Access to SHIMODA
Narita Airport→TOKYO STATION
（Approximately 1h15 min）
Haneda Airport→TOKYO STATION
（Approximately 45 min）
TOKYO STATION
→IZUKYU SHIMODA STATIO
（depending on the train, ranging from
2h 30 min to 3 h 30 min）
Bas!c information aBout SHIMODA
Accessibility and Accommodation
Shimoda is easily accessible from Tokyo, 3 hours by train directly from the center of Tokyo making it a convenient getaway. The city offers a range of accommodation options, from traditional ryokans to modern hotels, catering to different preferences and budgets.
Conducive Environment for Work
With its tranquil atmosphere, reliable internet connectivity in many areas, and a variety of cafes and public spaces conducive to work, Shimoda is an ideal location for digital nomads looking for a productive yet peaceful working environment.
Delicious Local Cuisine
Shimoda’s culinary scene is a delight, with fresh seafood being a specialty. Local restaurants serve a variety of Japanese dishes, allowing digital nomads to indulge in authentic and delicious cuisine.
9 Beaches
Famed for its beautiful, pristine beaches like Shirahama Beach, offering crystal-clear waters and white sands. These beaches are perfect for relaxation, swimming, and various water sports, offering a serene escape for those needing a break from work.
Rich History
Notably as the site where Commodore Perry’s Black Ships landed in 1854, marking the end of Japan’s isolationist policy. This historical significance is showcased in various monuments and museums, such as the Perry Road, which is lined with traditional buildings, tea houses, and shops that transport visitors back to the Edo period.
Vibrant Festivals
Shimoda celebrates various festivals throughout the year, including the Shimoda Black Ship Festival, which commemorates the opening of Japan to the world. These festivals offer a glimpse into Japan’s rich cultural heritage and are a fantastic way for digital nomads to engage with local traditions.
Natural Hot Springs (Onsen)
Shimoda is home to numerous natural hot springs, providing a unique opportunity to experience Japan’s onsen culture. After a long day of work or exploration, these therapeutic hot springs are perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Hiking Trails
The city is surrounded by lush greenery and offers scenic trails for hiking and exploration, such as the trails around Mount Nesugatayama. These natural landscapes are not only breathtaking but also provide a peaceful environment for creative thinking and productivity.
You do not have to wait for November.
Shimoda has a weekly rhythm of its own. Whether you are here for a few days, a few weeks or longer, there is a table to sit at — and most people turn up on their own the first time.
Shimoda Glocal Potluck Dinner
One long table of locals, travellers, remote workers and dual-life residents. Bring a dish or a drink to share — cooked or bought, either is fine — and your own drink for the evening.
Social Friday
A lighter, drop-in evening open to anyone in town. No need to bring anything; you order and pay for what you have.
Glocal Community Dinner
The whole community eats together once a month — sometimes a BBQ outside, sometimes a long table indoors. New arrivals get introduced, so nobody eats alone in their first weeks.
Pop-up coworking, excursions, festivals
Coworking days in cafes and community spaces, excursions around the Izu peninsula, and the town’s own festivals and seasonal openings.
First time in Shimoda? Come alone.
Plenty of people join on their own the first time. It is the quickest way to meet residents, get recommendations you will not find online, and work out whether this town suits you. English is fine — so is very little Japanese.
Venues and exact dates move a little week to week — the current schedule is on the Event Calendar, the year’s festivals and seasonal openings are on Festivals & Seasons, and day-to-day updates go out on Instagram.
