Become a digital nomad in Japan
One of the world's most contradictory and enigmatic countries, Japan is where the ancient and the modern not only meet, but they intertwine and blend into a truly unique concoction. Home to some of the latest scientific advances, multinational tech corporations and blossoming sakura gardens, “The Land of the Rising Sun” is a mystery any nomad would be lucky to explore.
Why Japan
Some of the things that most remote workers and digital nomads are after is high-speed Internet and access to the latest technology to enable efficient communication. Japan is the mecca when it comes new tech: from attending exhibitions to participating in startup meet-ups, here you will be able to stay up-to-date with the latest trends in electronics, telecommunications, digital advances, and more.
Another factor that attracts travelers and working nomads to Japan is that this Asian country offers top-notch living standards, great food, and convenient infrastructure on par with European countries. That being said, however, Japan is strikingly different from the rest of the world and its amicable quirkiness allows its guests to expand their horizons every day.
Best cities to work from
Tokyo is the capital of Japan and the best place from which to start exploring the country. Get ready for some hustle and bustle: Tokyo is one of the most populated cities in the world with over 13 million people living in the city alone, and over 37 million inhabiting the Greater Tokyo area. This exciting city is as eclectic as Japan itself and you will see sky-touching buildings housing the country's tech giants right next to traditional buildings and old narrow streets.
Osaka is the third largest city in Japan and has its own unique character. Historically inhabited primarily by merchants, the city has preserved its commercial vibe. In Osaka you will get instantly caught up in the non-stop but pleasant rush interrupted by bursts of kuidaore feasts ' 'eat until you drop'.
While Tokyo and Osaka let you explore different sides of urban Japan, Okinawa is a great introduction to the country's diverse natural beauty. The narrow strip combines 160 islands (111 of which are inhabited),and is one of the most popular tourist destinations for travellers.
The internet and coworking spaces
The average download speed in Japan is around 18.2 Mbps with most cities being equipped with high-speed fiber internet. Japan has an even better performance in store ' it is one of the countries working on the unbeatably fast 100 Gbps.
Not long ago, coworking spaces were almost inexistent in the country. However, as it often is in Asia, once the trend for shared offices appeared, it has been growing exponentially. Today you should not have any trouble finding a desk in a shared office in any of the big cities.
Coworking spaces in Tokyo
Compass Offices Compass HABITAT, Level 2-9, MG Meguro Ekimae Building, 2-15-19 Kamiosaki, Shinagawa-ku
The Snack, 2F, Mori bldg, 7-5-4, Ginza, Chuo-ku
Coworking spaces in Osaka
Osakan Space, 3 Chome-6-2 Bingomachi, Chuo Ward
iMedio, 2 Chome-1-10 NankÅkita, Suminoe-ku
Leisure in Japan
Japan is one of those countries that has something for everyone. Whether you want to explore old Japan and see the historic temple of Kiyomizu-dera, the 17th century Himeji Castle, visit the Tokyo Imperial Palace, discover the country's mesmerizing natural beauty by travelling to the iconic Mount Fuji, see the green gardens of Shinjuku Gyoen, or stroll through its urban jungle and visit one of its many amusement parks, you are sure to find something to keep you entertained.
What to know before arriving
Citizens of 68 countries can travel to Japan visa-free for varied periods of time, ranging from 15 days to 6 months depending on your country of origin. If you do not come from one of the visa-exempt countries, you will need to apply for a visa to Japan in advance at one of its diplomatic missions.
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