Tokyo Right Now
Protests expected in Tokyo on May 19 and May 29, with localized disruptions to public transport and traffic.
Best time to visit
Good time to visit
May offers pleasant weather with average highs around 23°C (73°F), though expect about ten rainy days. It's a popular time to visit, so popular attractions will likely be busy.
SCORE BY MONTH
Visit Tokyo in April, May, October, or November for pleasant temperatures and less rain. Avoid June through September when it's hot, humid, and rainy, making sightseeing uncomfortable.
Visitor data: Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) 2019 2019
Day-to-day in Tokyo
Walkability
92/100
Tokyo's sidewalks are a marvel of urban planning, mostly wide and clear, making exploration a pleasure. The city's dense layout means shops, restaurants, and services are always within easy reach on foot.
Pedestrian paths are generally continuous and well-maintained, though occasional narrowness and vendor encroachment occur.
Most visitor hubs offer immediate access to daily needs and dining within a short, easy stroll.
Drivers are exceptionally courteous, pedestrian crossings are respected, and traffic flow is remarkably orderly.
A few months are tough on walkers, but the rest of the year is workable for daily outdoor time.
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Monthly cost
$1,623 / month
MID-RANGESolo mid-range stay including rent, daily eating out, groceries, and routine costs.
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SPECIALTY COFFEE
Tokyo has a strong, evolving specialty coffee scene with many homegrown roasters. Look for unique spots in Shibuya, Omotesando, and Kiyosumi Shirakawa. Many cafes focus solely on coffee, with limited food options.
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Coworking
$232 / month
AFFORDABLEThe coworking scene is huge, especially in Shibuya, Shinjuku, and Roppongi. Expect modern hubs with good transport access. Many offer day passes, making it easy to find a desk.
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Gym
$66 / month
AFFORDABLEGym memberships are pricey at $66/month. Commercial chains like Gold's Gym are dominant, with locations in Shibuya, Omotesando, and Ginza. Public sports centers are a cheaper option.
Need to Know
- Currency
- Japanese Yen (JPY)
- Language
- Japanese, with practical English in major Tokyo tourist areas and transport hubs.
- Tap water
- Safe to drink
- Time zone
- GMT+9 (JST)
- Power plug
- Type A / B, 100V
- Dialling code
- +81
- Driving side
- Left
- Tipping
- Tipping is not customary and can be considered rude; service is included.
- Internet
- Mobile internet is fast and reliable across Tokyo, including subways. Public Wi-Fi is available but can be inconsistent.
- Emergency
- 110 (police), 119 (ambulance/fire), 118 (coast guard)
Tokyo itineraries
Upcoming Events & Holidays
Upcoming events — next 30 days
On the horizon
Public holidays & observances — next 12 months
Dates are researched and checked, but events move. Always confirm with the official source before you book anything around them.
Getting To Tokyo
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Narita International Airport NRT
Tokyo's primary international gateway, 60-80 km east of central Tokyo.
Narita is a major hub, with three terminals. The Narita Express (N'EX) is the fastest train option, taking about 50-60 minutes to Tokyo Station. The Airport Bus TYO-NRT is a budget-friendly bus option, costing ¥1,500 (around $10 USD) to Tokyo Station. Taxis are expensive, typically ¥16,000-¥30,000+ (around $100-$200+ USD) to central Tokyo.
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Haneda Airport HND
Closer to central Tokyo, about 14 km from the city center.
Haneda offers quick access to the city. The Tokyo Monorail connects to Hamamatsucho Station, where you can transfer to the JR Yamanote Line. The Keikyu Line is another train option, reaching Shinagawa Station in about 13 minutes. Airport Limousine Buses also provide direct service to major hotels and stations.
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Immigration and entry process
Visa-free entry for many nationalities for short-term tourism.
Citizens from the US, UK, EU, and Australia do not need a visa for short-term tourist stays, typically up to 90 days. Your passport must be valid for the entire duration of your stay. You will need to complete immigration and customs declarations, which can be done in advance using the Visit Japan Web online system to generate QR codes. There are no specific tourist taxes or levies upon arrival. All foreign visitors are fingerprinted and photographed upon entry.
Safety Advice
Tokyo is considered one of the safest cities globally, with very low crime rates. However, petty theft can occur in crowded tourist areas, so remain aware of your surroundings. Natural disasters like earthquakes are a concern, but the city is well-prepared for them.
Common Scams
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Hostess Bar Hidden Charges
HIGH RISKTrigger:A tout on the street approaches you with a 'special' offer for a bar or club, especially in Kabukicho or Roppongi.
Touts in Kabukicho and Roppongi lure tourists into bars with promises of cheap drinks or free entry. Once inside, the bill quickly escalates with hidden seating charges, hostess fees, and overpriced drinks, often reaching tens of thousands of yen. Refusal to pay can lead to intimidation by bouncers.
How to avoid: Do not engage with street touts. Always ask for a full, written price list before entering any establishment.
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Restaurant Overcharging
MEDIUM RISKTrigger:A street tout guides you to a restaurant, claiming it's an 'affiliated branch' of a popular chain, or you receive a bill with unexpected charges.
Some restaurants, particularly in tourist-heavy areas like Kabukicho and Shibuya, have separate, higher-priced menus for tourists or add hidden fees like seating charges, appetizer charges, or even 'weekend' or 'year-end' surcharges without clear disclosure.
How to avoid: Check online reviews and menus for clear pricing before entering. If touts approach you, politely decline.
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Fake Monk Donations
LOW RISKTrigger:Someone in monk attire approaches you and asks for money or tries to give you a trinket.
Individuals dressed as Buddhist monks approach tourists in public areas, especially around tourist sites and transportation hubs, asking for donations for religious purposes. Real Buddhist monks do not solicit donations in this manner.
How to avoid: Politely refuse and walk away. Do not engage or accept anything they offer.
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Spiked Drinks
HIGH RISKTrigger:You feel unusually intoxicated after a drink, or your drink was left unattended.
In some bars, particularly in Roppongi, drinks are spiked to incapacitate tourists, leading to credit card fraud or exorbitant charges. Victims often have little memory of the events.
How to avoid: Always keep your drink in sight. Pay with cash to limit potential credit card abuse.
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Unlicensed Taxis
MEDIUM RISKTrigger:A taxi has white plates with green letters, or a driver refuses to use the meter and quotes a flat, high price.
Around airports and major tourist spots, unlicensed taxis operate, often overcharging passengers significantly. These vehicles are not authorized to carry commercial passengers.
How to avoid: Use only officially branded taxis with yellow plates and green letters, or ride-sharing apps.
Mistakes to Avoid
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Loud Public Conversations
Speaking loudly on trains, buses, or in other public spaces is considered impolite and disruptive in Japan. This includes phone calls and conversations with travel companions.
Fix: Keep your voice down to match the general volume of locals, and set your phone to silent mode.
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Tipping for Service
Tipping is not customary in Japan and can be considered rude or confusing. Service staff are paid well and take pride in their work, so they do not expect additional compensation.
Fix: Do not leave tips for taxi drivers, restaurant staff, or hotel staff. A polite 'thank you' is sufficient.
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Eating or Vaping While Walking
Eating while walking is considered disrespectful in Japan, and vaping while walking is also frowned upon and can incur fines. Public consumption of food and vaping is generally restricted to designated areas.
Fix: Eat and vape only in designated areas or while seated.
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Ignoring Public Drinking Bans
SERIOUS CONSEQUENCEWhile public drinking is generally permitted in Japan, some areas, like Shibuya Ward, have implemented year-round bans on public alcohol consumption during specific hours (6:00 PM to 5:00 AM). Violations can lead to fines.
Fix: Check local ordinances for public drinking restrictions, especially in nightlife districts, and consume alcohol indoors or in designated areas.
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Littering
SERIOUS CONSEQUENCELittering is strictly prohibited in Tokyo, with fines ranging from ¥2,000 to ¥300,000 depending on the ward and severity. Public trash cans are scarce, requiring you to carry your trash until you find a proper disposal area.
Fix: Carry a small bag for your trash and dispose of it responsibly when you find a bin, or take it back to your accommodation.
Money & Payments
Tokyo is increasingly card-friendly, especially in major areas, but always carry yen for smaller shops, temples, and some restaurants.
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Cash is King (Still) While Tokyo embraces digital payments, cash remains essential for many smaller businesses, street food vendors, and some temples or shrines. Carry ¥1,000, ¥5,000, and ¥10,000 bills, plus plenty of ¥100 and ¥500 coins for vending machines and lockers.
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Cards Accepted, Contactless Growing Visa, Mastercard, and JCB are widely accepted at major hotels, department stores, and larger restaurants. American Express works in many places too. Contactless payments are common in convenience stores and are expanding rapidly on public transport, including Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway lines.
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Reliable ATMs 7-Eleven and Japan Post Bank ATMs are the most reliable for international cards and are often available 24/7. Look for ATMs with English language options. Withdrawal limits are typically ¥100,000 at 7-Eleven and ¥50,000 at Japan Post, though your bank's daily limit may be lower.
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Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC) Warning When paying with a card, if offered the choice to pay in your home currency or Japanese Yen, always choose Yen. Opting for your home currency (DCC) means the merchant sets an unfavorable exchange rate, costing you more.
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Local Mobile Payments PayPay, Line Pay, and Rakuten Pay are popular QR code payment apps in Japan. While some international apps like Apple Pay and Google Pay work when linked to a supported credit card, direct use of foreign mobile payment apps can be limited. Consider adding a Mobile Suica or Pasmo card to your smartphone for transit and small purchases.
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Departure Tax All travelers departing Japan by air or sea will pay a departure tax. This tax, currently ¥1,000, will increase to ¥3,000 per person from July 2026. It's typically included in your ticket price, so you won't pay it separately at the airport.
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International Transfers To send money to a bank account in Japan, for things like rent or day-to-day expenses, services like Wise or Remitly usually offer better rates than traditional banks and faster delivery.
You'll typically need the recipient's full name, account number, and SWIFT/BIC code. Some banks may also require a local address.
Costs in Tokyo
Tokyo is a city where rent is a significant expense, with a one-bedroom apartment in the city center averaging around ¥172,672 per month. While a Big Mac is relatively affordable at ¥3.15, the influx of foreign investment and a weak yen have driven up property prices and rents in prime locations.
SIM Cards & Data
Best option for most travellers: an eSIM you set up before you arrive. You'll be online the moment you land, with no airport queue and no tourist pricing.
Travel eSIMs Connect the second you land. Zero hassle. Skip the airport queue and paperwork. Activate before you fly and land connected. Find the best eSIM →Prefer a local SIM?
Tokyo's major tourist areas, including central districts like Shinjuku and Shibuya, and even popular spots further afield, generally have excellent 4G coverage with expanding 5G availability. Speeds are consistently reliable for essential travel needs like maps, ride-hail apps, messaging, and even video streaming.
Areas of Tokyo
- Neon, entertainment, gardens
Shinjuku
Shinjuku is a dense, high-energy district, famous for its towering skyscrapers, bright neon lights, and diverse entertainment options. West of Shinjuku Station, you'll find a cluster of skyscrapers, including the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building with its free observation deck. East of the station is a maze of shops, restaurants, and bars, including the lively Kabukicho and the narrow alleyways of Golden Gai. Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden offers a peaceful escape from the urban hustle.
Good for: First-time visitors who want a central, well-connected base with endless things to do day and night.
Skip if: You prefer quiet, traditional neighborhoods and early nights.
- Youth culture, shopping, iconic crossing
Shibuya
Shibuya is synonymous with youth fashion, trends, and the famous Shibuya Scramble Crossing, a chaotic but organized pedestrian intersection. The area around Shibuya Station is packed with department stores, boutiques, and restaurants. It's a loud, crowded district, especially around the station, with a constant flow of people and flashing advertisements. You'll find plenty of cafes, bars, and clubs here.
Good for: Fashion-forward travelers, nightlife seekers, and those who want to be in the thick of Tokyo's pop culture.
Skip if: You dislike crowds and prefer a more relaxed pace.
- Nightlife, art, expat hub
Roppongi
Roppongi is known for its energetic nightlife, with numerous bars, clubs, and international restaurants, attracting a diverse crowd including many expats. It also has an upscale side, with major art museums like the Mori Art Museum and luxury shopping complexes such as Roppongi Hills and Tokyo Midtown. The area can be loud and lively, especially around Roppongi Crossing after dark.
Good for: Party-goers, art enthusiasts, and those seeking an international atmosphere with diverse dining options.
Skip if: You prefer quiet evenings or are traveling with young children.
- Luxury shopping, fine dining, upscale
Ginza
Ginza is Tokyo's premier upscale shopping and dining district, known for its wide boulevards, designer boutiques, and department stores like Mitsukoshi and Takashimaya. It's a polished, sophisticated area with a more refined atmosphere than Shibuya or Shinjuku. Expect high-end art galleries, theaters, and Michelin-starred restaurants. The streets are generally clean and less overtly chaotic.
Good for: Luxury shoppers, foodies seeking high-end dining, and visitors who appreciate a refined urban experience.
Skip if: You are on a tight budget or prefer a more casual, 'local' feel.
- Transport hub, business, imperial palace
Tokyo Station Area (Marunouchi/Yaesu)
The Tokyo Station area is a major transportation hub, with the impressive red-brick Tokyo Station at its heart. The Marunouchi side is a business district with wide avenues, upscale shops, and direct access to the Imperial Palace East Garden. The Yaesu side has more shopping and dining, including Tokyo Character Street and Tokyo Ramen Street. It's busy during the day with commuters but quieter at night, especially in Marunouchi.
Good for: Business travelers, those prioritizing transport convenience, and visitors who want easy access to the Imperial Palace and Ginza.
Skip if: You want a neighborhood with a strong local character or vibrant evening street life.
- Anime, electronics, gaming
Akihabara
Akihabara, also called Akiba, is Tokyo's 'Electric Town' and the center of otaku culture. It's packed with multi-story arcades, manga shops, anime merchandise stores, and electronics retailers. The main street, Chuo Dori, is often closed to car traffic on Sundays, making it a pedestrian paradise. The area is vibrant, colorful, and can be overwhelming with sensory input.
Good for: Anime, manga, and video game fans, tech enthusiasts, and those looking for a unique subculture experience.
Skip if: You are not interested in pop culture, electronics, or crowds.
- Museums, park, traditional market
Ueno
Ueno is a unique blend of nature, culture, and traditional Tokyo. It's home to Ueno Park, which houses several museums, a zoo, and cherry blossom spots. Outside the park, you'll find the lively Ameyoko market, a bustling street with diverse stalls selling everything from fresh food to discounted goods. The area around the station is busy, but the park offers a peaceful contrast.
Good for: Families, museum lovers, those interested in a mix of culture and local market life, and visitors seeking good transport links.
Skip if: You prefer ultra-modern surroundings or a strong nightlife scene.
- Traditional Tokyo, temples, river views
Asakusa
Asakusa offers a glimpse into old Tokyo, centered around the historic Senso-ji Temple and its bustling Nakamise shopping street. The area has a traditional, 'shitamachi' (low city) vibe with smaller shops, craft stores, and many izakayas. It's generally less frantic than the modern hubs, with a slower pace, though the temple area itself is very popular and can be crowded during the day. You can also take Sumida River cruises from here.
Good for: Culture enthusiasts, those seeking traditional Japanese atmosphere, and visitors looking for budget-friendly accommodation.
Skip if: You want modern skyscrapers, buzzing nightlife, or extensive high-end shopping.
Frequently Asked Questions
Planning & moving around
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Which Tokyo neighborhood should I stay in for a first-time visit?
For first-timers, Shibuya and Shinjuku are excellent choices. They are central, well-connected by transit, and offer a mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment. Shibuya is known for its youthful energy, while Shinjuku has a more diverse range of options, including business districts and entertainment hubs like Kabukicho.
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How many days do you need in Tokyo?
Most travelers find 3-7 days sufficient to explore Tokyo's main sights without feeling rushed. A 3-day trip covers major highlights, while 5-7 days allows for deeper exploration of neighborhoods, authentic experiences like sushi making, and day trips outside the city.
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What are the best day trips from Tokyo?
Popular day trips include Mount Fuji and the lake town of Kawaguchiko, Nikko with its shrines and natural beauty, and Kamakura for its temples and coastal charm. Hakone is another great option for art, nature, and relaxation.
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Is it better to use public transport or rent a scooter in Tokyo?
Public transport is the way to go in Tokyo. The city has an incredibly efficient and extensive train and subway system. Scooters are not a common mode of transport for tourists, and navigating Tokyo's dense traffic and complex road rules can be challenging.
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What travel apps should I download for Tokyo?
Google Maps is essential for navigating the public transit system. Translation apps are also helpful, and a good Wi-Fi or eSIM connection is crucial for using these apps on the go.
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What is the dating scene like in Tokyo for foreigners?
The dating scene in Tokyo can be varied. While there are many opportunities to meet people, cultural differences and language barriers can be factors. International districts like Roppongi might have a more expat-friendly dating scene.
Safety & medical
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Is Tokyo safe to walk alone at night?
Yes, Tokyo is very safe for walking alone at night. It has a low crime rate, well-lit streets, and a visible police presence. Major areas like Shibuya and Shinjuku remain busy late into the night.
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What should I do if I get sick in Tokyo?
For minor ailments, pharmacies are widely available. For more serious concerns, seek out a hospital. It's always wise to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
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Do I need travel insurance for Japan?
Yes, travel insurance is highly recommended. Japan's digital nomad visa, for example, requires applicants to have health insurance with at least 10 million JPY in coverage for injury, illness, and death.
Laws & local norms
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What are the laws about drugs in Japan for foreigners?
Japan has a zero-tolerance policy on drugs, including marijuana, even if it's legal in your home country. Possession of even small amounts can lead to immediate arrest, long-term detention, and severe penalties including imprisonment and deportation.
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Are there specific vaping laws in Tokyo?
While not as strict as some drug laws, be aware that public smoking, including vaping, is often restricted to designated areas. Some districts, like Shibuya, have ordinances against public drinking and smoking.
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Is Tokyo LGBTQ+ friendly?
Tokyo is one of Japan's more LGBTQ+ friendly jurisdictions. The Tokyo Metropolitan Assembly passed a law in 2018 prohibiting discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity, which took effect in April 2019. Some wards like Shibuya and Setagaya had protections even earlier.
Money & costs
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Is tipping customary in Tokyo restaurants?
No, tipping is not customary in Japan. Excellent service is expected, and attempting to tip can sometimes be seen as confusing or even rude.
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Is Tokyo cash or card based?
While cards are accepted in many places, cash is still widely used, especially at smaller shops, some restaurants, and for certain activities like the Mount Takao cable car. It's wise to carry some yen.
Culture & etiquette
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What is the dress code for temples and shrines in Tokyo?
When visiting temples and shrines, dress respectfully. This means avoiding overly revealing clothing. Speak softly and be mindful that these are active places of worship.
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What are some important Japanese etiquette rules for tourists?
Be polite, quiet in public spaces like trains, and respect queues. Remove your shoes when entering homes, some restaurants, temples, and museums. Tipping is not customary.
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Is it rude to take photos of people in Tokyo?
Be mindful when taking photos. While outdoor areas are generally fine, always check for signs or observe local behavior regarding photography in indoor halls or at cultural sites. Avoid taking photos of people without their permission.
Food & drink
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Where do locals eat in Tokyo?
For local experiences, explore the small restaurants and bars in areas like Shinbashi, Shinjuku, Ebisu, and Akabane. Tsukishima is known for its monja-yaki, a local specialty.
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What are some must-try dishes in Tokyo?
You must try Edomae sushi, tempura, and monja-yaki. Other popular dishes include ramen, yakitori (grilled chicken skewers), gyoza, and tonkatsu (deep-fried pork cutlets).
Families
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What are the best things to do in Tokyo with kids?
Tokyo offers many kid-friendly activities. Consider Tokyo Disney Resort, Tokyo Skytree, the National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation (Miraikan) in Odaiba, or the Ghibli Museum. Parks like Yoyogi Park and Ueno Park are also good options.
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Is Tokyo stroller-friendly?
Tokyo is generally stroller-friendly, with an efficient public transport system that makes getting around easy. However, some areas, like the walk up to Meiji Shrine, can be quite long, so a lightweight travel stroller is recommended.
Staying
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Can I get a digital nomad visa for Japan?
Yes, Japan introduced a digital nomad visa in 2024. It allows remote workers to stay for up to six months, with no extensions. You need to have a contract for remote work with a company outside Japan and an annual income of at least 10 million JPY.
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Do I need a VPN in Japan?
While Japan does not have extensive internet censorship, a VPN can be useful for accessing geo-restricted content from your home country or for added security on public Wi-Fi networks.
After-dark
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What are the best nightlife areas in Tokyo?
Shinjuku, Shibuya, and Roppongi are the main nightlife districts. Shinjuku offers diverse entertainment including Kabukicho and the tiny bars of Golden Gai. Shibuya is popular with a younger crowd and has many clubs. Roppongi attracts an international clientele with upscale bars and clubs.