Digital Nomad Life in Asia: Where to Live and What to Eat Nearby
Have you ever dreamed of working while exploring the world? Imagine opening your laptop in a cozy café, finishing your morning tasks, then strolling through the streets of Tokyo, Seoul, or Singapore in the afternoon. That’s the essence of digital nomad life—flexible, free, and full of discovery. Asia offers a wide range of cities perfect for remote workers, with lower living costs than Western countries and excellent internet infrastructure. And let’s not forget: the food scene is absolutely irresistible.
In recent years, many Asian countries have introduced nomad-friendly visa policies, making short- to mid-term stays easier than ever. This guide explores where digital nomads live in Asia, highlighting top cities, ideal accommodations, local food tips, and practical lifestyle advice. Ready to start your journey as a digital nomad in Asia?
1. Overview of Popular Digital Nomad Cities in Asia
Asia’s cities are incredibly diverse, some are fast-paced and creative, others are laid-back and deeply rooted in local culture. For remote workers, choosing where to live as a digital nomad is the first step toward building your ideal lifestyle. Here are some of the most popular destinations:
Japan’s Tokyo for Digital Nomads
As one of Asia’s most modern cities, Tokyo is a top destination for digital nomads seeking efficient public transport, world-class internet, and a safe, stable environment. Japan has introduced long-stay visa options such as the “Digital Nomad Visa” and “Highly Skilled Professional Visa,” allowing remote workers to stay legally for up to six months.
The city is packed with co-working spaces and stylish cafés, especially in Shibuya, Omotesando, and Daikanyama, ideal for freelancers and creatives. With its multicultural vibe and innovative energy, digital nomad Tokyo offers endless inspiration and opportunities for cross-cultural exchange.
Where to Stay in Tokyo:
- Short-term: Capsule hotels are a unique and budget-friendly choice, perfect for brief stays or transitions between cities.
- Mid- to long-term: Weave Living provides modern, fully equipped properties in Ueno, Asakusa, Kanda etc, ideal for digital nomads seeking a stable work-life setup.
What to Eat:
- Convenience stores meals from 7-Eleven, Lawson, and FamilyMart.
- Ramen from Ichiran, Santouka, AFURI, and local specialty shops.
- Izakayas in Shinjuku’s Omoide Yokocho and Ueno’s Ameyoko for post-work relaxation.
Digital Nomad Destination: Seoul, South Korea
In 2024, Korea introduced the “Workation Visa,” allowing foreign remote workers to stay for up to one year. This initiative has made digital nomad Seoul one of Asia’s most appealing hubs for remote professionals.
Seoul offers a wide range of co-working spaces—from Gangnam’s sleek office towers to Hongdae’s creative communities. The city’s vibrant pop culture, fashion, and design scenes attract young creatives and foster a dynamic urban lifestyle.
Where to Stay in Seoul:
- Officetel Apartments: Mixed-use buildings with kitchens, bathrooms, and workspaces. Popular in Yeouido, Gangnam, and Mapo.
- Loft Apartments: Stylish and flexible spaces in Hongdae, Seongsu-dong, and university districts, often featuring shared areas and community events.
What to Eat:
- Convenience store bentos from GS25 and CU.
- Street food like tteokbokki, fish cakes, and gimbap.
- 24-hour eateries such as Kimbap Heaven and Isaac Toast—perfect for late-night meals.
Digital Nomad Destination: Hong Kong
Digital nomad Hong Kong offers a unique blend of Eastern traditions and Western urban energy. As a major business and creative hub, it attracts expats and remote workers from around the world. For digital nomads, it’s an ideal base for multicultural networking and dynamic city living.
Co-working spaces and stylish cafés are plentiful, especially in Central, Sai Ying Pun, and Prince Edward—perfect for freelancers, entrepreneurs, and creatives.
Explore Weave Living Hong Kong
Where to Stay in Hong Kong:
Co-living spaces: Weave Living properties in Sai Ying Pun, Olympic, Tai Kok Tsui, and Prince Edward offer high-speed Wi-Fi, shared kitchens, and community events—ideal for flexible, social living.
What to Eat:
- Hong Kong-style tea restaurants (Cha Chaan Tengs) like Australia Dairy Company and Kam Wah Café for classic Hong Kong breakfasts.
- Dim sum at Tim Ho Wan and Lin Heung Tea House.
- Street snacks such as egg waffles, curry fish balls, and shark fin soup bowls in Mong Kok and Sham Shui Po.
Digital Nomad Destination: Singapore
Digital nomad Singapore is modern, multicultural, and highly international. Its diverse population and English-speaking environment make it especially welcoming to foreign professionals. As a financial and tech hub, Singapore attracts entrepreneurs, freelancers, and remote teams from around the world.
Where to Stay in Singapore:
Co-living spaces: Especially popular in Bugis, these offer high-speed Wi-Fi, shared kitchens, and community events, perfect for social, flexible lifestyles.
Explore Weave Living Singapore
What to Eat:
- Hawker centres like Chinatown, Maxwell, and Lau Pa Sat for affordable, authentic Asian cuisine.
- Fusion dishes at Jumbo Seafood and Wild Rocket.
- International cuisines including Korean, Japanese, Thai, and Indonesian cuisine, especially around Orchard Road and Marina Bay.
2. Accommodation Tips for Digital Nomads
Finding a space that supports both productivity and comfort is key to successful nomadic living. Here’s a top recommendation:
Global Property Company: Weave Living
- Multilingual support: Website and customer service available in multiple languages.
- Streamlined rental process: Online booking, e-signing, and flexible lease terms simplify the experience.
- Work-life balance: Rooms designed for both living and working, with high-speed Wi-Fi, desks, and shared spaces.
- Premium property management: Facilities include gyms, laundry rooms, kitchens, and community events, ensuring a high-quality lifestyle.
3. Exploring Local Food: More Than Just a Meal
For digital nomads, food is more than sustenance, it’s a gateway to understanding the city. A good café that offers both meals and workspace can boost your productivity and mood. These spots often double as temporary offices and social hubs.
Useful Tools for Finding Local Gems:
- Google Maps: Search keywords like “café,” “brunch,” or “local food” to find highly rated, comfortable spots nearby.
- Tabelog (Japan): Japan’s top restaurant review platform—great for finding ramen, izakayas, and dessert shops with photos and user reviews.
- OpenRice (Hong Kong & Singapore): Offers detailed restaurant categories and user ratings—perfect for navigating cities with diverse food scenes.
4. Recommended Cafés for Work + Dining
Here’s a curated list of cafés in Asia’s top digital nomad cities that combine great food with a productive atmosphere:
Final Thoughts: Create Your Own Digital Nomad Life in Asia
The true appeal of digital nomad life lies in its flexibility and freedom. Across Asia, cities offer a wide spectrum of lifestyles, some are fast-paced and innovative, others are rich in culture and ideal for reflection. Whether you're drawn to creative energy or peaceful routines, there's a destination that aligns with your work style and personal preferences.
Each city has the potential to spark your next big idea. Don’t hesitate to explore different places; every stop offers something unique and worthwhile. As Asia continues to expand its digital nomad landscape, your journey can begin right here.