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Japan not only attracts with its ancient temples, exquisite cuisine, or futuristic cities. It has also become an increasingly popular destination for digital nomads, students, and remote workers looking to live a prolonged experience in a safe, stimulating, and culturally unique environment. And if there’s one thing that’s growing in this context, it’s the spaces where work, accommodation, and community converge to provide a different living experience. Today, we’ll talk about various coliving spaces in Japan.

Unlike a hotel or Airbnb, a coliving space will allow you to stay in Japan for several months while connecting with like-minded individuals, accessing good internet, sharing costs, and engaging in local activities. In cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, options exist for both foreigners and Japanese people who prefer a more flexible and collaborative lifestyle. However, the offer doesn’t just extend to major cities. We’ll explore Japan’s map to find coliving alternatives where you can live and work at the same time.

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What are the benefits of coliving in Japan?

Living in Japan for a while can be as exciting as it is challenging. In a country where the language, cultural norms, or long-term rental contracts can make adaptation difficult, coliving spaces offer a practical, comfortable, and enriching solution, especially for those arriving alone.

Here are some reasons why this option is worth considering in Japan:

  • Easy access with no local bureaucracy: Many traditional rentals require a Japanese guarantor, a minimum one-year contract, and a high deposit. In contrast, coliving spaces allow for an easy move-in with no need for a local guarantor or complicated paperwork.
  • Excellent internet quality: Most coliving spaces in Japan offer high-speed WiFi, stable connections, and setups ideal for remote work. This sets them apart from many Airbnb rentals or cheap hostels that don’t guarantee good connectivity.
  • Multicultural and local community: Unlike a hotel where you’re isolated or an apartment where you don’t know anyone, coliving lets you integrate from day one. Many spaces in Japan foster community with events, shared meals, or cultural classes (such as cooking, calligraphy, or language), further encouraging the creation of both professional and personal connections.
  • Functional design and Japanese aesthetics: From tatamis and sliding doors to ultra-clean shared bathrooms and minimalist common areas, many colivings in Japan combine modern comfort with tradition. Experiencing this aesthetic up close is part of the appeal.
  • Well-connected locations: The best colivings are located in strategic areas of Tokyo, Kyoto, or Osaka, with easy access to metro, trains, or bike routes. This allows you to explore the country, work in cafés, or move around without the need for a car.
  • More affordable than hotels or Airbnb per month: Staying in a hotel or Airbnb for several weeks can quickly escalate costs. A coliving space lets you reduce expenses by sharing kitchens, common areas, and utilities, without sacrificing privacy or quality.

What are the five best colivings in Japan?

Colivings in Japan aren’t just a trend: They’ve become a genuine option for those seeking more than just a place to sleep. But, of course, choosing the best one in a country with such large and diverse cities isn’t easy. To help you with the task, we’ve compiled a selection of five spaces offering a good mix of location, quality facilities, active community, and services designed for medium or long-term stays.

You’ll find options in well-connected areas, both in the heart of vibrant cities and in quieter regions where the pace of life is slower. Some spaces focus on the Japanese cultural experience, while others are designed for digital nomads who need good internet and total flexibility. Whatever your preference, these five colivings in Japan stand out, whether for their community, design, or the experience they offer beyond just accommodation.

Advantages of Coliving in japan
Living in a coliving guarantees you access to high-speed internet, included services, and networking all in one place – @Shutterstock

1- HafH Fukuoka THE LIFE – Boutique-style coliving in the heart of Fukuoka

HafH Fukuoka THE LIFE opened its doors in February 2020 as the first coliving space within the HafH (Home Away From Home) network. It’s located in the Hakata district, just a 10-minute walk from JR Hakata Station, with excellent access to the metro, airport, and key areas like Canal City and Nakasu. The space is culturally inclusive, accepting diversity and promoting mixed communities.

As for its location, Fukuoka can be a great choice for living in Japan. In fact, it’s one of the most vibrant and accessible cities in Japan for digital nomads. It offers a lower cost of living than Tokyo or Osaka, excellent cuisine, great air and rail connectivity, and a growing creative community.

Additionally, its medium size makes it easy to get around, with nearby beaches, mild weather, and an expanding coworking space network. All this makes Fukuoka the ideal base for those seeking a balance between productivity and quality of life.

Spaces and services

HafH Fukuoka THE LIFE offers private rooms and premium dormitory bunks that provide extra privacy, a personal desk, and curtains. It also has a third floor that serves as a communal living area, combining reception, café-bar, lounge, fully equipped shared kitchen, and comfortable workspaces. Additionally, there’s a bright terrace where you can work, relax, or socialise outdoors.

The space includes Wi-Fi in all areas, laundry, kitchen, lounge, bar and restaurant, as well as essential services such as electricity and cleaning. It also offers bicycle rentals, ideal for exploring the city in a local style.

Events and community

As you know, the great benefit of living in a coliving space is that it allows you to connect with nomads and workers from all over the world. That’s why it’s common for these spaces to organise events to strengthen bonds between residents.

In this regard, HafH Fukuoka THE LIFE runs programs such as “Artist in Residence”, where creators can stay for free in exchange for exhibitions or installations for one month. It also hosts social and cultural events in its common areas, fostering interaction between residents.

Prices, memberships, and access

  • Premium bunk beds: Around ¥3,600 per night ($24, €21.90) for HafH members, and from ¥2,600 for regular bunks ($18, €16.50).
  • Private rooms (double/queen): Between ¥7,400 and ¥8,600 per night ($50-58, €46-53).
  • No mandatory local membership required for access, although the HafH model includes a coin system (HafH Coins) for reservations among members.

Why is it an interesting coliving option in Japan?

HafH Fukuoka THE LIFE blends the intimate feeling of coliving with the support of a solid network. Its strategic location, carefully designed common spaces, cultural events, and inclusive approach make it an attractive option for digital nomads, creatives, and professionals looking for a vibrant and welcoming environment. Furthermore, the flexible room options cater to both short and medium-term stays, maintaining an ideal balance between community, comfort, and autonomy.

Coliving in Fukoka
Fukuoka is one of Japan’s most accessible cities for digital nomads – @Shutterstock

2- UNPLAN Kagurazaka – Modern hostel with a coliving spirit in the heart of Tokyo

Although technically UNPLAN Kagurazaka is a modern hostel, its international atmosphere, shared spaces, and functional design make it one of the best hybrid options between coliving and temporary accommodation for digital nomads in Tokyo. Located in Kagurazaka, a traditional and charming neighbourhood in the Shinjuku district, it offers cobbled streets, independent cafés, and a village-like atmosphere within the world’s largest city.

Tokyo, for its part, is a magnet for professionals from all over the world: It boasts excellent connectivity, cutting-edge technology, an endless cultural agenda, and a growing community of remote workers. Although living here is not the most economical, accommodations like this make it possible to enjoy the Japanese capital without compromising on comfort or productivity.

Spaces and services

UNPLAN offers various types of rooms, from capsule bunks in mixed dormitories to private double or quadruple rooms. It is designed for both short stays and those staying weeks or even months in Japan. Each bunk has power outlets, individual lights, curtains for privacy, and storage space for belongings.

One of the most valued points by digital nomads is its lounge area open all daywith sofas, long tables, and good lighting. While it is not a formal coworking space, it is perfectly functional for working on your laptop, making video calls, or focusing. There is also a café-bar on the ground floor, ideal for socialising, working with coffee, or ending the day with a beer. The interior design is minimalist, modern, and welcoming, with a light palette and natural materials that convey calm.

The establishment can accommodate over 40 people, making it a dynamic space, but without losing warmth. The entire atmosphere is optimised for shared living with no friction: Communal kitchen, reading spaces, personal lockers, spacious showers, relaxation areas, and a terrace.

Regarding services, UNPLAN includes high-speed Wi-Fi in all areas, bed linens, towels, lockers, air conditioning/heating, an equipped kitchen, paid laundry, and 24-hour reception. While no structured classes or regular activities are offered, some weeks there are social events or themed nights.

Prices, memberships, and access

Prices depend on the season, but as a guideline:

  • Shared dormitories: From ¥3,200 per night (($22, €20).
  • Private double rooms: From ¥8,000 to ¥10,000 per night ($54-68, €49-62).
  • Discounts available for long stays through direct contact or platforms like Booking.
  • Reservations can be made online, and availability for long stays can be checked.

Why is this a great alternative to traditional coliving?

Although UNPLAN Kagurazaka doesn’t present itself as a coliving space, its international atmosphere, common areas designed for socialising and working, and its privileged location make it an excellent temporary base for digital nomads in Tokyo.

The option to choose between privacy or interaction, combined with its competitive prices, makes it a highly interesting alternative for those seeking a flexible, well-connected experience with everything essential to live and work in the Japanese capital.

living and working there can be an incredible experience for any digital nomad
Although Tokyo is the most expensive city in Japan, living and working there can be an incredible experience for any digital nomad – @Shutterstock

3- Colive Kyoto Taikoukyo – Creative coliving between nature and the city

Colive Kyoto Taikoukyo is a coliving space located in the southwestern mountainous area of Kyoto, just 30 minutes by train from the city centre. This space is part of the Achicochi network, which promotes alternative lifestyles in rural areas of Japan, combining remote work, community, and contact with nature. Unlike other urban colivings, this project focuses on sustainability and reconnection with the natural environment, without sacrificing connectivity.

Kyoto, with its immense cultural richness, slower pace, and growing ecosystem of remote workers, is a perfect destination for those seeking an authentic Japanese experience, creativity, and a closer connection to local life.

Spaces and services

Colive Kyoto Taikoukyo is located in a renovated primary school building, giving it a nostalgic and spacious feel. The rooms are on the second floor, private, and feature traditional Japanese style, with tatami mats and sliding doors. The spaces are large and versatile, from a multi-purpose lounge for coworking and workshops to classrooms converted into reading spaces, artistic creation, or meeting areas. There is also a shared kitchen, bathrooms, and relaxation areas.

The interior maintains the original structure of the school but has been renovated with recycled materials and conscious design. There is heating, natural lighting, and wooden details. Outside, the open space invites gatherings, picnics, or yoga sessions on the grass. In fact, the natural environment is one of its biggest differentiators.

The stay includes: A private room, access to an equipped kitchen, common workspaces, WiFi, heating, and basic cleaning. Food is not included, but there are cultivation spaces, and residents often organise shared shopping and meals.

No structured classes are offered, but workshops, talks, or activities among residents are encouraged as part of the community model.

There is space for up to 10 people living together at the same time, promoting an intimate and relaxed dynamic. However, this limited availability makes it necessary to book in advance. The experience is designed for minimum stays of one week, although many residents opt to stay for a month or longer.

Prices and stay duration

Prices are set by the week and include all basic services:

  • ¥20,000 per week ($135, €123).
  • Minimum stay: Seven nights.
  • No memberships required, but applications can be made via a simple form on the website.

Payments are made upon arrival, and no formal contracts are required, making it a very accessible option for those wanting to try the coliving lifestyle without long-term commitments.

Why is it a great coliving alternative in Japan?

Colive Kyoto Taikoukyo offers a very different experience compared to urban colivings: The key is to slow down, reconnect with nature, and explore a more collaborative and mindful lifestyle. Its rural setting, the building’s history, and the small resident community create an ideal atmosphere for those seeking inspiration, focus, or a creative break. It’s an excellent alternative for digital nomads, artists, or entrepreneurs who value balance between work, community, and well-being.

4- &AND HOSTEL HOMMACHI EAST – Modern hostel with a community vibe in Osaka

This space presents itself as a hybrid between coliving and hostel, with an emphasis on technology and comfort. With an excellent location in Osaka, it’s ideal for those travelling for work and wanting to combine privacy with shared spaces.

&AND HOSTEL HOMMACHI EAST stands out for its welcoming atmosphere, versatile common spaces, and international profile, making it a great alternative for digital nomads and short stays in Osaka. It’s located in Chūō-ku, just a five-minute walk from two key metro stations: Sakaisuji-Hommachi and Tanimachi-yonchōme, which places it in a strategic position to move around the city.

Spaces and services

The hostel offers multiple room types: From mixed dorms (capsule bunks with curtains, USB ports, and individual comfort) to private double, family, and quadruple rooms, some with private bathrooms. In total, it can accommodate dozens of guests, with options for solo travellers or groups.

On the ground floor and rooftop, you’ll find a modern lounge, communal kitchen, living room, and café-bar. While not a formal coworking space, these areas allow you to work comfortably, take advantage of the Wi-Fi, prepare a coffee, or socialise.

The interior design is elegant and functional, with contemporary furniture. It also features a sky lounge on the rooftop offering panoramic views of the city and an excellent spot to relax or work outdoors. The proximity to cafés and parks also expands your available spaces.

The price includes Wi-Fi in all areas, cleaning, communal kitchen, receptionluggage storage, and laundry. Towels, hygiene kits, and the lounge also have vending machines and occasional happy hours. Some additional extras such as breakfast or snacks are offered for an extra cost.

Events and community

The hostel offers a lively and multicultural environment, ideal for those travelling solo or temporarily. It has multilingual staff, casual events like happy hours, spaces for talks, and a good connection with other travellers, making it easy to network, make friends, or collaborate informally.

Examples of leisure costs

According to platforms like Booking.com and Tripadvisor, the price range is:

  • Mixed dorm (bunk): From $45 (€41)/night.
  • Private double room: Between $60–75 (€55–69)/night., depending on season and availability.

Why choose this coliving in Osaka?

&AND HOSTEL HOMMACHI EAST is a smart choice if you’re looking for a flexible, well-connected, practical, and social option in Osaka. Although it doesn’t offer long-term stay formulas or residential memberships, its atmosphere, friendly common spaces, and central location make it ideal for digital nomads in transit, people on secondary trips, or those looking for a comfortable, dynamic base without complicated procedures.

Coliving in Osaka
Famous for its castle, Osaka is another of Japan’s best cities for nomads and remote workers – @Shutterstock

5- Borderless House Kobe – Multicultural coliving in Kobe

Borderless House Kobe-Motomachi1 is not exclusively defined as a coliving space, but it functions as a multicultural share house ideal for digital nomads. Located in Motomachi, in the heart of Kobe, it’s just a four-minute walk from the JR/Hanshin Motomachi station and three minutes from the Kenchō-mae metro station. This strategic location puts you near shops, Chinatown (Nankin-machi), Kobe’s Port, and the bustling Sannomiya area.

For its part, Kobe is a city close to Osaka that stands out for its modernity and traditional atmosphere, affordable prices, cleanliness, and established international community. Therefore, it can be another great destination for nomads, students, and workers travelling across Japan.

Spaces and services

This share house accommodates between 10 and 14 people in a family-like environment. The residence is designed for small groups, promoting close connections between Japanese and foreign residents. It has private and shared rooms, a fully equipped kitchen, dining area, and living room with spaces to work, socialise, and share.

The house is fully furnished and ready for you to move in without complications. While there are no gardens or terraces, its urban environment offers parks, cafés, and cultural areas to explore outdoors.

The accommodation includes free Wi-Fi, use of appliances like washing machines, microwaves, and other kitchen essentials. The rooms come with beds, desks, shelves, and air conditioning. There are no hidden fees, and there is no need to bring furniture.

Community and Events

Half of the residents are local, and the other half are foreigners, creating an excellent balance for facilitating cultural exchange and language learning. The community often participates in cultural events, language exchanges, and local activities, promoting an enriching living experience.

Prices, plans, and memberships

  • Private room: Around ¥54,000 per month ($366, €337), plus ¥10,000 for monthly utilities ($68, €63).
  • Shared room: Around ¥42,000 per month ($285, €264), plus ¥7,000 for utilities ($47, €43).
  • A security deposit of ¥20,000 ($136, €125) is required, with no registration fee. The minimum stay is one month.

Why choose Borderless House Kobe?

Borderless House Kobe offers a solid option for those looking for real shared living with a diverse community, without sacrificing privacy. Its multicultural formula, transparent services, and central location make it a very valuable alternative to live and work from a quiet, safe, and charismatic city like Kobe.

Coliving spaces in Japan, Kobe city
Kobe is a clean, modern, and safe Japanese city, perfect for spending a season living in a coliving space – @Shutterstock

Which is the best coliving in Japan?

As you can imagine, this question doesn’t have a straightforward answer. Japan is a country of contrasts, and its coliving spaces reflect that diversity. From the most contemplative natural environments to the most vibrant urban neighbourhoods, each of the accommodations we explored caters to different types of digital nomads. Therefore, the best coliving in Japan will depend, among other things, on your nomadic profile.

If urban life, movement, culture, and good connectivity are your thing, options like UNPLAN Kagurazaka (Tokyo) or &AND HOSTEL HOMMACHI EAST (Osaka) offer that rhythm without compromising on common spaces and areas to work comfortably. On the other hand, if you prefer a balance between city and multicultural community, Borderless House Kobe offers the added bonus of real cultural exchange with locals and foreigners in a safe and relaxed environment.

If reconnecting with nature, creative inspiration, or a slower routine is your priority, Colive Kyoto Taikoukyo is a unique retreat. And if you need a well-thought-out space to live and work without complications, HafH Fukuoka THE LIFE brings together design, community, and a fantastic environment for mid to long-term stays.

Again, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. The best coliving will be the one that aligns with your travel style, your way of working, and what you want to take away from your time in Japan. Fortunately, this country has an option for every type of nomad.

Connectivity in Japan: Uninterrupted internet with Holafly

If you’re going to live in Japan for a while, don’t risk relying on the coliving’s Wi-Fi or local SIM cards that run out in just a few days. The best way to have internet from the moment you land is with a Holafly eSIM for Japan.

With it, you’ll have unlimited data without the need to change your number or remove a physical chip from your phone. You activate the eSIM in minutes by scanning a QR code and you’re connected. Ideal for those who need to work, use Google Maps, translate in real time, or simply stay online without surprises.

If you’re going to stay for a while in Japan, opting for Holafly’s monthly plans  with unlimited data is the best option. They work through a subscription that automatically renews each month and can be cancelled anytime. Therefore, you don’t need to worry about anything. Plus, the biggest advantage is that the same plan works in more than 170 countries worldwide, including Japan and many other Asian destinations.

One way or another, Holafly will accompany you on your journey to the land of the rising sun.

Important: If you are a frequent traveler and want to stay connected without worrying about expensive roaming or looking for a new SIM at every destination, Holafly’s subscription plans are for you. With a single eSIM, enjoy internet in more than 170 countries for a fixed price and no surprises on your bill. Travel without limits and connect easily and securely! 🚀🌍

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