Let me start by saying, I’m a city girl. I thrive on the energy of bustling streets and vibrant crowds. I’m a pavement queen, loving the “I’m-walkin’-here” attitude. But my usual love for urban life took an unexpected turn in Tokyo.
While my travel guides for digital nomads are generally lauded, even considered legendary, this time, Tokyo presented some challenges. I felt a disconnect, a lack of that familiar energy that I typically find in global cities.
Tokyo’s Coffee Culture: A Different Brew
My love affair with coffee shops is well-documented. I adore the cozy atmosphere, the opportunity to write, to work, to simply relax with a steaming cup. Seoul, with its endless supply of charming cafes, is my ideal city for this. But Tokyo, despite its reputation, didn’t quite hit the spot.
While Kyoto boasts a few gems, Tokyo, and Japan in general, hasn’t fully embraced the Western coffee shop culture. I yearn for those outdoor patios in Europe, or the comfy indoor spaces in the US, where I can settle in for hours, lost in a book or my work. Remember that Milanese cafe where friends lingered all day, transitioning from coffee to wine? The relaxed vibe, the inviting seating, a true escape from the world.
Tokyo’s coffee shops, however, are often cramped and small. It’s even considered rude to sip your coffee while walking down the street, forcing you to awkwardly stand and drink on a bustling sidewalk. Not exactly my idea of a relaxing morning.
Navigating the Hype: Tokyo Through a Digital Nomad’s Lens
Japan is riding a wave of social media hype, attracting countless travelers. It feels like everyone and their pet is there! If you’re one of them, I’d love to hear your honest thoughts on Tokyo. Hit me up on Substack, let’s chat!
But for me, Kyoto has stolen the show. It’s become one of my favorite cities in the world, and I’ve been to many! If you’re craving a truly inspirational travel experience, check out my blog post on Kyoto.
But if you’re interested in my candid take on Tokyo, read on.
Where to Stay: Finding Your Digital Nomad Home in Tokyo
My partner and I stayed in Hotel Cen, a highly-rated hostel, opting for the largest room available. While we typically choose Airbnbs or hotels, Tokyo’s booking scene was challenging. Hotel Cen is a solid choice: The rooms are small, but the location is excellent, with a good cafe and co-working spaces, all with super friendly staff.
If you’re on a budget, consider Hotel BaliAn Glamping (make sure to find the glamping location, not the other one). My friends loved it! And for those who truly want to travel light, there are pod hotels, where you rent a small pod with a bed.
Tokyo boasts diverse neighborhoods, and we chose Shinjuku for its central location and proximity to restaurants. While I can’t recommend any particular neighborhood, Shinjuku is a good starting point if you’re unsure where to go.
Exploring Tokyo: Digital Nomad Activities
Now, let’s talk about what Tokyo has to offer.
This concludes the first part of our article on Tokyo, a city full of contradictions and surprises for a digital nomad. We’ve touched on coffee culture, the overwhelming social media hype, and some great accommodation options. Stay tuned for more insights into Tokyo and its hidden gems.
