Living in Tokyo, Japan as a Digital Nomad – The Complete SEO Hobby Expert Guide
An Interview-Style Feature with MyMemo from SEO Hobby Expert
Travel Around The World Series Introduction: What This Is
Interviewer: Welcome back to our ongoing series on digital nomad life around the world. Since 2019, our guest has been traveling full-time while working remotely, documenting what it's actually like to live — not just visit — cities across the globe.
In each episode, you'll find honest insights on cost of living, neighborhoods, apartments, coworking spaces, cafés, internet speed, transportation, local culture, and everyday life to help you decide if a city is the right fit for you.
Whether you're planning your first trip abroad, searching for your next homebase, or simply curious about life in different parts of the world, these guides are designed to help you explore beyond the tourist attractions. New cities are added as the journey continues.
Today's destination: Tokyo, Japan — a city of neon-lit skyscrapers and ancient temples, of quiet gardens and chaotic markets, of bullet trains running on time to the second and tiny alleyway bars hidden behind unmarked doors. Tokyo is one of the world's great metropolises, but it's also one of the least understood digital nomad destinations.
Guest: I've lived in over 40 cities as a digital nomad, and Tokyo challenged me in ways no other city has. I spent a full 30 days living here — working from its coworking spaces, eating its ramen, hiking its sacred mountain, exploring its neighborhoods, and trying to crack the code of this incredible, overwhelming, endlessly fascinating city.
Let me take you through everything — the good, the challenging, and the unforgettable.
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Chapter 1: Arrival & First Impressions
Interviewer: Let's start at the very beginning. Walk me into Tokyo. What was your first impression when you arrived?
Guest: So I just arrived in Tokyo, Japan — my first time in this incredible country. The first thing I noticed is how organized everything is. From the moment you step off the plane, everything works. The trains are on time. The signage is clear. People are polite but efficient. There's a rhythm to the city that you feel immediately.
This time I'm staying in an apartment I found through a company called Somato.gp — they specialize in monthly rentals for digital nomads. My place is in the Ueno area, about two blocks from the metro station. It's small, but spacious by Tokyo standards. It has a proper Japanese toilet with all the buttons, a shower with a drying function that's perfect for hanging clothes overnight, and a comfortable workspace. And most importantly — it's right next to a Family Mart convenience store.
Interviewer: Family Mart becomes a character in this story, doesn't it?
Guest: [Laughs] You have no idea. Japanese convenience stores — or konbini — are on another level. They're not like 7-Elevens in other countries. Here, you can get fresh sandwiches, onigiri, hot meals, egg salad sandwiches that are somehow perfect every single time, and yes — I may have visited Family Mart more times than I'd like to admit. A meal there costs around ¥400, and it's genuinely good food.
Interviewer: How did you get around in those first few days?
Guest: For transit, I used my phone's wallet app to set up an IC card — Suica or Pasmo — which works for trains, buses, and even some convenience stores. You just tap your phone at the gate. It's seamless. And for shorter trips, I discovered Luup, which is a rental bike service. You find them all over the city, unlock them through the app, and rides cost about ¥100-200 for 10-15 minutes. There are tons of parking spots, so you never have to walk too far to find one.
The metro station is two blocks from my apartment, so I can be in Shibuya in about 20 minutes. The public transportation in Tokyo is genuinely the best in the world — the trains come every two to three minutes during peak hours, and they are always, always on time.
Chapter 2: Ueno — My Home Base
Interviewer: You chose Ueno as your base. What drew you there?
Guest: Ueno is one of those neighborhoods that has everything, but isn't as chaotic as Shibuya or Shinjuku. It has Ueno Park, which is one of Tokyo's most famous green spaces — especially during cherry blossom season in late March and early April, when the entire park turns pink and people gather for hanami (flower-viewing parties).
But the real heart of Ueno is Ameya-Yokocho — or "Ameyoko" for short. It's this sprawling market street that runs alongside the train tracks. During the day, it's packed with stalls selling everything from fresh seafood and dried fruits to clothes and souvenirs. At night, the energy shifts — the izakayas open up, the smell of grilled meat fills the air, and the whole place comes alive.
Interviewer: And you found a yakitori spot there?
Guest: Absolutely. There's this place in Ueno where I got a yakitori set — seven skewers of grilled chicken with a side of yakisoba noodles — all for a very reasonable price. The skewers are grilled over charcoal right in front of you. It's smoky, juicy, and exactly what you want after a long day of exploring or working. I don't remember the name of the specific stall, but that's the thing about Ameyoko — you just walk around, follow your nose, and find something incredible.
There's also the Tokyo National Museum in Ueno Park, which has an incredible collection of samurai armor, ancient pottery, ukiyo-e woodblock prints, and more. Spending an afternoon there gives you a real sense of Japan's depth of history.
Chapter 3: S-Tokyo Coworking — The Heart of the Nomad Community
Interviewer: Let's talk about where you actually worked. You found a special coworking space.
Guest: The main coworking space I used is called S-Tokyo. And I have to say — it's one of the best coworking spaces I've ever been to, and I've been to a lot. It's a community-focused space in Shibuya, about 10 minutes from the station by bike.
Interviewer: What makes it so special?
Guest: First, the setup. It's on the 8th floor of a building, with large windows looking out over the city. There are about 12 seats — it's intentionally small to keep the community vibe. Six monitor stations for people who need big screens for their work. The internet speed is incredible — I tested it at 160 Mbps both download and upload. There's a rooftop terrace where you can take calls or just enjoy the view.
But the real value is the community. S-Tokyo runs events regularly — Nomadlist meetups happen here about twice a month. People actually talk to each other here. It's not like those silent, library-style coworking spaces where everyone has headphones on. Here, people collaborate, share recommendations, and become friends.
Interviewer: And the pricing?
Guest: It's ¥1,300 per hour or around ¥5,500 per day. The day pass includes unlimited snacks and coffee, which is great. They also have a phone booth you can use for up to an hour per day for calls — which is common in Japan, since most coworking spaces don't allow phone calls at your desk.
I met the community manager, Chi-Chi, and they take a photo of you for the wall when you become a member. It's that kind of personal, community-driven space. I also met Nomadlist founder Pieter Levels there — he was visiting Tokyo and joined one of the meetups.
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Chapter 4: Shibuya — The Neon Heartbeat of Tokyo
Interviewer: No visit to Tokyo is complete without experiencing Shibuya. What did you discover there?
Guest: Shibuya is the beating heart of modern Tokyo. It's where you find the famous scramble crossing — that intersection you've seen in every movie about Tokyo — where hundreds of people cross from every direction at once when the light turns green. And right there, overlooking it all, is the statue of Hachiko — the loyal dog who waited for his owner at the station every day for years, even after his owner had passed away. It's the most famous meeting spot in all of Tokyo.
Interviewer: You visited Shibuya Sky. Tell me about that.
Guest: Shibuya Sky is a rooftop observation deck at the top of the Shibuya Scramble Square building. It's open-air, which is rare for Tokyo observation decks, and the views are absolutely insane. You're standing almost 230 meters above the city, with 360-degree views of Tokyo stretching out to the horizon.
The trick is to book about two weeks in advance for sunset time. It costs around ¥2,000, and it's worth every yen. Watching the sun go down over Tokyo, seeing the city lights flicker on one by one, watching the scramble crossing from above as people stream across it like ants — it's a perspective you can't get anywhere else.
Interviewer: You also found Nonbei Yokocho in Shibuya.
Guest: Yes — Nonbei Yokocho, which means "Drunkard's Alley." It's a tiny network of narrow alleys near Shibuya Station, packed with tiny bars that seat maybe four or five people at a time. These places have been here for decades — some since the post-war era. You squeeze in, order a drink, and strike up a conversation with the owner or the person next to you. It's intimate, authentic, and feels a world away from the neon chaos just steps away.
Chapter 5: Akihabara — Electric Town
Interviewer: You went to Akihabara. What's the deal with this place?
Guest: Akihabara — or "Electric Town" — is basically paradise for anyone interested in anime, gaming, electronics, or weird, wonderful Japanese pop culture. And yes, I spent way too much money there.
Interviewer: Gachapon, right?
Guest: [Laughs] The gachapon machines. They have entire stores — multiple floors — filled with nothing but these capsule toy vending machines. Each capsule costs around ¥300-500, and you never know exactly what you're going to get. I spent a ridiculous amount of time and money on these things. The best part? There are recycling bins right next to the machines, because they know you're going to get duplicates and need to dispose of them.
Beyond gachapon, there are multi-floor stores selling trading cards, figurines, vintage video games, and Tamachi Nations — this amazing store where the salespeople are incredibly passionate about the figures they're selling. They'll tell you all about the craftsmanship, the sculptor, the limited edition details. It's not just shopping — it's an experience.
There are also arcades in the metro station itself — imagine walking through a subway station and finding rows of claw machines and rhythm games just along the corridor. That's Akihabara. The whole neighborhood is sensory overload in the best possible way.
Chapter 6: The Bars of Tokyo — Shogun Bar and Muscle Girls Bar
Interviewer: You found some of the most unique bars I've ever heard of. Let's start with Shogun Bar.
Guest: Shogun Bar is unlike anything you've ever experienced. It's in the Shinjuku area, and it's a samurai-themed bar where you can dress up in full samurai costume. The experience starts with a ceremonial sake barrel-breaking — you take a wooden mallet, smash open a sake barrel, and pour yourself a cup. Then you get a golden leaf placed in your sake — actual edible gold leaf.
It's all-you-can-drink for one hour, which is plenty. The bartenders are in character, the atmosphere is theatrical, and it's genuinely fun. The golden leaf sake — you can taste it. It doesn't taste like much, but the presentation is everything.
Interviewer: And Muscle Girls Bar?
Guest: [Laughs] Okay, so Muscle Girls Bar is — well, it's exactly what it sounds like. It's a bar staffed by incredibly fit, muscular women who will challenge you to arm wrestling, push-up contests, and other strength-based challenges. If you lose, you have to do reps. If you win... actually, I'm not sure anyone wins.
There was a bet involving slaps on the arm for ¥10,000. I did about 50 reps over the course of the night. It's completely ridiculous, completely over-the-top, and completely unforgettable. This is the kind of experience you can only have in Tokyo.
Chapter 7: TeamLab Borderless & Tokyo Tower
Interviewer: You visited two of Tokyo's most iconic attractions. How were they?
Guest: TeamLab Borderless is not just a museum — it's a digital art experience that completely immerses you. You walk through rooms where digital flowers bloom and die around you, where water flows down virtual waterfalls, where the boundaries between the art and the viewer dissolve.
The most famous room is the one with the flowers — you walk into a dark room, and suddenly flowers are blooming all around you, projected onto the walls and floor. It lasts about three minutes, and it's mesmerizing. There's also a room where you can draw fish on a piece of paper, scan it, and your fish appears swimming on the massive projection wall. It costs ¥3,800, and it's worth every yen.
Interviewer: And Tokyo Tower?
Guest: Tokyo Tower is the classic — the orange and white tower that's been the symbol of Tokyo since 1958. It costs around ¥3,000 to go to the top, and surprisingly, that price includes a glass of wine. So you can watch the sunset over Tokyo with a drink in hand, looking out at the city lights coming on below.
It's less crowded than the newer Tokyo Skytree, and honestly, I prefer it. It's iconic, it's classic, and there's something special about seeing the city from a tower that's been there for over 60 years.
Chapter 8: Koffee Mameya — A ¥10,000 Coffee Experience
Interviewer: You spent ¥10,000 on coffee. Tell me about that.
Guest: Koffee Mameya is not a regular coffee shop. It's a coffee experience. Located in the Omotesando area, it's a sleek, minimalist space that looks more like a high-end jewelry store than a café. The concept is that you don't just order a drink — you go through a curated tasting experience.
I did the five-course tasting, which costs ¥10,000. That breaks down to about ¥2,000 per cup, or roughly $13-14 per cup depending on the exchange rate. But these are not regular cups of coffee. Each course is a different origin, prepared a different way — pour-over, espresso, cold brew, and so on. The barista explains the flavor notes, the growing region, the processing method. It's educational and delicious.
Is it worth it? If you're a coffee lover, absolutely. The attention to detail is incredible. The barista remembered my preferences from course to course. It's one of those uniquely Japanese experiences — taking something ordinary and elevating it to an art form.
Chapter 9: Mount Fuji — The Hike That Almost Broke Me
Interviewer: You hiked Mount Fuji. How was that?
Guest: [Long pause] Mount Fuji was... an experience. Let me be honest with you — it was freezing, it was wet, it was windy, and it was one of the most memorable things I've ever done.
Interviewer: Walk me through the logistics.
Guest: First, you take a bus from the Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal — it's about 2.5 hours to the 5th Station, which is where the hiking season starts. The bus was about ¥2,800 one way. When you arrive, you pay a ¥4,000 hiking fee — and you need to book this online in advance because there's limited capacity.
From the 5th Station, it takes about two hours to hike to the 7th Station, where I stayed in a mountain hut. The huts are basic — very small beds, minimal amenities — but they give you a place to rest before the summit push.
Interviewer: What was the weather like?
Guest: The weather at the summit was brutal. It was freezing cold — probably around 0°C or below even in summer — and incredibly windy. The clouds rolled in, and I could barely see two meters in front of me. I had a poncho and multiple layers, and I was still cold. I woke up at the right time to see the sunrise from the summit, but the clouds never cleared. I got exactly one photo from the top before we had to go back down.
But you know what? I don't regret it at all. Standing at the summit of Japan's highest mountain — even if I couldn't see anything — was an incredible feeling. The sense of accomplishment, the camaraderie with the other hikers, the experience of pushing through discomfort — it's exactly the kind of thing that makes travel meaningful.
Interviewer: And after the hike?
Guest: After coming back down, I fully understood the importance of having good travel insurance. Shout out to Yenki for sponsoring that part of the journey. Because when you're freezing at the top of a mountain, you really appreciate having proper coverage.
I also discovered that Hakata ramen — the style from Fukuoka — is a perfect post-hike meal. Rich pork broth, thin noodles, and if you're lucky, some ichiran style solo booths where you don't have to talk to anyone. After a hike like that, you just want to eat in peace.
Chapter 10: The Ramen Tour — Ramen Eddie & Menya Musashi
Interviewer: You visited two very different ramen shops. Let's start with Ramen Eddie.
Guest: Ramen Eddie is in the Shibuya area, and it serves what I can only describe as "cappuccino ramen." The broth is topped with a thick layer of foam — created by aerating the broth with an espresso machine — that gives it a creamy, airy texture. On top of the foam, they drizzle aromatic oil to add another layer of flavor.
It costs around ¥1,500, which is on the higher end for ramen, but the presentation is incredible. The foam, the oil, the rich broth underneath — it's a completely unique take on ramen. The owner was clearly experimenting and having fun with it.
Interviewer: And Menya Musashi?
Guest: Menya Musashi is the complete opposite of Ramen Eddie in every way. While Ramen Eddie is subtle and creative, Menya Musashi is overwhelming and maximalist. They serve what might be the most insane bowl of ramen in Tokyo — 800 grams of pork in a single bowl.
It costs around ¥3,800 (about $25), and it's a mountain of food. They give you a cutting board and a knife with your bowl, because you need to cut the pork yourself. There are three broth options: white (shio), black (shoyu), and red (spicy miso). I went with the red, and it was incredible.
The best part? They offer takeout containers for the leftover pork. The pork itself is braised until it's incredibly tender — it's more like a braised pork belly dish than a traditional ramen topping. If you're in Tokyo with a big appetite, this is a must-visit.
Chapter 11: Shinjuku — The City That Never Sleeps
Interviewer: Shinjuku is legendary. What did you discover there?
Guest: Shinjuku is overwhelming in the best possible way. It's a city within a city — the busiest train station in the world, massive department stores, towering skyscrapers, and some of the most fascinating nightlife neighborhoods on earth.
Interviewer: Tell me about Omoide Yokocho.
Guest: Omoide Yokocho — "Memory Lane" — is a tiny network of narrow alleys beneath the train tracks near Shinjuku Station. The izakayas here are the smallest I've ever seen — some seat only four or five people at a time. The specialty is grilled skewers (yakitori) and whiskey highballs. The atmosphere is smoky, intimate, and incredibly authentic. It feels like stepping back in time to post-war Tokyo.
Interviewer: And what about Golden Gai?
Guest: Golden Gai is the most famous nightlife district in Tokyo — and for good reason. It's a maze of six narrow alleys packed with over 200 tiny bars, each seating maybe five to ten people. Each bar has its own theme, its own regulars, its own personality.
I visited a bar called "A" — it's been around for 50 years, and the walls are covered in movie memorabilia. The owner is a character. There's also a rooftop bar in Golden Gai where you can sit outside and look out over the alleys below. Many of these bars have cover charges (around ¥500-1,000), but they're worth it for the experience.
Interviewer: You also mentioned a conversation café.
Guest: Yes — there's a conversation café in Shinjuku where you can practice Japanese with locals. It's set up specifically for language exchange. You pay a small fee, get a drink, and sit down to talk with Japanese people who want to practice English or other languages. It's a great way to meet locals and practice the language in a low-pressure environment.
I picked up a few phrases during my time in Tokyo. The most versatile is "jabai" — which can mean crazy, amazing, intense, or "oh no" depending on the context and tone. It's one of those words that Japanese people use constantly, and when you use it correctly, they light up.
Chapter 12: Ginza, Tsukiji & Art Aquarium
Interviewer: You explored Ginza and Tsukiji. What stood out?
Guest: Ginza is Tokyo's most upscale shopping district. Think Fifth Avenue in New York or the Champs-Élysées in Paris. But even here, there are surprises. The Uniqlo flagship store in Ginza has a coffee shop inside — Uniqlo Coffee, where you can get a latte for ¥200. Only in Japan would a clothing store have a coffee shop.
Interviewer: And Tsukiji Market?
Guest: Tsukiji used to be the world's largest fish market — the famous tuna auctions moved to Toyosu in 2018, but the outer market is still very much alive. It's a maze of narrow streets filled with food stalls, restaurants, and shops selling everything from kitchen knives to dried seaweed.
I had the fatty tuna (otoro) and super fatty tuna sushi — it literally melts in your mouth. I also tried a matcha sweet and a chocolate sweet from one of the dessert stalls. The energy in Tsukiji is incredible — vendors calling out, fresh seafood on display, the smell of grilled eel and tamago (Japanese omelet) filling the air.
Interviewer: And Art Aquarium?
Guest: The Art Aquarium in Ginza is a completely unexpected experience. It's an exhibition space where they combine living goldfish with elaborate, artistic aquarium designs. The goldfish are swimming in traditional Japanese vessels, in modern glass cubes, in circular tanks that create mesmerizing patterns. The whole space is dimly lit with dramatic lighting, making the fish look almost like living art.
It's strange, it's beautiful, and it's very Japanese — taking something ordinary (goldfish) and elevating it to an art form through design and presentation.
Chapter 13: The Coworking Tour — Six Spaces in One Day
Interviewer: You visited multiple coworking spaces in a single day. Give me the tour.
Guest: I did a full coworking tour of Tokyo, visiting six different spaces. Let me break them down.
S-Tokyo — We already talked about this one. It's my favorite. Community-focused, great internet, rooftop, events. ¥5,500/day.
blink — This is in the Roppongi Hills area, an upscale international neighborhood. It's four floors of sleek, modern workspace. There are share desks, private offices, meeting rooms, and a café. The vibe is more corporate than S-Tokyo, but the views of the Tokyo skyline are incredible.
K Shinjuku — This is one I found through the Global Nomad Pass, a subscription that gives you access to multiple coworking spaces for a monthly fee. K Shinjuku offers 10% off for Global Nomad Pass members. I tested the internet speed here — 568 Mbps download. That's faster than most home connections. It has monitors at every desk and a professional but friendly atmosphere.
Rampart — This one has a special place in my heart. Rampart is where Takosan — one of the founders — first introduced me to the digital nomad lifestyle back in 2020, when he invited me to Bali. Coming back to visit his space in Tokyo felt like closing a circle. It's a local, community-focused space with a relaxed vibe.
Andwork (The Millennials) — This is a unique concept behind Shibuya Station. It's a hotel and coworking hybrid. Hotel guests get access, but drop-ins are also welcome. The ground floor is a café/bar area, and upstairs has workstations. In the evenings, they offer free beer — because Japan. It's open 24 hours for some options, which is great for night owls.
WeWork Shibuya — The giant. Three floors of workspace in the Shibuya Scramble Square building, with incredible views of the crossing. Free beer after work, which attracts a social crowd. It's massive and corporate, but the location is unbeatable.
Chapter 14: A Day in the Life — Work, Bike, Izakaya
Interviewer: Walk me through a typical full day in Tokyo.
Guest: Let me show you a normal day. I wake up in my Ueno apartment, grab an iced coffee from Family Mart — ¥100 for a large — and head out. My first stop is usually Partika Coffee, a small shop near S-Tokyo that does incredible pour-overs. The barista makes cute latte art — I got a cat on mine once.
Then I head to S-Tokyo for a few hours of work. I connect to the 160 Mbps Wi-Fi, put on my headphones, and get into a flow state. Around lunchtime, I take a break and grab something quick — maybe a sandwich from Family Mart or ramen if I'm feeling indulgent.
Interviewer: I heard about the 2 PM lunch problem.
Guest: [Laughs] Yes. I struggled with timing my meals. I'd get so focused on work that I wouldn't eat until 2 PM, and then I'd be starving and eat way too much. It's a classic digital nomad problem.
After work, I'd hop on a Luup bike and ride to a different neighborhood. The bikes are electric-assisted, so even Tokyo's hills aren't a problem. I'd explore a new area, maybe find a coffee shop, and then meet up with friends for dinner.
Interviewer: What was a typical dinner like?
Guest: Dinner would usually be at an izakaya — a Japanese-style pub. You order a bunch of small dishes to share — edamame, yakitori, sashimi, gyoza, tempura — and drink beer, sake, or highballs. There's one izakaya in Roppongi that has a modern take on traditional dishes — creative interpretations of classics. The atmosphere is always lively, and it's the perfect way to end a day.
After dinner, if the night was still young, I might head to Golden Gai for a drink at a tiny bar, or to Imaginario — a karaoke place where all the digital nomads gather on certain nights. Anyone can choose a song, everyone cheers, and it's a terrible, wonderful time.
Chapter 15: Shimokitazawa — The Hipster Heart
Interviewer: Shimokitazawa has a completely different vibe from the rest of Tokyo. What's it like?
Guest: Shimokitazawa — or "Shimokita" — is Tokyo's hipster neighborhood. Think Brooklyn, but Japanese. It's known for its vintage clothing stores, independent coffee shops, live music venues, and narrow streets that feel more like a small town than a Tokyo neighborhood.
Interviewer: Tell me about Bear Pond Espresso.
Guest: Bear Pond Espresso is legendary in Tokyo's coffee scene. It's a tiny shop run by a Japanese barista who trained in New York. They're known for their "dirty latte" — espresso pulled directly over cold milk, creating a beautiful layered effect. The shop is so small that there's almost no seating. You order, get your coffee, and drink it outside.
I met a local there who told me about the book "Shimokitazawa Stories" — a collection of essays and photographs about the neighborhood's history and culture. Shimokita survived a major redevelopment plan in the 2000s, and the community fought to preserve its character. Walking through its narrow streets, you can feel that history.
Interviewer: You also did an architecture tour?
Guest: I joined an architecture walk with a guide named Jesse — he has a PhD in urban studies and runs architecture tours focused on Shimokitazawa and the surrounding areas. He explained the concept of "blur boundaries" — the way Japanese neighborhoods blend public and private spaces, creating these in-between zones that make walking through them so interesting.
We explored tiny alleyways, hidden gardens, buildings designed by famous architects. Shimokita has a disproportionate number of architect-designed homes because it was one of the few areas in Tokyo where land was affordable enough for young architects to build experimental houses.
Chapter 16: Daikanyama & Nakameguro — The Stylish Corridor
Interviewer: You visited Daikanyama and Nakameguro. What's there?
Guest: These two neighborhoods sit along the Meguro River and are known for being stylish, sophisticated, and more relaxed than central Tokyo. It's where locals go when they want to escape the crowds.
Interviewer: Tell me about the Starbucks Roastery.
Guest: Starbucks Reserve Roastery Tokyo in Nakameguro is not your average Starbucks. It's the largest Starbucks in the world — four floors designed by renowned architect Kengo Kuma (who also designed the new Olympic Stadium). It features a massive copper roasting facility in the center of the space, with the beans being roasted right there in front of you.
Each floor has a different concept. The first floor is the main coffee bar and bakery. The second floor is the Teavana tea bar. The third floor is an Arriviamo cocktail bar — yes, a Starbucks with a cocktail bar. The fourth floor is an AMU lounge inspired by Japanese cultural events.
The design is incredible — warm wood, copper accents, and massive windows overlooking the cherry blossom trees along the Meguro River. During cherry blossom season, this area is absolutely stunning.
Interviewer: And Travelers Factory?
Guest: Travelers Factory in Nakameguro is a stationery store that's a pilgrimage site for journaling enthusiasts. They sell the famous "Traveler's Notebook" — a leather notebook system that you customize with inserts, charms, and accessories. The store itself is in a renovated old house with exposed beams and a cozy, inviting atmosphere.
They also have a café next door where you can sit and write in your notebook. It's the kind of place that makes you want to be more creative, more organized, more intentional about documenting your travels.
Chapter 17: Ninja Restaurant Tokyo — Dinner and a Show
Interviewer: You went to a ninja-themed restaurant. How was that?
Guest: The Ninja Restaurant Tokyo in Akasaka is not just a meal — it's a 12-course theatrical experience. You enter through a hidden door, and then you're led through a maze of dark corridors by a ninja who does magic tricks along the way.
The courses are presented with theatrical flair. One course is served in a smoking fire snail that the ninja "tames" before opening. Another course involves bread that disappears when the ninja waves his hand over it. The dessert is a frog that you crack open to reveal a sweet treat inside.
Interviewer: Was the food actually good?
Guest: Surprisingly, yes. With these themed restaurants, there's always a risk that the show is better than the food. But the food at Ninja Tokyo was genuinely good — creative, well-prepared, and thoughtfully paired. The 12 courses range from appetizers to main courses to dessert, with each dish incorporating ninja themes and presentation.
It's not cheap — expect to pay around ¥10,000 or more depending on the course you choose — but it's an unforgettable experience. It's the kind of dinner you'll still be talking about years later.
Chapter 18: Senso-ji Temple & Asakusa
Interviewer: You visited Tokyo's oldest temple. What was that experience like?
Guest: Senso-ji is the oldest temple in Tokyo, located in the Asakusa neighborhood. The approach to the temple goes through the Kaminarimon (Thunder Gate) — a massive red lantern that's one of the most photographed spots in Tokyo. Beyond the gate is Nakamise-dori, a shopping street with stalls selling traditional souvenirs, snacks, and crafts.
Interviewer: I heard you had a guided tour there.
Guest: Yes — I booked a guide through gogu.com (which I was told is a platform where you can find local guides). The guide explained the purification ritual at the temple entrance — you wash your hands and mouth at the water pavilion before approaching the main hall. Inside the hall, you bow, throw a coin into the offering box, and make a wish.
I also tried omikuji — the paper fortunes you can get for about ¥100. You shake a metal container to get a numbered stick, then find the corresponding fortune from a drawer. If you get a bad fortune, you tie it to a wire at the temple to leave the bad luck behind. I got a good fortune, so I kept it.
And of course, I had taiyaki — a fish-shaped pastry filled with sweet red bean paste, custard, or other fillings. You order by saying the phrase I'd learned: "Taiyaki kudasai" — which the vendor appreciated.
Chapter 19: Coffee Culture — The Partika, Obscura & Chatei Hatou Tour
Interviewer: Tokyo has an incredible coffee scene. What were your favorite spots?
Guest: Tokyo's coffee scene is world-class, and each shop has its own philosophy. Let me run through my favorites.
Partika Coffee is near S-Tokyo and became my regular spot. They do pour-overs with incredible attention to detail, and the barista makes beautiful latte art. It's laptop-friendly and has a relaxed atmosphere.
Obscura Coffee Roasters in Shibuya is one of the best coffee shops in Tokyo. Their lattes are consistently excellent — perfectly extracted espresso, perfectly steamed milk, beautiful presentation. If you only visit one coffee shop in Tokyo, make it Obscura.
Chatei Hatou in Shibuya is the complete opposite of the modern third-wave shops. It's an old-school coffee shop that's been around for decades. They do charcoal-roasted coffee — a traditional Japanese preparation method that produces a deep, smoky, low-acidity cup. It costs about ¥600, and it's served in beautiful ceramic cups. The shop is quiet, contemplative, and cash-only. I loved it, but it's not a place to take loud phone calls or work on your laptop. You go there to experience the coffee.
Chapter 20: The Last Day — Reflections & Farewell
Interviewer: How did you spend your final day in Tokyo?
Guest: My last full day was a Nomadlist meetup at S-Tokyo. I connected with other remote workers who were in Tokyo, we shared our experiences and recommendations, and I said goodbye to the community that had made my month so special.
After the meetup, I watched my final sunset from Shibuya Sky — the open-air rooftop that had become my favorite spot in the city. Watching the sun go down over Tokyo, seeing the lights of the city flicker on one by one, I felt a mix of satisfaction and sadness. Tokyo had challenged me, surprised me, and changed me.
Interviewer: What's your final verdict on Tokyo? Would you go back?
Guest: Tokyo is not an easy city. The language barrier is real. The social norms take time to understand. The cost of living adds up. But it's also one of the most rewarding cities I've ever lived in.
The things I'll miss most: walking through Ueno Park during cherry blossom season. The ritual of grabbing a coffee from a convenience store and exploring a new neighborhood. The incredible food — from ¥1,500 ramen to ¥10,000 omakase. The safety of walking alone at night anywhere in the city. The feeling of standing at Shibuya crossing, surrounded by thousands of people moving together in perfect chaos. The friends I made at coworking meetups and conversation cafés.
Would I go back? Without hesitation. In fact, I'm already planning my return. Tokyo is the kind of city that reveals itself slowly. A month gave me a taste. I want the full meal.
And if you're wondering how to afford this lifestyle — the coworking memberships, the Ninja restaurant dinners, the Mount Fuji hikes — the answer is building a location-independent income. SEO Hobby Expert School teaches you exactly how to do that. From keyword research to content strategy to affiliate marketing, you'll learn the skills that let you work from anywhere in the world.
Chapter 21: Cost of Living — The Bottom Line
Interviewer: Let's get practical. How much did a month in Tokyo actually cost?
Guest: For a whole month, I spent around $3,800 — which is approximately ¥550,000 at current exchange rates. Let me break that down.
Monthly Budget Breakdown:
| Expense Category | Estimated Monthly Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Housing (Somato.gp monthly apartment in Ueno) | ~$1,500 |
| Food (eating out + convenience store meals) | ~$800 |
| Coworking & Coffee Shops | ~$400 |
| Transportation (IC card, Luup bikes, metro) | ~$200 |
| Activities & Entertainment | ~$500 |
| Miscellaneous (gachapon, souvenirs, etc.) | ~$200 |
| Travel Insurance | Varies |
| Total | ~$3,800 |
The biggest expense by far is housing. Tokyo rent is comparable to major Western cities. My Somato.gp apartment was around $1,500 for the month. If you share an apartment or stay in a share house, you can reduce that significantly.
Food is surprisingly affordable if you eat like a local. Ramen is ¥1,000-1,500. Convenience store meals are ¥400-600. Conveyor belt sushi is ¥150-500 per plate. My biggest single food expense was the Koffee Mameya coffee course at ¥10,000 and the Ninja Restaurant at ¥10,000+ — but those were experiences, not everyday meals.
Is Tokyo expensive? Yes, compared to Bangkok or Chiang Mai, it's expensive. But compared to London, New York, or Sydney — it's comparable, and in some ways better value. The quality you get for the price is exceptional.
Chapter 22: Final Thoughts & Practical Tips
Interviewer: Any final advice for digital nomads considering Tokyo?
Guest: A few things I learned the hard way:
Book Shibuya Sky two weeks in advance for sunset time. It sells out.
Get a Global Nomad Pass or similar coworking subscription if you plan to work from multiple spaces. It saves money and gives you flexibility.
Use Pangia Pass for internet — it's unlimited data, one payment per month, and it's designed by and for digital nomads. I didn't buy an eSIM at the airport because of this.
Learn a few Japanese phrases. "Jabai" for expressing amazement. "Arigato" for thank you. "Kanpai" for cheers. "Mata ne" for "see you later." These small efforts go a long way.
Don't overplan. Tokyo rewards wandering. Some of my best experiences — the tiny yakitori stall, the hidden coffee shop, the unexpected architecture tour — came from simply exploring.
Respect the quiet culture. In coworking spaces, take phone calls in designated booths. In coffee shops like Chatei Hatou, be mindful of the atmosphere. Tokyo's social norms are different, and respecting them makes everything easier.
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Quick Reference: Tokyo at a Glance
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Monthly Cost | ~$3,800 USD (¥550,000) |
| Best Neighborhood for Nomads | Ueno (value + central), Shibuya (energy + coworking), Shimokitazawa (hipster + creative) |
| Best Coworking | S-Tokyo (community), WeWork Shibuya (scale), blink Roppongi (views), K Shinjuku (speed) |
| Best Coffee Shops for Work | Partika Coffee, Obscura Coffee Roasters |
| Best Coffee Experience | Koffee Mameya (¥10,000 5-course tasting), Chatei Hatou (¥600 charcoal roast, cash-only) |
| Internet Reliability | Exceptional — K Shinjuku tested 568 Mbps, S-Tokyo 160 Mbps |
| Best Ramen | Ramen Eddie (cappuccino ramen, ¥1,500), Menya Musashi (800g pork, ¥3,800) |
| Best Unique Dining | Ninja Restaurant Tokyo (12-course theatrical, ¥10,000+) |
| Best Unique Bars | Shogun Bar (samurai costume + golden leaf sake), Muscle Girls Bar (do reps for drinks), Golden Gai bar "A" (50-year-old classic) |
| Must-Visit Attractions | TeamLab Borderless (¥3,800), Shibuya Sky (¥2,000, book 14 days ahead), Tokyo Tower (¥3,000 includes wine), Senso-ji Temple, Tsukiji Outer Market |
| Best Hike | Mount Fuji (¥4,000 fee, 2.5hr bus, 2hrs to 7th station, freezing summit) |
| Best Neighborhood to Explore | Shimokitazawa (thrift stores, Bear Pond Espresso, architecture tour) |
| Community | Nomadlist meetups at S-Tokyo (twice monthly), conversation cafés in Shinjuku, Live It Up Slack group, SEO Hobby Expert School on Internet |
| Transportation | IC card (Suica/Pasmo via Apple Wallet), Luup bike rental |
| eSIM/Internet | Pangia Pass (unlimited data, 1 payment/month, by/for nomads) |
| Best Time to Visit | Late March-early April (cherry blossoms), October-November (autumn colors) |
| Accommodation Platform | Somato.gp (monthly rentals for digital nomads) |
The final word on Tokyo: It's a city that demands something from you — attention, respect, adaptability. But it gives back ten times what you put in. If you come with an open mind and a willingness to learn, Tokyo will change the way you think about cities, about work, and about what's possible.
Mata ne, Tokyo. See you next time.
This interview was conducted by the MyMemo AI Knowledge Team. The guest is a digital nomad with experience living in 40+ cities worldwide. The conversation has been edited for length and clarity, with content drawn from a 30-day stay in Tokyo, Japan.
Related Resources You Might Like:
- Living in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil as a Digital Nomad – A Complete Guide
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- The Digital Nomad Dream Is Not Dead — It Evolved: 12-Year Veteran Interview
- SEO Hobby Expert School – Build Your Location-Independent Business
If you found this guide useful, check out the full 23-episode Tokyo video series for every moment captured in real time. RePeople coliving, Nomadlist, and Pangia Pass are linked in the video description for anyone planning their own Tokyo adventure.
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