How to Work Remotely in Tokyo as a Foreigner

A Comprehensive Guide for Digital Nomads, Freelancers, and Remote Employees

Tokyo is not only Japan’s economic powerhouse, but it’s increasingly becoming a global magnet for digital nomads and remote workers. With its ultra-fast internet, efficient public transport, exceptional safety, and unique blend of tradition and innovation, Tokyo is far more remote-work-friendly than many might assume—if you know how to navigate it.

Whether you’re a freelancer working for overseas clients, a full-time employee doing your job remotely, or an entrepreneur running a business from your laptop, Tokyo offers a vibrant, structured, and surprisingly welcoming ecosystem for remote work. But there are nuances—legal, cultural, and practical—that you’ll need to understand to make the most of your time here.

This guide is your complete resource to working remotely in Tokyo as a foreigner. We’ll explore visa options, neighborhoods, coworking spaces, internet connectivity, housing, and daily life, as well as local etiquette and survival tips for thriving in one of the world’s most dynamic cities.

1. Can You Legally Work Remotely in Japan?

Visa Requirements for Remote Work

Japan is a country of rules and precise systems—and immigration is no exception. If you’re planning to stay in Tokyo for an extended period and work remotely, understanding your visa options is crucial.

Unlike some countries that have launched official “Digital Nomad Visas,” Japan has no such category (as of 2025). This means that technically, working while residing in Japan—even for a foreign company—may not fall within the bounds of tourist or temporary visit visas.

Here’s a breakdown of the current visa landscape:

❌ Tourist Visa

• Duration: Usually 90 days (shorter for some nationalities)

• Work status: No work permitted

• Risk: Even working for a company based outside Japan (e.g., remote freelance) violates terms

• Reality: Common, but legally gray. Many remote workers “quietly” operate on tourist visas, but this is risky—especially at reentry

✅ Working Visa

• For whom: Employees of companies based in Japan

• Drawback: Requires sponsorship from a Japanese entity, not suitable for remote work for foreign companies or freelancing

✅ Business Manager Visa

• For entrepreneurs setting up business entities in Japan

• Requires: A business plan, office space, investment capital

• Used by: High-level freelancers who want to base themselves in Japan and formalize operations

✅ Self-Sponsored or Highly Skilled Professional (HSP) Visa

• For: Professionals with specific qualifications, income level, or skills

• Pros: More flexibility, possibility of permanent residency in the long term

• Cons: Complex paperwork, requires legal assistance

✅ Student or Spouse Visa

• Allows: Limited part-time work (with permission)

• Not suitable for most full-time remote professionals, but can supplement your stay

Pro Tip:

If you’re serious about making Japan your base, consult a Japanese immigration lawyer or a specialist agency. Some even offer services in English and can help structure your business or freelance career to comply with immigration law.

Also, keep an eye on changes—Japan is under pressure to modernize its immigration policies, and discussions around digital nomad visas have surfaced occasionally.

2. Best Neighborhoods in Tokyo for Remote Workers

Tokyo is a sprawling city with 23 special wards, each with its own distinct character. Your experience as a remote worker will heavily depend on where you stay. Do you need fast access to coworking spaces? Do you want a quiet environment for focus? Or are you chasing the creative energy of Tokyo’s startup scene?

Here are some of the top neighborhoods for remote workers in Tokyo—each offering its own unique balance of accessibility, amenities, atmosphere, and affordability.

Top Neighborhoods to Consider:

Other Honorable Mentions:

• Ebisu: Balanced, mid-range prices, great food and access

• Shimokitazawa: Tokyo’s bohemian heart, perfect for creative types

• Ikebukuro: More budget-friendly, with good train access

• Meguro: Quiet, residential, great for long-term stays

• Odaiba: Scenic bay views, ideal if you prefer peace and tech

Factors to Consider When Choosing:

• Proximity to Train Lines: Tokyo’s train network is world-class, but long transfers and transfers between lines can eat into your day.

• Coworking Options Nearby: Some neighborhoods have dozens; others have very few.

• Language Accessibility: Not all areas have English-friendly shops, clinics, or services.

• Vibe: Urban vs creative, quiet vs energetic—choose what matches your workflow style.

3. Coworking Spaces in Tokyo

If you don’t want to work from a tiny Tokyo apartment, or you’re tired of balancing your laptop on a coffee shop table with limited power outlets, coworking spaces are your best bet. Tokyo is teeming with a diverse range of workspaces—from sleek, corporate-style setups to creative, indie-focused collectives.

These environments offer much more than just a desk. Many spaces include:

• High-speed internet

• Private phone booths

• Free drinks (coffee, tea)

• Community events and networking

• Printing/scanning services

• Bilingual staff

‍ Popular Coworking Spaces in Tokyo

WeWork (Multiple Locations)

• Internationally known brand with multiple branches in Shibuya, Roppongi, Ginza, and more.

• Excellent English support, sleek interiors, 24/7 access for members.

• Popular among startups and international professionals.

• Downside: Pricey, competitive vibe.

Regus

• Offers both coworking areas and serviced private offices.

• Locations in almost every major Tokyo district.

• Good for professionals needing meeting rooms or quiet.

• Tip: Look into flexible plans for part-time use.

Blink (Minato-ku)

• Modern design with an artsy vibe.

• Popular among creative professionals and tech workers.

• In-house cafe and rooftop terrace are nice perks.

• Hosts networking events and art exhibitions.

Nagatacho GRID

• Social enterprise vibe with mission-driven events and startups.

• Focus on sustainability, diversity, and collaboration.

• Offers daily passes and flexible drop-ins.

• Located near government and startup circles.

Co-ba Shibuya

• Hip and community-oriented.

• Strong in design, fashion, and freelance sectors.

• Co-ba also has locations in other Japanese cities if you plan to travel.

Creative Lounge MOV (Shibuya Hikarie)

• Chic, design-focused space within a fashionable department store.

• More relaxed than WeWork, but offers excellent facilities.

Fabbit (Various Locations)

• Startup-friendly, reasonably priced, and open to foreigners.

• Some locations even offer support for entrepreneurship visas.

Cost & Access

• Daily Passes:
  ¥1,500–¥3,500 (~$10–$25 USD)

• Monthly Memberships:
  ¥20,000–¥50,000 (~$130–$350 USD) depending on location and plan

• Private Desks / Offices:
  ¥70,000–¥200,000+ (~$450–$1,500 USD)

Many spaces offer free trial days, discounted student rates, or “drop-in only” options.

Pro Tips:

• Always check if reservation is required—some spaces are full by 10am.

• Try working from multiple spots before committing to a monthly plan.

• Join events or happy hours to meet locals and fellow digital nomads.

4. Internet & Connectivity

Japan is a paradise for remote work when it comes to internet quality. Tokyo boasts some of the fastest, most reliable broadband in the world, with fiber-optic speeds of 1Gbps+ being common even in small apartments.

Still, for remote workers on the move, flexibility is key. Here’s how to stay connected anywhere, anytime.

Mobile SIM Cards

• Sakura Mobile: Most popular among foreigners. English support, eSIM available, and flexible contracts.

• Mobal: No residence card required. Unlimited data plans. Great for long-term visitors.

• IIJmio / B-Mobile / UQ Mobile: Local providers with competitive pricing, but Japanese only.

Most SIMs are data-only, so if you need a local number for verification, check support for SMS/calling.

Pocket WiFi

Portable, battery-powered routers perfect for those without a fixed address.

• Ninja WiFi: Airport pickup, unlimited plans, English support.

• Japan Wireless: Home delivery, flexible rental periods.

• Sakura Mobile: Also offers pocket WiFi in addition to SIMs.

Battery life usually lasts 9–12 hours. Rent an external power bank for all-day mobility.

Free WiFi

While Tokyo offers free WiFi in many locations, it’s not as widespread or stable as you’d expect in cafes abroad.

• Good Free Spots:
  Starbucks, Tully’s Coffee, 7-Eleven, Lawson, Don Quijote

• Bad Free Spots:
  Parks, stations, and restaurants often require Japanese email/SMS verification and time limits

Pro Tips:

• Bring a backup: dual SIM phone, or combo of SIM + pocket WiFi

• Don’t rely on hotel or AirBnB WiFi for important meetings

• For stable Zoom calls or uploads, test speed using fast.com or speedtest.net

5. Where to Live: Short & Long-Term Housing

Housing in Tokyo ranges from micro-studios to shared guesthouses and serviced apartments. If you’re staying more than a few weeks, picking the right living situation will make or break your remote work routine.

Short-Term (1 week to 3 months)

Airbnb

• Still widely available in Tokyo, though regulated (check licensing)

• Expect higher prices in tourist-heavy areas

• Some units now tailored for digital nomads (desk, monitors)

Monthly Apartments

• Sakura House: Foreigners welcome, no deposit, furnished.

• Oakhouse: Offers both share houses and private rooms. Strong community feel.

• Monthly Mansion Japan: Ideal for professionals. Often in business districts.

Documents: Passport, emergency contact, and sometimes visa copy

Long-Term (3+ months)

GaijinPot Housing

• Tailored for foreigners, no guarantor required.

• Listings in English, and customer support is responsive.

• Apartments often near train lines and furnished.

Leo Palace 21 & UR Housing

• Pre-furnished rooms with short paperwork process.

• No key money or agent fees in many cases.

• UR is government-backed, but requires some Japanese skills or agent help.

Real Estate Agents for Expats

• Tokyo Apartments, Ken Corporation, Plaza Homes

• Bilingual staff, upscale listings, great for longer stays or families

Housing Tips for Remote Workers

• Look for listings that mention:

  • High-speed fiber optic internet

  • Desk + office chair

  • 24-hour access / keyless entry

• Avoid basements or old “mansion” style units with poor WiFi

• Check noise levels (some older buildings have thin walls)

• Always check commute time to your favorite coworking space

6. Banking, Payments & Daily Life

Japan is modern in many ways—but when it comes to money, it’s a fascinating mix of futuristic systems and old-school habits. As a remote worker, setting up convenient payment methods and understanding how money moves in Japan will save you frustration.

Accessing Money

ATM Access

• Best ATM for Foreign Cards:

  • 7-Bank (at 7-Eleven) – English menus, accepts Visa/Mastercard/JCB

  • Japan Post Bank (Yucho) – Widely available in rural and urban areas

  • Lawson Bank / Aeon Bank – Fewer options but generally reliable

Your foreign bank card will likely incur ¥100–¥300 (~$2) per withdrawal.

Credit & Debit Card Usage

While cash still dominates, especially in smaller shops, the trend is shifting:

Bring two cards (Visa + Mastercard) as some terminals reject certain networks.

Japanese Payment Apps & IC Cards

If you’ll be in Tokyo for more than a few weeks, using local payment systems will make your life easier.

IC Cards:

• Suica / Pasmo: Rechargeable cards for train rides and small purchases (coffee, bento, even vending machines)

• Works via tap, like Apple Pay or Google Pay

• Also usable at convenience stores, Uniqlo, and some taxis

QR Code Payment Apps:

• PayPay (most popular)

• LINE Pay

• Rakuten Pay

• Often run cashback promotions

You can connect IC cards to Apple Wallet or use them directly via phone (iPhone/Android compatibility varies by model and region).

7. Time Zones and Work-Life Balance

One unique challenge of working remotely from Japan is the time zone difference—especially if your employer or clients are based in North America or Europe.

Major Time Differences (from Tokyo)

⏰ Practical Scheduling Tips

• North America team? Start early. Many nomads begin work at 6–7 AM JST, finishing by 2–3 PM.

• European clients? Late afternoon to evening hours (3–10 PM JST) work best.

• Use time zone tools like World Time Buddy or Timezone.io to coordinate meetings.

• Take advantage of the quiet morning or late-night hours for deep work sessions.

Consider splitting your day: work early mornings + evenings, and enjoy the city midday.

Work-Life Balance in Tokyo

• Gyms: Anytime Fitness (24h), Tipness, Gold’s Gym

• Onsen & Sento: Try an evening soak after work—Shimizuyu (Omotesando), Oedo Onsen Monogatari

• Green escapes: Shinjuku Gyoen, Yoyogi Park, Todoroki Valley

• Cafes with WiFi: Streamer Coffee, Blue Bottle, Lattest

Remote work in Tokyo doesn’t mean you’re confined to a screen all day. Schedule your errands, workouts, or exploration around your meetings. You’re in one of the most dynamic cities on earth—make the most of it!

8. Taxes and Legal Considerations

⚖️ Do You Have to Pay Taxes in Japan as a Remote Worker?

It depends on how long you stay and what visa you’re on.

What Counts as “Income” in Japan?

Japan taxes global income for tax residents. If you’re here long enough or apply for a business visa, you’ll need to file:

• Self-employment income (freelance clients)

• Foreign-sourced salary

• Passive income (dividends, capital gains)

If you’re already taxed in another country, check for double taxation agreements (DTAs) with Japan. (E.g., U.S., Canada, UK)

‍ Should You Register as a Freelancer or Company?

Some foreigners choose to register a sole proprietorship (kojin jigyo) or a kabushiki kaisha (KK) company if they plan to stay long-term.

Benefits:

• Eligible for Business Manager Visa

• Can open a Japanese business bank account

• Professional legitimacy when dealing with Japanese clients

Consult a bilingual tax accountant (zeirishi) for personalized advice. Sites like Shikkou.com and SMEJapan.com are a good starting point.

9. Language and Cultural Tips

Japanese Language

Do you need to speak Japanese? No—but it helps. Here’s how to survive (and thrive) with basic skills.

Useful Phrases:

• “Sumimasen” (Excuse me / Sorry)

• “Eigo o hanasemasu ka?” (Do you speak English?)

• “Kore wa ikura desu ka?” (How much is this?)

• “Daijoubu” (It’s okay / I’m fine)

• “Arigatou gozaimasu” (Thank you)

Translation & Learning Tools:

• Google Translate (with camera mode)

• Yomiwa (kanji scanner)

• Tandem / HelloTalk – For chatting with locals

• Pimsleur / Duolingo – Audio-based learning

Cultural Etiquette to Know

• Punctuality is sacred. Always arrive on time.

• Silence on trains is expected—no calls or loud talking.

• Shoes off when entering homes or some coworking lounges.

• Cash handing: Always use the tray, never hand bills directly.

Respect and subtlety are key. A little politeness goes a long way in Japan.

10. Final Thoughts

Tokyo is often seen as fast, expensive, and overwhelming—but for remote workers, it’s surprisingly livable. With the right visa strategy, tech tools, and housing choice, you can work efficiently and enjoy the rich culture, safety, and endless opportunities of life in Japan.

Whether you stay for 3 weeks or 3 years, Tokyo rewards the curious and the prepared.

So plug in your laptop, load your Suica card, and let Tokyo become your new home office.