Get High & Explore the South of Japan: A Digital Nomad’s Guide to Saga Prefecture
Exploring Japan as a digital nomad is an exciting opportunity, particularly in the tranquil Saga Prefecture. This blog post will highlight Ureshino City as an ideal destination for first-time remote workers, showcase the unique accommodations at Wataya Besso, and provide essential information about the new Digital Nomad Visa. Additionally, we’ll explore the vibrant events and cultural experiences that make Saga a lively place for digital nomads, including opportunities to learn about tea farming, pottery, and live like a local through food and culture.
Why Choose the Saga Prefecture & Ureshino City for Digital Nomads?
Sure Tokyo is great but as a digital nomad you want to go where you can immerse yourself in the cultural richness and natural beauty of mountains that meet the city. Ureshino City renowned for its rich heritage, explore the celebrated Ureshino Onsen, known for its skin-soothing benefits; Ureshino tea, with a history spanning over 500 years; and Hizen Yoshida Pottery, which has been crafted for over 400 years. The city is surrounded by beautiful mountains and nature and offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, providing a serene environment that is ideal for focused work and relaxation with so much to explore while staying for a month remote working.
Community and Networking Opportunities
As a growing hub for digital nomads, Ureshino provides opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals. Local co-working spaces and community events foster networking, collaboration, and cultural exchange, enhancing the overall experience of living in Japan.
Accessibility
Ureshino is conveniently located between Fukuoka and Nagasaki, making it easy to explore other parts of Kyushu. This accessibility allows digital nomads to enjoy weekend getaways while maintaining a stable work routine during the week.
Accommodation With Nomad Stays Trusted Stay Partners
Stay in a traditional Japanese-style accommodation recently renovated to cater to the needs of digital nomads. Here’s what you can expect:
Location and Accessibility: Situated in Ureshino City, Wataya Besso is easily accessible by car, bus, or train from Saga, Fukuoka, or Nagasaki airports. For a seamless journey with no transfers, consider booking a taxi from Nagasaki Airport (about 40 minutes) or Saga Airport (about 60 minutes for 3,000 yen).
Comfortable Workspaces: Each room features a comfortable workspace along with access to a dedicated co-working space equipped with a kitchen. The modern Japanese-style room measures 43.5m² and includes amenities like a shower booth and washing machine.
Photo Suppled by Trusted Stay Partner at Nomad Stays
Cultural Experiences: Your stay includes three immersive cultural experiences: relaxing in a traditional onsen (hot spring), exploring a local tea farm, and participating in a pottery workshop. These experiences allow you to engage deeply with local traditions.
Activities On-Site: This unique Stay offers various activities including sauna access, bicycle rentals, spa services, Japanese sweet-making workshops, tea tasting sessions, and food and tea pairing experiences.
Photo by Accomodation Supplier
Flexible Stays: Accommodations are available for stays ranging from two weeks to three months. Due to limited room availability, you may need to stay in different rooms during your visit; however, all rooms will maintain the traditional Japanese style.
Experience Living Like a Local
Photo: Unsplash
Culinary Delights
Ureshino offers an array of local delicacies that reflect its rich culinary heritage:
– Onsen Yudofu: This specialty dish features tofu cooked in local hot spring water. The alkaline properties of the water create silky smooth tofu that melts in your mouth. It’s often served with fresh vegetables and fish cakes—a must-try when dining out or preparing meals at your accommodation.
– Ureshino Tea: Known for its unique flavor profile due to its curled leaves—distinct from other regions—Ureshino tea can be enjoyed during traditional tea ceremonies held at scenic tea plantations. Visitors can participate in these ceremonies while savoring freshly brewed tea amidst beautiful landscapes.
– Local Markets: Visiting places like Yobuko Fish Market allows you to sample fresh seafood delicacies such as smoked mackerel and squid dumplings. Engaging with local vendors provides insight into regional culinary practices.
Photo Supplied by Accomodation Nomad Stays
Cultural Experiences
Living like a local also means immersing yourself in Ureshino’s vibrant culture:
– Tea Tourism: Engage in “Tea Tourism” where you can learn about the tea production process directly from local farmers. Participate in hands-on activities such as tea picking or tea-dyeing workshops at Chaoshiru—Ureshino Onsen’s Tea Exchange Center.
– Pottery Workshops: Experience the artistry of Hizen Yoshida pottery by taking part in workshops where you can create your own ceramic pieces. Learn about the history of this craft that has been part of the region’s identity for centuries.
Exciting Events in Saga
Participate in community events such as the Saga International Balloon Fiesta or seasonal festivals that celebrate local traditions. These gatherings provide opportunities to meet residents and fellow travelers while enjoying food stalls featuring regional specialties. This particular event is one of the most notable events in Saga Prefecture, and is held annually in early November. This vibrant festival is Asia’s largest sky-sporting event and attracts hundreds of thousands of spectators each year.
Fly High at the Saga International Balloon Fiesta
Fly high and experience the famous Balloon festival in Saga. This is just one of the incredible events in Saga Japan. Here is a little peek into this event and why it is worth experiencing.
– Hot Air Balloon Competitions: The festival features professional hot air balloon competitions judged on accuracy rather than speed. Pilots aim to drop sandbags as close as possible to designated targets.
-Balloon Fantasia: Each morning showcases whimsical balloons shaped like animals and popular characters. Attendees can get up close before these balloons take flight.
– Nighttime Events: The final days include La Montgolfier Nocturne where balloons are illuminated against the night sky accompanied by music and fireworks.
With around 800,000 to 1 million attendees each year, this festival offers an unforgettable experience for both locals and visitors alike.
Photo: Unsplash
Visa Information for Digital Nomads
Japan’s new Digital Nomad Visa, set to launch in March 2024, allows eligible remote workers to live and work in Japan for up to six months. Here are the key details:
– Eligibility Criteria: Applicants must have a valid passport from one of the eligible countries, an annual income of at least 10 million JPY (approximately $62,166), and proof of employment with a foreign entity.
Documentation Required:
– Completed visa application form
– Certificate of Eligibility (COE)
– Proof of financial stability (employment contracts or tax returns)
– International health insurance covering the applicant and dependents
– Family Inclusion: Spouses and children can accompany visa holders if they have adequate health insurance coverage.
– Non-Renewable Status: The visa is not renewable; however, applicants can reapply after leaving Japan for six months.
This visa presents a fantastic opportunity for digital nomads to immerse themselves in Japan’s rich culture while continuing their professional endeavors.
Pack Your Bags & LET’S GO!
For digital nomads seeking an enriching experience in Japan, Ureshino City in Saga Prefecture stands out as an ideal destination. But don’t take my word for it, try it yourself and create your own memories. With its serene environment, vibrant community, and for a full Japanese experience on your next extended stay destination with unique accommodation stay, exciting events like the Saga International Balloon Fiesta, learn local ceremonial tea traditions from tea farms and discover pottery traditions along with so many other opportunities. These authentic culinary experiences allow you to live like a local—it offers everything needed for a successful remote working experience. Coupled with the new Digital Nomad Visa launch, now is the perfect time to explore this beautiful country while maintaining your digital lifestyle.
By Linda McCall
Digital Nomad and full time digital nomad of coming up 10 years. Travelled to over 70 countries and loves exploring off the beaten track. Co- Founder Nomad Stays and passionate about flying, motorcycling, and helping others live and work around the world. Exploring what’s possible.
