shuri Castle Festival in October is a must-see – nothing like watching a castle light up while you close the laptop. Now, I think winter (January to early March) is the underdog of Okinawa seasons. Yeah, it’s the coolest time of year, but we’re talking mid-60s F. You might catch some rain, but you’ll also catch whale watching season and the best deals of the year.
Local Eats
Let me tell you, Okinawan cuisine is a wild ride that’ll make your taste buds do a happy dance. I know it did mine! To be honest, the first time I tried goya champuru, I thought I was being punked – bitter melon in a stir-fry? But man, was I wrong. It’s now my go-to brain food for those long email answering sessions. Another ultimate favorite is rafute. This melt-in-your-mouth braised pork belly is so good, I once ate it five days in a row. No regrets!
Now, if you want a true-blue Okinawan experience, you’ve gotta try awamori with some umibudo (sea grapes). Just a word of warning though – go easy on the awamori if you’ve got morning Zoom calls. Trust me, I learned that lesson the hard way. For dessert, seek out some sata andagi. They are sweet deep fried buns of dough that have gone to flavor heaven. And if you need a quick energy boost, blue seal ice cream is your go-to. The sugar rush will get you through any deadline – trust.
A Digital Nomad’s Budget for Okinawa
Okinawa can be a wee bit pricier than mainland Japan, I’m gonna be honest – but still not as much as Tokyo. When I first moved here, I was so happy to find a cute apartment in Ginowan for about 70,000 yen a month. You can expect to pay anywhere from 60,000-100,000 yen for a decent place, depending on how close to the beach you want to be. Look in areas like Urasoe for better deals.
Now, for your daily expenses, budget around 2,000-2,500 yen for food. I usually mix it up between cooking (the markets here are amazing) and eating out. There’s this little family-run joint near Araha Beach where you can get a huge bowl of Okinawa soba for like 600 yen – it’s a usual go-to of nomads who love working by the sea. Transportation can be tricky – I’d recommend renting a scooter for about 20,000 yen a month. All in all, aim for a monthly budget of 250,000-300,000 yen. It’s a bit more than the mainland, but waking up to that ocean view? Priceless.
5. Fukuoka – The Secret Nomad Hot Spot
Picture this: you’re slurping down the best ramen of your life (I will argue about this!), your laptop open to a nearly-finished project, while the buzz of a modern city hums around you. Welcome to Fukuoka, Japan’s best-kept secret for digital nomads.
Best Places for Work and Play
For getting your work on, you’ve gotta check out Tsutaya Book Store in Tenjin. This is a chain book store found all over Japan, but it’s charming wherever you go. I once cranked out a project in there, fueled by their insanely good coffee and surrounded by enough books to make you feel smarter just by osmosis. If you’re more into the co-working scene, hit up Fukuoka Growth Next. It’s this cool startup hub in an old elementary school – I swear the innovative vibes seep into your work. Cafes are aplenty in Daimyo – I practically lived at Stereo Coffee for a week, alternating between working and people-watching.
We didn’t become digital nomads just to stare at screens, right? So when your work hours are up, Fukuoka’s got you covered. Ohori Park is my go-to for a quick nature fix between meetings. For beach bums, Momochi Seaside Park is where it’s at. Don’t miss out on the huge shaved ice by the beach! And when the sun sets? Make a beeline for the yatai food stalls along the Naka River.
Best Time to Visit
Sipping a steaming bowl of tonkotsu ramen, cherry blossoms dancing in the breeze outside – that’s Fukuoka in spring, my friend. From March to May, this place is just plain magic: perfect temperatures, minimal rain, and enough festivals to keep your calendar full. Now, if you’re more of a fall fanatic (hello fellow pumpkin spice addicts), September to November is ideal. The humidity takes a hike, leaving you with crisp air and stunning foliage. Plus, the Kyushu Basho sumo tournament rolls into town by November.
Summer (June to August) can be extremely hot, but don’t write it off completely. The Hakata Gion Yamakasa festival in July is quite an experience. If you can handle the chaos, it’s one heck of a cultural immersion! Winter is milder compared to other parts of Japan, but it can get chilly. Hit up the Fukuoka Castle ruins in late January for some epic illuminations.
Local Eats
My most favorite meal in the world is plentiful in Fukuoka: the tonkotsu ramen. This isn’t just soup, it’s a religious experience. It’s perfect to pair with some Hakata-style gyoza. This combination is so good, I’ve seriously considered setting up a permanent workstation in my favorite restaurant.
Now, let’s talk about mentaiko: spicy cod roe. And trust me, don’t knock it till you’ve tried it! I put that stuff on everything from pasta to onigiris. But the real game-changer? Motsunabe. It’s a scorching hot pot filled with beef intestines (stay with me here), veggies, and a savory miso broth. Sounds weird, tastes incredible.
A Digital Nomad’s Budget for Fukuoka
Fukuoka can be quite affordable compared to other Japanese cities. Accommodation ranges from $30 per night in budget hostels to $150 for more luxurious options. A meal at a mid-tier restaurant typically costs between $10 and $20. Overall, you can expect to spend around $50 to $100 per day, depending on your preferences.
Conclusion
We’ve just done a whirlwind tour of Japan’s digital nomad hotspots, but in all honesty – from neon-lit streets in Tokyo to the chill beaches in Okinawa, every spot has its own magic. But here’s the thing – the best spot for you? It’s wherever makes your digital nomad heart sing. Maybe it’ll be Tokyo with its endless energy that makes you fall in love, or Kyoto’s quiet temples steal your heart. Osaka may be your choice with its great food scene, while Fukuoka could just be that perfect balance of work and play. And who knows, these tropical vibes of Okinawa may just push you to extend that visa another time.
But remember, being a digital nomad in Japan isn’t just about sniffing out where the good Wi-Fi is (though that’s pretty up there). It’s the experience of immersing yourself in a culture that is foreign but extremely welcoming. So, whether you choose one of these spots or decide to carve out your own path, Japan is ready to be your home away from home!
Japan’s Top 5 Digital Nomad Spots FAQ
Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, Okinawa and Fukuoka are considered top choices due to their coworking spaces, reliable internet, and cultural experiences.
While Japan can be pricey, cities like Fukuoka and Okinawa offer more affordable living options. Balancing your budget is key, especially with accommodation and food. Another thing to consider it to budget in your travel insurance. Travel insurance companies like Safetywing are good to look into for good coverage and premiums.
Japan boasts some of the fastest internet speeds in the world, making it ideal for digital nomads. Most cafes and coworking spaces offer free Wi-Fi.
Japan doesn’t have a specific digital nomad visa, but you can stay up to 90 days on a tourist visa. For longer stays, look into work or student visas.
From traditional tea ceremonies in Kyoto to the busy nightlife of Tokyo, Japan offers a range of cultural experiences. In Kyoto you can even go to a traditional tea ceremony to have a unique cultural experience!
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