Places to Stay in Tokyo as a Digital Nomad

Tokyo blends futuristic tech with deep-rooted tradition, offering an exciting but complex environment for remote work. When exploring places to stay in Tokyo as a digital nomad, prioritize comfort, connectivity, and convenient access to transit.

According to Nomads.com, the average monthly cost of living for a single digital nomad in Tokyo is approximately $3,080 (USD) — covering rent, utilities, food, and coworking space. That makes choosing the right accommodation essential for balancing cost with convenience.

What digital nomads should look for when choosing a place to stay in Tokyo

When choosing a place to stay in Tokyo as a digital nomad, prioritize fast Wi-Fi, a comfortable workspace, transit access, flexible rental terms, and essential amenities that support both work and daily life.

• Fast, reliable Wi-Fi: Critical for remote work, especially when collaborating across time zones
• Comfortable workspace: A desk or table suitable for long hours of focused work
• Proximity to train/subway stations: Tokyo is vast, so transit access saves time and stress
• Flexible rental terms: Look for places offering short-term leases with easy extensions
• Practical amenities:  In-unit laundry, kitchen facilities, and soundproofing make daily life easier in a busy city

Pro Tip: Planning your stay around the right season can make a big difference. Here’s the best time to visit Japan for remote work and travel.

Types of accommodation options for digital nomads in Tokyo

There’s no one-size-fits-all setup in Tokyo, so here are a few options that reflect local living styles and work culture. If you're new to the country, exploring some fun facts about Japan can also give helpful context before settling in.

Coliving spaces

Popular with younger remote workers, Tokyo’s coliving setups often combine minimalist private rooms with well-maintained shared kitchens, tatami lounges, and on-site coworking areas. Community is emphasized, but respect for quiet and privacy is part of the culture.

Furnished short-term apartments

These compact units (often under 30 sqm) are efficient and fully stocked with essentials—washing machine, IH stove, Wi-Fi, and even slippers. They’re ideal for solo nomads who value independence and want a “real Tokyo” experience in residential neighborhoods.

Monthly Airbnbs or serviced apartments

Many offer discounted monthly rates and are found in quieter wards where you’ll be surrounded by convenience stores, local eateries, and vending machines on every corner. Space is limited, but amenities like deep tubs and heated toilet seats reflect Japan’s focus on comfort in small spaces.

Business hotels or hostels with workspaces

Business hotels in Tokyo are known for their high cleanliness standards, soundproof rooms, and fast Wi-Fi—even if the rooms are tiny. Some have coworking lounges or café areas ideal for working. Capsule hotels and hostels, while tight, are budget-friendly and often include common areas for remote work.

Tip: Some accommodations include free access to nearby coworking spaces or have partnerships with chains like WeWork or Regus. Always check what’s included before you book.

Best neighborhoods in Tokyo for digital nomads

If you're a digital nomad in Tokyo, the best neighborhoods combine reliable transit access, coworking-friendly spots, and flexible housing. 

Areas like Shibuya, Shinjuku, Shimokitazawa, Koenji, and Koto each offer a distinct balance of work convenience and local lifestyle, making them ideal home bases for remote workers.

1. Shibuya

 Known for its youthful energy and creative scene, Shibuya offers plenty of laptop-friendly cafés, coworking spaces, and quick access to major rail lines. It's ideal for digital nomads who want to be in the center of Tokyo’s tech-savvy and trend-forward atmosphere.

2. Shinjuku

As one of Tokyo’s busiest transport hubs, Shinjuku provides unmatched connectivity across the city. It’s packed with business hotels, serviced apartments, and after-hours spots, making it a practical and lively base for working nomads.

3. Shimokitazawa

With its indie cafés, music venues, and slower pace, Shimokitazawa appeals to creatives who prefer a relaxed setting. You’ll still find reliable Wi-Fi and coworking spots, just without the high-rush energy of central Tokyo.

4. Koto / Odaiba

These modern waterfront areas feature spacious layouts, newer buildings, and growing coliving options with amenities for remote work. They’re ideal if you want quiet surroundings, reliable infrastructure, and proximity to Tokyo’s business districts.

5. Koenji

Koenji blends local charm with an artsy, alternative vibe, making it a favorite among freelancers and digital nomads on a budget. It’s home to vintage shops, live music, and affordable rentals while still being a quick train ride from central Tokyo.

Final tips for finding the right place in Tokyo as a digital nomad

Before you commit to a stay, keep these points in mind:

• Double-check Wi-Fi speeds and workspace photos to make sure the setup supports your workflow
• Start with a short-term stay to test out the area before locking into a longer lease
• Consider access to 24-hour convenience stores and affordable eateries, staples of nomad life in Tokyo
• Look for nearby parks, riversides, or quiet temples to take breaks and recharge from the fast city pace
• Bring the correct power adapter. Japan uses Type A and Type B plug types, and the voltage is 100V, which may differ from your home country’s standards.

Traveling to Japan and need to stay connected? Explore these eSIM providers

Choosing the right eSIM in Japan can make your trip smoother—especially when juggling tight train schedules, remote meetings, and language barriers.

Provider		Price (USD)	Data Allowance	Validity	Notable Features
Holafly		$74.90	Unlimited	30 days	Easy activation, unlimited data, 24/7 support
Airalo		$26	20 GB	30 days	Affordable short-term plans, app-based activation
Ubigi		$69	Unlimited	30 days	Compatible with eSIM iPads, supports data tethering

For digital nomads who prioritize ease of use and dependable support, Holafly stands out. 

While both Holafly and Ubigi offer unlimited data, Holafly’s hassle-free setup and responsive 24/7 customer service make it a strong option for travelers who want reliable connectivity without complications.

Airalo, meanwhile, is a solid choice for budget-conscious travelers who only need a limited data plan and prefer app-based activation.

Places to Stay in Tokyo as a Digital Nomad FAQs

1. Where is the best place for digital nomads in Japan?

Tokyo is the top choice for digital nomads thanks to its fast internet, reliable public transport, and abundance of coworking spaces. Cities like Osaka and Fukuoka are also growing hubs with a lower cost of living and laid-back pace.

2. What are the best areas to stay in Tokyo?

Shibuya, Shinjuku, Shimokitazawa, Koenji, and Koto/Odaiba are ideal for digital nomads due to their coworking access, rental variety, and convenience to transit. Each offers a distinct vibe—from creative and bohemian to sleek and business-friendly.

3. Is Tokyo good for digital nomads?

Yes, Tokyo is excellent for digital nomads who thrive in a fast-paced, well-connected environment. The city offers top-tier infrastructure, short-term rental options, and a growing remote work culture.

4. How do digital nomads find short-term housing in Tokyo?

Digital nomads often use platforms like Unito, Monthly Stay Japan, or coliving operators like HafH and The Stay Tokyo to book furnished rentals with flexible terms. These options typically include Wi-Fi, utilities, and basic amenities ideal for remote work.

5. Can foreigners rent apartments in Tokyo easily?

Yes, but some traditional landlords may require a guarantor or longer lease. Coliving spaces, serviced apartments, and Airbnb rentals offer more flexible terms for foreign digital nomads.