Tokyo Apartments for Digital Nomads

Where to live, how to find a place, and what to expect in Japan’s capital

Tokyo is a dream destination for many digital nomads. With its ultra-fast internet, world-class infrastructure, low crime rate, and endless culture and cuisine, Japan’s capital offers the perfect mix of adventure and productivity.

But if you’re planning to stay longer than a few weeks, finding the right apartment can make or break your experience. From fully furnished micro-apartments to long-stay share houses and serviced studios, Tokyo has plenty of options—as long as you know where to look.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to find the best apartment as a digital nomad in Tokyo, including key neighborhoods, rental platforms, average costs, and insider tips.

What Makes Tokyo Great for Digital Nomads?

• High-speed internet in nearly every apartment and cafe

• Extremely safe, even for solo travelers at night

• Convenient transport, with trains connecting every corner of the city

• Access to affordable food, vending machines, and 24/7 stores

• A blend of traditional temples and futuristic skylines

Whether you want to base yourself in a quiet residential area or be in the center of the neon-lit action, Tokyo offers flexibility for every work-life balance.

Apartment Types for Nomads

1. Short-Term Furnished Apartments

For digital nomads staying in Tokyo for 1 to 6 months, short-term furnished apartments offer the ideal blend of privacy, comfort, and flexibility. These units are typically move-in ready, eliminating the need to buy furniture, install utilities, or navigate Japanese bureaucracy.

What’s Included?

Most short-term furnished apartments come with:

• WiFi and LAN internet (sometimes pocket WiFi)

• Air conditioning/heating unit (essential in Tokyo’s summer and winter)

• Kitchen appliances: microwave, stove, fridge, kettle

• Cooking utensils: pans, plates, cutlery

• Basic furniture: bed, desk, chair, closet

• Bedding and towels (though quality varies)

• Washing machine (some units have dryers, or shared laundry)

All utilities (water, gas, electricity) are often included in the monthly rent, which means no setup or hidden fees.

Who is it for?

• Freelancers and digital nomads on medium-length stays

• Business travelers relocating temporarily

• Remote workers who prefer a quiet, independent lifestyle

• Couples or solo travelers who want a “home base” in Tokyo

Providers & Platforms

• Sakura House: One of the most foreigner-friendly rental services in Japan. No key money or guarantor required.

• MetroResidences: Stylish, business-class units in central areas like Roppongi or Akasaka.

• Monthly Resi-Stay: Good selection of budget and mid-range apartments.

• Tokyo Monthly 21, Stay Japan, LeoPalace (some English support)

Pricing

• Central Tokyo studios: ¥130,000–¥180,000/month

• Suburban or compact units: ¥90,000–¥120,000/month

• Discounts often available for 2+ month stays

• Some require a cleaning fee (¥10,000–¥30,000 one-time)

✅ Pros

• No need for a guarantor or Japanese bank account

• Booking and communication available in English

• You can reserve online before arriving in Japan

• Ideal for digital nomads who don’t want to deal with paperwork

⚠️ Cons

• Can be 20–40% more expensive than regular local leases

• Some units may feel generic or small

• Fewer opportunities to meet other nomads or locals

• Cancellation fees may apply depending on the contract

Pro tip: Always check the location on Google Maps. Some “Tokyo” listings may actually be in Saitama or Chiba.

2. Share Houses (Coliving)

Share houses—sometimes called coliving spaces—are one of the most popular options for digital nomads seeking affordability and community in Tokyo. In a city where private apartments can be isolating, share houses offer an instant network and social support.

What’s a Share House?

You’ll typically have:

• Private bedroom (furnished with bed, desk, storage)

• Shared kitchen, lounge, and sometimes bathroom

• Access to WiFi, laundry, and basic amenities

• Weekly or monthly cleaning services (varies by house)

Some larger share houses have:

• Coworking rooms

• Yoga or gym studios

• Outdoor terraces

• Game rooms or theater spaces

Who Lives in Share Houses?

• International students and working holiday travelers

• Remote workers, startup employees, and creatives

• Japanese locals who want to practice English or live in diverse communities

• Couples (in some cases) or solo travelers looking to socialize

Recommended Providers

• Oakhouse: The biggest and most foreigner-friendly operator in Japan. Offers both social and quiet houses.

• Borderless House: Emphasizes cultural exchange; 50% Japanese, 50% foreigners in each house.

• Tokyo Sharehouse: A curated list of properties with photos, ratings, and reviews.

Pricing

• Private room: ¥60,000–¥90,000/month (in suburbs), ¥90,000–¥120,000/month (central)

• Shared room/dorm style: From ¥40,000/month (rare but available)

• Initial move-in fee: ¥20,000–¥50,000 (cleaning & key deposit)

✅ Pros

• Much cheaper than private apartments

• No need for a guarantor, key money, or agent fees

• Easy to meet locals and other travelers

• Many houses host parties, language exchanges, and events

⚠️ Cons

• Limited privacy—especially in shared kitchens and bathrooms

• Noise levels can vary depending on housemates

• Some houses have strict rules (no guests, no alcohol, curfews)

• Not ideal for remote work if no dedicated desk space is provided

Pro tip: Choose houses with separate workspaces or ask about WiFi speed and layout before booking.

3. Serviced Apartments

Serviced apartments are the luxury tier of short-to-mid-term living in Tokyo—blending the best of hotels and furnished apartments. They are ideal for digital nomads who value comfort, convenience, and minimal hassle, particularly those staying 1–3 months or traveling for business.

What’s Included?

Serviced apartments usually come with:

• Full-size kitchen or kitchenette (stove, fridge, microwave, cookware)

• High-speed internet (LAN & WiFi, often business-grade)

• Weekly housekeeping with linen change and cleaning

• 24/7 concierge or front desk

• Utilities included (no contracts for gas/electricity needed)

• Optional amenities: gym, meeting rooms, restaurant, laundry service

Many properties offer monthly or weekly contracts, often with hotel-level customer service.

‍ Who is it for?

• Remote workers or consultants on corporate assignments

• Entrepreneurs hosting clients or partners in Tokyo

• Couples or solo travelers seeking a hotel feel with homelike flexibility

• First-time visitors who want centrality and comfort

Top Serviced Apartment Brands in Tokyo

• Ascott Marunouchi Tokyo: 5-star luxury apartments near Tokyo Station, with gym, lounge, and bilingual staff

• Tokyu Stay (multiple locations): Mid-range extended-stay hotels with kitchenettes and washers in-room

• Citadines Shinjuku / Central Shibuya: Comfortable, globally recognized serviced residences

• Fraser Suites Akasaka: Stylish, high-end units with long-stay discounts

Pricing

• Mid-range options (Tokyu Stay, Citadines): ¥200,000–¥300,000/month

• Luxury options (Ascott, Fraser): ¥350,000–¥600,000/month

• Often priced per night (¥10,000–¥20,000), but monthly discounts available

• Some providers charge move-out cleaning fees or taxes separately

✅ Pros

• No setup needed—ideal for quick arrivals or jetlagged workers

• Excellent for those who need reliable internet, security, and quiet

• Multilingual support is standard

• Great for hosting business meetings or video calls

⚠️ Cons

• Expensive compared to other options (especially for solo travelers)

• Limited availability in popular areas—book early

• Not always part of Tokyo’s local community (can feel isolated)

Pro tip: Use serviced apartments for your first month in Tokyo, then transition to a share house or studio once you know your preferred neighborhood.

4. Airbnb & Vacation Rentals

Despite increased regulation, Airbnb is still a viable and flexible option for digital nomads visiting Tokyo. The key is to book licensed listings that comply with Japanese law.

Since Tokyo’s housing laws were updated in 2018, only properties registered with the Japanese government can legally operate as short-term rentals. However, many Airbnb hosts have adapted by offering 30+ day stays that are considered legal under monthly leasing rules.

What You Get

Airbnb units in Tokyo range from:

• Tiny studio apartments in Shinjuku or Asakusa

• Family-size houses in quieter districts like Setagaya or Nerima

• Designer-themed flats in hip areas like Nakameguro or Shimokitazawa

• Traditional tatami-style homes for cultural immersion

Listings often include:

• WiFi (pocket WiFi or fiber-optic internet)

• Fully equipped kitchen and laundry

• Self check-in

• Flexible cancellation policies

• Neighborhood-specific experience

‍ Who is it for?

• Digital nomads staying under 30 days who want a private space

• Small teams or couples wanting an independent base

• Travelers who prioritize location over long-term contracts

Pricing

• ¥3,000–¥10,000 per night (varies by location and season)

• Monthly stays often discounted 20–50%

• Cleaning fees: typically ¥5,000–¥15,000 (flat rate)

• Some hosts charge extra guest fees or utility surcharges

✅ Pros

• Wide range of neighborhoods to choose from

• Great for “test-driving” a Tokyo lifestyle before committing to a lease

• No paperwork or Japanese language required

• Easy to book remotely from overseas

⚠️ Cons

• Can be expensive for stays longer than 2–3 weeks

• Limited support: you’re on your own if appliances break

• Not all listings are accurately represented (always check reviews!)

• Some properties may have early curfews or strict trash rules

Pro tip: Use filters like “30+ nights” and “WiFi” to find remote work-friendly stays. Look for reviews that mention quietness, natural light, and desk space.

Best Neighborhoods for Digital Nomads in Tokyo

Tokyo is a city of contrasts: modern and traditional, fast-paced and serene. Choosing the right neighborhood can dramatically shape your daily routine, work-life balance, and social experience. Here’s a deeper look at some of the most nomad-friendly areas, each offering a unique vibe and lifestyle.

Shibuya / Harajuku

If Tokyo had a beating heart, it would be Shibuya. Known for its youth culture, fashion, music, and energy, Shibuya and neighboring Harajuku are ideal for creative professionals, digital artists, YouTubers, and startup founders.

• Why it’s great: Tons of coworking spaces (e.g., MOV, The Hive), cafés with WiFi, 24/7 convenience

• Nightlife & networking: Bars, rooftop meetups, creator communities

• Amenities: Great gyms, stylish boutiques, and easy access to JR Yamanote Line

• Downside: Can be noisy, crowded, and expensive for long-term rentals

Pro tip: Stay just outside Shibuya (like Yoyogi or Ebisu) to get the vibe without the chaos.

Shinjuku

A major commercial and transportation hub, Shinjuku is more affordable than its reputation suggests, especially for solo travelers and working professionals. It also offers a huge range of budget eateries, share houses, and serviced apartments.

• Why it’s great: Excellent train access (Shinjuku Station = world’s busiest), tons of coworking and capsule hotels

• Ideal for: Freelancers, corporate nomads, anyone who wants to be in the center of everything

• Nightlife: Golden Gai and Kabukicho offer wild nights, but west Shinjuku is calm and business-friendly

Pro tip: West side = office district (quiet), East side = nightlife (loud). Choose wisely.

Nakameguro / Daikanyama

These adjacent neighborhoods are laid-back, aesthetic, and filled with stylish cafes. They’re popular among expats, couples, and nomads who value quality of life, design, and slower rhythms.

• Why it’s great: Walkable streets, riverside views, independent bookstores and bakeries

• Ideal for: Designers, writers, entrepreneurs, and those looking to recharge

• Downside: Limited coworking, higher rent than average for its size

Pro tip: Try short stays in this area while working from home or using mobile coworking spots (like cafes).

Ikebukuro / Sugamo

Ikebukuro is a major commuter hub with surprisingly good deals on housing. Sugamo, often called “Grandma’s Harajuku,” is quieter but very livable. Both are well connected and have a more local vibe.

• Why it’s great: Budget-friendly, large variety of share houses and small apartments

• Ideal for: Budget travelers, students, first-time Tokyo residents

• Vibe: Less touristy, more “real” Tokyo—great food, hidden temples, quiet side streets

Pro tip: North of Ikebukuro offers larger rooms at cheaper rates than central Shinjuku.

Kanda / Ochanomizu

This lesser-known area near Tokyo Station and Akihabara is perfect for academic, tech, or business-minded nomads. It’s also close to several universities and has strong WiFi infrastructure.

• Why it’s great: Tech shops, stationery stores, coworking options like Basis Point and LIFORK

• Ideal for: Engineers, business consultants, students on exchange

• Atmosphere: Quiet on weekends, active on weekdays, very central

Pro tip: This area gives you access to both the modern and historical side of Tokyo in walking distance.

How Much Does It Cost to Live in Tokyo as a Digital Nomad?

Here’s a detailed breakdown of monthly housing costs for nomads, depending on the style of accommodation and location. Keep in mind that prices vary by season (especially spring and autumn) and proximity to major train stations.

Notes & Tips:

• Deposit: Traditional leases often require 2–3 months’ deposit, key money, and agency fees

• Nomad-friendly providers (e.g., Sakura House, Oakhouse) skip most of that bureaucracy

• Shared spaces save money, but sacrifice privacy and sometimes speed if WiFi is shared

• Longer stays (3+ months) often qualify for rental discounts or bonus services

Pro tip: If your stay is under 90 days, avoid contracts with renewal fees or cancellation penalties. Flexibility is your best friend.

Where to Search for Apartments in Tokyo

Finding the right apartment in Tokyo can be overwhelming—but thanks to a growing number of foreigner-friendly platforms, it’s easier than ever for digital nomads to find a home base that suits their budget, style, and visa status.

Here’s a deeper look at some of the most reliable and useful housing platforms:

Sakura House

https://www.sakura-house.com

• Offers furnished apartments, share houses, and dormitories across Tokyo

• Entirely designed for foreigners—no guarantor, no Japanese bank account required

• Minimum stay: 1 week to 1+ year

• Staff speak multiple languages (English, French, Chinese, Korean, etc.)

• Good for: First-timers, short-term visitors, and students

Oakhouse

https://www.oakhouse.jp

• Specializes in share houses and coliving communities

• Offers both social and “private-focused” properties

• Great search filters: private rooms, workspaces, female-only, etc.

• Includes community events and online message boards

• Good for: Budget-conscious nomads, remote workers who want community

MetroResidences

https://www.metroresidences.com

• Stylish, fully furnished serviced apartments

• Tailored to business travelers and corporate remote workers

• Easy booking platform with transparent pricing and photos

• Often located in central business areas like Roppongi, Shinagawa

• Good for: Professionals, digital teams, and short-term corporate stays

Tokyo Apartments

https://www.tokyoapartments.jp

• Targets expats and long-term foreign residents

• Offers more traditional rental properties (1–2 year leases)

• Requires some documentation (visa, income, ID)

• May involve key money and deposits

• Good for: Nomads becoming long-term residents

GaijinPot Housing

https://housing.gaijinpot.com

• One of the most comprehensive English-language housing sites in Japan

• Aggregates listings from agencies, private landlords, and share houses

• Clear indicators for: no key money, English support, furnished/unfurnished

• Also includes visa info, area guides, and cultural tips

• Good for: Anyone who wants to compare many housing types in one place

Airbnb Japan

https://www.airbnb.com/s/Tokyo–Japan

• Still widely used despite stricter regulation

• Many listings offer monthly stay discounts (30–50%)

• Easy for remote booking and payment in your home currency

• Strong community review system

• Good for: Digital nomads staying < 90 days, or those testing neighborhoods before committing

Tips for a Smooth Stay in Tokyo

Living in Tokyo as a digital nomad is a rewarding experience—but it helps to know a few things in advance. Here’s a list of practical, culture-informed tips that can make or break your stay:

Understand Your Visa Status

• Tourist visa (90 days for many nationalities): Fine for remote work for a foreign company, not for earning income from Japanese clients

• If you plan to stay longer: Consider a working holiday, student visa, or self-sponsored visa

• Keep a digital and printed copy of your visa and residence card at all times

Know What’s Included in Your Rent

• Don’t assume WiFi, bedding, or kitchenware are standard—always confirm

• Some places offer “semi-furnished” rentals with just a bed and fridge

• Monthly utilities may be included or capped (watch for overage charges)

‍ Stay Close to a Coworking Space

• Tokyo’s train network is amazing—but commuting during rush hour is brutal

• If working full-time remotely, choose a home near a quiet café or coworking spot

• Look for locations with LIFORK, Basis Point, or WeWork within walking distance

Test the Internet Speed

• Not all rentals have fiber-optic internet—some use pocket WiFi, which may lag on video calls

• Ask for screenshots of recent speed tests (use sites like fast.com or speedtest.net)

• If needed, bring or rent your own portable router with a SoftBank or Docomo SIM

Follow Local Etiquette in Shared Spaces

• Quiet hours are typically after 10 p.m., especially in residential buildings

• Always separate trash by category (burnable, plastic, PET bottles, etc.)

• Leave shared kitchens and showers cleaner than you found them

• A polite “sumimasen” (excuse me) or “arigatou gozaimasu” can go a long way

Final Thoughts: Why Tokyo Is Worth It for Digital Nomads

Tokyo is a paradox: massive yet orderly, ancient yet ultra-modern, intense yet serene. For digital nomads, it’s a rare opportunity to live and work in one of the safest, cleanest, and most efficient cities in the world—all while immersing yourself in a rich and fascinating culture.

Whether you’re a remote software engineer, content creator, online entrepreneur, or creative freelancer, Tokyo offers:

• World-class infrastructure and internet

• Globally connected coworking communities

• Affordable food, easy transport, and endless exploration

• A chance to blend productivity with personal growth

Sure, it takes a little effort to navigate contracts, customs, and neighborhoods—but that’s part of the adventure.

Come prepared, stay flexible, and Tokyo will reward you with experiences you’ll never forget.