🌍 Overview
As a seasoned digital nomad, I’ve had the privilege of calling Hiroshima, Japan home for several months. This vibrant city has a unique charm that draws you in, with its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and warm hospitality. Hiroshima is a city of resilience and renewal, where traditional Japanese culture seamlessly blends with modern amenities. For digital nomads, Hiroshima offers an excellent balance of affordability, convenience, and inspiration. With a Nomad Score of 82/100 and a Safety Index of 7244/100, Hiroshima is an attractive destination for remote workers looking for a safe and productive environment. As a Hiroshima digital nomad, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals, explore the local culture, and enjoy the city’s laid-back atmosphere.
🏘️ Best Neighborhoods for Digital Nomads
When it comes to choosing a neighborhood in Hiroshima, digital nomads have several options to consider. Here are three areas that stand out for their character, convenience, and affordability:
- Naka-ku: This central ward is the heart of Hiroshima, with many restaurants, cafes, and shops within walking distance. Naka-ku is home to the famous Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum, as well as the bustling Hon-dori shopping street. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Naka-ku can range from ¥150,000 to ¥250,000 (approximately $1,370 to $2,300 USD) per month.
- Higashi-ku: Located just east of Naka-ku, Higashi-ku is a charming neighborhood with a mix of old and new Japan. This area is known for its beautiful parks, traditional Japanese gardens, and scenic walking trails along the Kyobashi River. Higashi-ku is also home to the Hiroshima University campus, making it a popular area for students and young professionals. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Higashi-ku can range from ¥120,000 to ¥200,000 (approximately $1,100 to $1,800 USD) per month.
- Minami-ku: This southern ward is a bit farther from the city center, but it offers a more relaxed atmosphere and easy access to the Hiroshima Bay. Minami-ku is home to the popular Miyajima Island, famous for its scenic beauty and historic landmarks like the Itsukushima Shrine. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Minami-ku can range from ¥100,000 to ¥180,000 (approximately $900 to $1,600 USD) per month.
Cost of Living Breakdown
The cost of living in Hiroshima is relatively affordable compared to other major cities in Japan. Here’s a breakdown of typical expenses for a digital nomad:
- Rent: ¥120,000 to ¥250,000 (approximately $1,100 to $2,300 USD) per month for a one-bedroom apartment
- Food: ¥500 to ¥1,000 (approximately $4.50 to $9 USD) per meal for a mid-range restaurant, or ¥2,000 to ¥5,000 (approximately $18 to $45 USD) per week for groceries
- Transport: ¥200 to ¥400 (approximately $1.80 to $3.60 USD) per ride for public transportation, or ¥5,000 to ¥10,000 (approximately $45 to $90 USD) per month for a prepaid IC card
- Coworking: ¥2,000 to ¥5,000 (approximately $18 to $45 USD) per day, or ¥50,000 to ¥100,000 (approximately $450 to $900 USD) per month for a membership
Overall, the cost of living in Hiroshima can range from ¥150,000 to ¥300,000 (approximately $1,370 to $2,700 USD) per month, depending on your lifestyle and preferences.
Internet & Coworking
Hiroshima has a well-developed infrastructure for digital nomads, with plenty of coworking spaces, cafes, and libraries offering reliable internet connectivity. Here are a few recommendations:
- Hiroshima Coworking Space: Located in the heart of Naka-ku, this coworking space offers high-speed internet, comfortable workstations, and a community of like-minded professionals. Membership fees start at ¥50,000 (approximately $450 USD) per month.
- Cafe Granvia: This popular cafe is located inside the Hiroshima Station building and offers free Wi-Fi, a cozy atmosphere, and a wide selection of coffee and snacks.
- Hiroshima City Library: This modern library is located in Naka-ku and offers free Wi-Fi, a quiet study area, and a vast collection of books and resources.
Internet speeds in Hiroshima are generally fast, with an average speed of 47 Mbps. You can expect to find reliable Wi-Fi connectivity in most cafes, restaurants, and public areas.
Hiroshima has a growing community of digital nomads, with several meetups and events organized throughout the year. Here are a few ways to connect with other remote workers:
- Hiroshima Digital Nomads: This Facebook group is a great resource for connecting with other digital nomads, finding coworking spaces, and getting tips on living and working in Hiroshima.
- Nomad List Hiroshima: This online community is a hub for digital nomads, with discussions on topics like cost of living, safety, and things to do in Hiroshima.
- Hiroshima Startup Weekend: This annual event brings together entrepreneurs, developers, and designers to work on startup projects and network with like-minded individuals.
Culture & Lifestyle
Hiroshima is a city with a rich cultural heritage, from its historic landmarks like the Hiroshima Castle and the Miyajima Island, to its vibrant food scene and traditional festivals. As a digital nomad, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to experience the local culture and lifestyle. Here are a few insider tips:
- Try the local cuisine: Hiroshima is famous for its okonomiyaki, a savory pancake filled with ingredients like pork, seafood, and vegetables. Be sure to try it at a local restaurant, like Okonomiyaki Mizuno or Okonomiyaki Nakazono.
- Visit the Miyajima Island: This scenic island is a must-visit destination in Hiroshima, with its stunning natural beauty, historic landmarks, and friendly deer population.
- Attend a traditional festival: Hiroshima hosts several festivals throughout the year, like the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Ceremony in August and the Miyajima Otorii Festival in November.
As a digital nomad, you’ll need to obtain a visa to enter and stay in Japan. Here are a few options:
- Tourist visa: This visa is valid for up to 90 days and can be obtained at a Japanese embassy or consulate in your home country.
- Working holiday visa: This visa is available for citizens of certain countries, like Australia, Canada, and the UK, and allows you to work and stay in Japan for up to one year.
- Digital nomad visa: Unfortunately, Japan does not currently offer a specific digital nomad visa. However, the government is considering introducing a new visa category for remote workers, so stay tuned for updates.
💡 Practical Tips
Here are a few practical tips for digital nomads living and working in Hiroshima:
- Get a SIM card: You can purchase a prepaid SIM card at a convenience store or a mobile phone shop, like SoftBank or AU. Prices start at around ¥2,000 (approximately $18 USD) per month.
- Use public transportation: Hiroshima has a well-developed public transportation system, with buses and trains connecting the city center to outlying areas. You can purchase a prepaid IC card, like the Hiroshima IC Card, for convenient travel.
- Be prepared for the weather: Hiroshima has a humid subtropical climate, with hot summers and mild winters. Be sure to pack accordingly and stay hydrated during the summer months.
- Learn some Japanese phrases: While many Hiroshima residents speak some English, it’s always helpful to learn a few basic Japanese phrases, like “konnichiwa” (hello), “arigatou” (thank you), and “sumimasen” (excuse me).