Coworking spaces are an excellent way to network and meet both locals and other foreigners who live in Tokyo, or are just passing through. There is a long list of both casual, modern, and luxury coworking offices to choose from, but here are some of our top picks for English-speaking travelers and expats.
Samurai Startup Island, Higashishinagawa, Shinagawa Ward, Tokyo
There’s no shortage of coworking spaces to choose from in Tokyo, but what foreigners will appreciate most about Samurai Startup Island are their spacious and thoughtful facilities. Yes, you may be at a group desk with six other professionals, but the overall space isn’t at all cramped. The space is also versatile, with access to hangout rooms, private Skype space, conference rooms, and event spaces for up to 120 people. While SSI also has a self-service kitchen, you may prefer to venture to one of the many hip bayside cafés, restaurants, and bars.
One day drop-ins are welcome, but it is best to apply ahead of time. If you will be using the space more than 3 days, SSI offers a discount on the 2000 yen/day rate. Enjoy standard coworking amenities, Wi-Fi, printer, scanner, shredder, cutting machine, lockers, and more.
Connecting The Dots, Jinnan & Yoyogi, Shibuya Ward, Tokyo
Connecting the Dots has two locations in the popular Shibuya area of the city. Both are large, multi-floor spaces that offer a variety of casual coworking areas to meet your needs. Drop-in, part-time, or monthly access plans are available, with drop-in rates as low as 1350 yen/day. Host meetings, workshops, and events, come with your team, or spend the day there solo.
Amenities include a printer, fax machine, scanner, kitchen, Wi-Fi, and extra monitors if needed. With simple but modern decor Connecting the Dots is a no-frills place to get work done in a community of like-minded professionals.
The Snack, Ginza, Chuo Ward, Tokyo
The Snack is more than just a coworking space, as they also have an impressive café. While not as spacious as some other spaces, it’s well laid-out and has a variety of thoughtful workspaces — from outward-facing desks that allow you to gaze out at the city, to shared tables, couches, chairs, and loungers.
This hip space is full of young creatives by day and fun events by night. Their daily rate is also a bit lower than most, at just 1500 yen per day. Their small group meeting rooms are always available for rent.
PAX, Kyodo, Setagaya Ward, Tokyo
You might forget you’re in Tokyo while working in PAX, as this coworking spot was designed for the international community. Choose from full-time, part-time, nomad access, inquire about a free one-time-only drop-in. The space doesn’t offer much in terms of professional amenities, but Wi-Fi, library, lockers, and event spaces are available.
With such a diverse community of global coworkers, PAX is the perfect place to network on work breaks. Full-time members enjoy 24-hour access.
Creative Lounge MOV, Shibuya Station, Shibuya Ward, Tokyo
Located in the heart of Tokyo, this trendy coworking lounge is the ideal place for international travelers to pop in and get some work done. Monthly plans are most popular, but you can opt for an hourly rate of 800 yen. The layout really does create a lounge feel more so than an office workspace.
Many of the walls are lined with park-style benches, and the split-level shared spaces have a variety of desks, couches, chairs, and comfy working spaces. Those looking for a bit more privacy can rent a mini-booth that seats one or two on a monthly basis. You can host meetings and events in their meeting spaces or rent out one of the three showcase spaces for marketing and promotions.