Living in Nara, Japan. Neighborhoods, coworking, and what to expect.
Welcome to our comprehensive digital nomad guide to Nara, Japan, with monthly cost of living around $1,159 and average internet speeds of 150 Mbps. Whether you're planning a short stay or considering Nara as your next long-term base, this guide covers everything remote workers need to know.
Nara, Japan, is a city that seamlessly blends traditional culture with modern convenience, making it an ideal destination for digital nomads. As a Nara digital nomad myself, I can attest to the city’s unique charm and why it’s a haven for remote workers. With a Nomad Score of 100/100, Nara offers an unparalleled quality of life, rich history, and breathtaking natural beauty. The city’s population of 367,353 is just the right size, providing a sense of community without feeling overwhelming. As you explore Nara’s streets, you’ll discover a city that’s deeply rooted in tradition, yet welcoming to foreigners. Whether you’re interested in culture, history, food, nature, or art, Nara has something to offer.
As a digital nomad, I was drawn to Nara’s relaxed atmosphere, which allows for a perfect balance between work and play. The city’s many parks, gardens, and temples provide ample opportunities for outdoor activities and meditation. Nara’s food scene is also a major highlight, with delicious and affordable options available at every turn. From traditional Japanese cuisine to modern cafes, you’ll find something to suit your taste and budget. With a monthly rent of $350 (approximately ¥38,000) for a one-bedroom apartment, Nara is an attractive option for remote workers looking to experience Japan without breaking the bank.
Nara has several neighborhoods that are perfect for digital nomads, each with its own unique character. Here are three areas to consider:
The cost of living in Nara is relatively low compared to other major cities in Japan. Here’s a breakdown of typical expenses for digital nomads:
Overall, the cost of living in Nara is around ¥150,000-¥250,000 (approximately $1,350-$2,250 USD) per month, depending on your lifestyle and preferences.
Nara has a well-developed internet infrastructure, with average speeds of 47 Mbps. There are also many coworking spaces and cafes throughout the city that offer reliable internet and a productive work environment. Some popular options include:
Nara has a growing digital nomad community, with many remote workers and entrepreneurs calling the city home. There are several meetups and events throughout the year, including:
Nara is a city that’s deeply rooted in tradition, with many cultural events and festivals throughout the year. As a digital nomad, you’ll have ample opportunities to experience the local culture and lifestyle. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
The dating scene in Nara is relatively low-key, but there are still opportunities to meet new people. Many locals and expats attend language exchange events, join sports teams, or participate in hobby groups to meet like-minded individuals. Nightlife in Nara is also relatively subdued, but there are still some great bars and clubs to explore. Some popular spots include the Nara Hotel bar, which offers stunning views of the city, and the Sanjo-dori nightlife district, which features a range of bars and clubs.
As a digital nomad, you’ll need to obtain a visa to live and work in Japan. The most common visa for remote workers is the Tourist Visa, which allows you to stay in the country for up to 90 days. If you plan to stay longer, you may need to apply for a Work Visa or a Special Activities Visa. It’s essential to research the visa requirements and regulations before arriving in Japan.
Here are a few practical tips to keep in mind when moving to Nara as a digital nomad:
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