🌍 Overview
As a digital nomad, I’ve had the pleasure of calling Osaka home for several months, and I can confidently say that it’s one of the most underrated destinations for remote workers. Osaka, also known as the “nation’s kitchen,” is a city that seamlessly blends tradition with modernity, offering a unique blend of culture, food, and entertainment that’s hard to find elsewhere. With its vibrant atmosphere, rich history, and welcoming locals, Osaka has become a hotspot for digital nomads looking to experience the best of Japan.
One of the main reasons Osaka digital nomads love this city is its affordability. Compared to other major Japanese cities like Tokyo or Kyoto, Osaka offers a relatively low cost of living, making it an attractive option for remote workers on a budget. Additionally, the city’s laid-back vibe and friendly locals make it easy to settle in and feel at home.
🏘️ Best Neighborhoods for Digital Nomads
When it comes to choosing a neighborhood to stay in Osaka, there are several options to consider. Here are three of my favorite areas that offer a great balance of affordability, amenities, and atmosphere:
- Shinsaibashi: This bustling neighborhood is located in the heart of Osaka and is known for its vibrant nightlife, delicious food, and trendy shopping streets. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Shinsaibashi can range from ¥60,000 to ¥120,000 (approximately $550-$1,100 USD) per month.
- Honmachi: This charming neighborhood is located just a short walk from Shinsaibashi and offers a more laid-back atmosphere, with plenty of cafes, restaurants, and parks to explore. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Honmachi can range from ¥50,000 to ¥100,000 (approximately $450-$900 USD) per month.
- Namba: This popular neighborhood is located in the southern part of Osaka and is known for its lively atmosphere, with plenty of bars, clubs, and live music venues to choose from. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Namba can range from ¥40,000 to ¥90,000 (approximately $350-$800 USD) per month.
Cost of Living Breakdown
The cost of living in Osaka is relatively affordable, especially when compared to other major Japanese cities. Here’s a breakdown of some typical expenses to expect:
- Rent: As mentioned earlier, rent for a one-bedroom apartment can range from ¥40,000 to ¥120,000 (approximately $350-$1,100 USD) per month, depending on the neighborhood and amenities.
- Food: Eating out in Osaka can be very affordable, with a meal at a mid-range restaurant costing around ¥500-¥1,000 (approximately $4-$9 USD) per person. Groceries can also be purchased at a relatively low cost, with a basket of basic items (rice, noodles, vegetables, etc.) costing around ¥2,000-¥3,000 (approximately $18-$28 USD) per week.
- Transportation: Osaka has a comprehensive public transportation system, with a single ride on the subway or bus costing around ¥240 (approximately $2.20 USD). A monthly pass can be purchased for around ¥2,500 (approximately $23 USD).
- Coworking: There are several coworking spaces in Osaka, with prices ranging from ¥2,000 to ¥5,000 (approximately $18-$45 USD) per day, depending on the amenities and location.
Internet & Coworking
Osaka has a well-developed internet infrastructure, with fast and reliable connections available throughout the city. Here are some popular coworking spaces and cafes with good internet speeds:
- WeWork Osaka: Located in the heart of Shinsaibashi, this coworking space offers fast internet speeds of up to 100 Mbps and a range of amenities, including meeting rooms and a rooftop terrace. Prices start at around ¥5,000 (approximately $45 USD) per day.
- Coworking Space Osaka: Located in the Honmachi neighborhood, this coworking space offers internet speeds of up to 50 Mbps and a range of amenities, including a kitchen and lounge area. Prices start at around ¥2,000 (approximately $18 USD) per day.
- Tully’s Coffee: This popular coffee chain has several locations throughout Osaka and offers fast internet speeds of up to 20 Mbps. Prices start at around ¥200 (approximately $2 USD) per hour.
Osaka has a growing digital nomad community, with several meetups and events taking place throughout the year. Here are some popular groups and events to check out:
- Osaka Digital Nomads: This Facebook group has over 1,000 members and is a great place to connect with other remote workers and find out about upcoming events and meetups.
- Nomad Meetup Osaka: This meetup group hosts regular events, including coworking sessions, language exchange, and social gatherings.
- Osaka Expats: This group is geared towards expats living in Osaka, but also welcomes digital nomads and remote workers. They host regular events, including happy hours, cultural events, and outdoor activities.
Culture & Lifestyle
Osaka is a city that’s deeply rooted in tradition, but also embraces modernity and innovation. Here are some local customs and cultural nuances to keep in mind:
- Food culture: Osaka is famous for its delicious food, with popular dishes including takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and kushikatsu. Be sure to try some of the local specialties at one of the many restaurants or street food stalls throughout the city.
- Social etiquette: In Japan, social etiquette is very important, and there are several customs to keep in mind, including bowing, using chopsticks correctly, and removing your shoes before entering a traditional home or temple.
- Nightlife: Osaka has a vibrant nightlife scene, with plenty of bars, clubs, and live music venues to choose from. Be sure to check out some of the local favorites, including the Dotonbori area and the Shinsekai neighborhood.
As a digital nomad, you’ll need to obtain a visa to enter Japan. Here are some options to consider:
- 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 valid for up to one year and allows you to work part-time while in Japan.
- Digital nomad visa: Unfortunately, Japan does not currently offer a specific digital nomad visa. However, the government has introduced a new visa category for “specified skilled workers,” which may be applicable to some remote workers.
💡 Practical Tips
Here are some practical tips to keep in mind when living and working in Osaka:
- SIM cards: You can purchase a SIM card at most convenience stores or electronics shops throughout the city. Prices start at around ¥2,000 (approximately $18 USD) per month.
- Transportation: Osaka has a comprehensive public transportation system, with a single ride on the subway or bus costing around ¥240 (approximately $2.20 USD). A monthly pass can be purchased for around ¥2,500 (approximately $23 USD).
- Safety: Osaka is generally a very safe city, but as with any major city, it’s always a good idea to take some basic precautions, such as avoiding walking alone in dimly lit areas at night and keeping an eye on your belongings.
- Weather: Osaka has a humid subtropical climate, with hot summers and mild winters. Be sure to pack accordingly, with light clothing for the summer months and warm clothing for the winter months.
