The Reality of Being a Digital Nomad in Japan
Travelling & Working IT in Japan
NOTE: This was made before the Yen decline to USD!
I never spent more than 2 months in a city
- High Costs: Japan is an expensive digital nomad destination, requiring $3,000 to $5,000 per month.
- Stressful Lifestyle: Constant movement and balancing work with travel adds significant stress.
- Forced Minimalism: Minimalism is necessary due to the impracticality of carrying many belongings.
- Isolation: Japan’s reserved culture and lack of a digital nomad community can lead to loneliness.
- Questioning Choices: Frequent reflections on life and work decisions are common.
- Disrupted Routine: The freedom to travel disrupts work-life balance, making it hard to stay productive.
- Conclusion: While appealing in theory, being a digital nomad in Japan can be challenging and isolating.
For the past two and a half years (2020 ~ 2022), I've been living the digital nomad lifestyle in Japan. While it might sound glamorous, the reality is far from the dreamy, picturesque life often portrayed online. Let's get straight to the point: Japan is an expensive country, and being a digital nomad here requires a significant budget.
The Cost of Living
Japan is not a cheap destination. Unlike popular nomad hotspots like Bali, Vietnam, or Argentina, where the cost of living is low, Japan demands a much higher monthly expenditure. On average, I spend between $3,000 to $5,000 a month, covering essentials like accommodation, transportation, and food.
Accommodation Expenses
Renting a place in Japan isn't cheap. At the lower end, you might spend around $1,000 a month on a basic room or hostel. However, if you're looking for something more comfortable, like a business hotel, expect to pay between $1,500 to $2,000 monthly. The cost varies with the season, and during peak times or holidays, prices can double or even triple.
Transportation Costs
Transportation is another major expense. If you're traveling between cities, you'll likely use the Shinkansen (bullet train) or domestic flights, both of which add up quickly. Even local travel within cities isn't cheap, and if you're moving around frequently, your monthly transportation costs can easily exceed $1,000.
Food and Dining
Eating out in Japan is a cultural experience, but it's also an expensive one. A good meal at a nice restaurant can cost you $100 or more. Even if you're conservative with your spending, daily meals can add up to a substantial amount, especially if you're not living on instant ramen. It's easy to spend $2,000 or more on food each month.
The Stress Factor
Living the digital nomad life in Japan comes with its stresses. Constantly moving from one place to another, finding accommodation, and adapting to new environments can be overwhelming. If you're working a full-time job while trying to navigate these challenges, the stress levels can skyrocket.
Minimalism by Necessity
One unexpected aspect of being a digital nomad in Japan is the forced minimalism. With limited space in your luggage, you quickly learn to live with the bare essentials. This lifestyle isn't about trendy minimalism; it's about practicality. You carry what you need and nothing more because there's simply no room for anything else.
The Loneliness of Nomad Life in Japan
Japan isn't known for having a strong digital nomad community. Unlike other countries where nomads gather and socialize, Japan's culture is more isolated. As a result, you may find yourself alone, navigating this lifestyle without the camaraderie that other destinations offer.
The Freedom Paradox
While the freedom to travel and work remotely is appealing, it comes with its own set of challenges. The constant movement disrupts your work rhythm, and the endless options of where to go next can become overwhelming. Sometimes, despite having the freedom to go anywhere, you might find yourself longing for the stability of a permanent home.
Conclusion
Being a digital nomad in Japan is not for the faint of heart. It's an expensive, stressful, and often lonely experience. However, if you're someone who enjoys solitude, minimalism, and the unique culture of Japan, it can be a rewarding adventure. Just be prepared for the challenges that come with it.