5 Best Japan Destinations for Freelance Writers

Freelancers have the ability to choose the place that will enhance their creativity while writing which is one of the best parts about freelancing. You aren’t limited by location and you can take your writing anywhere you like. If you are thinking about becoming a freelancer on the road and Japan got your attention, you are on the right track.

Japan is an exotic place filled with opportunities for an exciting life. It will give you the chance to immerse yourself in something different and live your life to the fullest. However, there are many beautiful cities and choosing where to go can be difficult. That’s why we have made a list of the best destinations in Japan. The following places are perfect for all freelance writers who find themselves roaming around the exotic and impressive country that is Japan.

Tokyo

The iconic capital of Japan is one of the most tempting destinations for freelancers. This faced-paced city can be an endless source of fun. Also, it is the best place for finding new projects or topics to write about. For example, if you are writing about wine, you can go to wine expos at Tokyo Big Sight and get some information.

There are numerous coworking spaces where you can find all amenities for freelancers and meet new people. Coworker created a list of the best English-friendly coworking spaces so feel free to check it out.

Shibuya, a major commercial and business ward in Tokyo
Shibuya, a major commercial and business ward in Tokyo

In your free time, you can explore this exciting city. The way it mixes the Japanese traditional culture with modern architecture and lifestyle is impressive. The places you simply must visit are:

  • Sensō-Ji – Historic temple to the goddess of mercy.
  • Tokyo Skytree – The second tallest structure in the world after the Burj Khalifa.
  • Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden – One of Tokyo’s largest parks with a beautiful garden.

Fukuoka

If the image of you writing by the sea in Japan seems like your ideal situation head to Fukuoka. We get inspiration from different surroundings so not all writers would get bursting creativity in the capital. Fukuoka can provide you with benefits of big cities (it is Kyushu’s largest and one of Japan’s ten most populated cities) combined with the calming power of water (it is famed for its beaches).

The city of Fukuoka is said to be the growing political, economic and cultural center of Kyushu. Some call it the most dynamic city in Japan while others love it because of its numerous temples and gardens.

What took most of my time when I was in Fukuoka is walking through the parks. I have never seen anything like that so it really got creative juices flowing

When in Fukuoka, here’s what you shouldn’t miss:

  • Fukuoka Tower – The tallest beach tower in Japan and a symbolic building of Fukuoka’s western subcenter.
  • Ohori Park – A beautiful park with paths that surround a lake.
  • Nanzoin Temple – Famous for the spectacular Nehanzo and known for a miniature version of the 88-temple pilgrimage through Shikoku.
Bridge Dazaifu

Osaka

Freelance writers who enjoy great food or writers who write about food must visit Osaka, the food capital of this country. Besides the delicacies, Osaka is also famous for its rich nightlife and fun-loving people. Therefore, if you want to maximize your opportunities for an exciting time in Japan, Osaka should be your choice.

When it comes to its famous culinary delights, you should visit neighborhoods that are especially praised for amazing food options such as Tenma and Ura Namba. After all that food and enjoyment you should get your body moving and see some of the many attractive places in this city. Here are a few suggestions:

  • Osaka Castle – The 16th-century shogunate and Osaka’s main historical landmark.
  • Shitenno-Ji Temple – The first Buddhist and oldest officially administered temple in Japan.
  • Kema Sakuranomiya Park – A riverside park that incorporates classical buildings such as the Mint, Water Square, and walking trails.
One of Osaka’s local specialties, takoyaki (octopus dumplings)

Bizen

Some writers get the most inspiration out of rural and authentic areas. In case you are one of them, you should visit Bizen in Okayama prefecture. This is where you can get a taste of the everyday simple lives of Japanese people.

Bizen isn’t the first choice of freelancers and tourists which is why I love it so much. I felt like a traveled back in time and the simplicity of life that you can see in this city can get you to look at life differently.

What Bizen is famed for is its distinctive rusting pottery, long cycling trails, and fresh oysters. If you think that there isn’t much to see in this rural city, you couldn’t be more wrong. These are the top places in Bizen that will win you over:

  • Shizutani School – Japan’s oldest public school that is now transformed into a garden.
  • Gominoichi Market – The best place to eat fresh oysters.
  • Bizen Pottery Museum – Three floors dedicated to the well-known style of ceramic ware.

Aomori

Being one of the most beautiful regions in Japan, Aomori will charm you without a doubt. It is situated in the northern-most prefecture on Honshu. If you find yourself in Aomori between April 23rd and May 5th you can’t miss out on the Hirosaki Cherry Blossom Festival. The breathtaking sights will boost your creativity and leave you with unforgettable memories.

The cherry blossoms over Meguro River

Another event that Aomori is best known for is the spectacular Nebuta Matsuri summer festival. It is held every year from August 2sn to 7th and the festival’s highlight is the parade of enormous lantern floats, flanked by large taiko drums, dancers, and musicians. Aomori has much more to offer and some of the most famous attractions are:

  • Hirosaki Castle – A Hirayama-style Japanese castle constructed in 1611.
  • Shirakami-Sanchi – A Natural Heritage Site that is the largest virgin beech forest in the world.
  • Sukayu Onsen – Hot spring that has approximately 300 years of history.

Final Thoughts

Japan is such a popular destination for people all around the world because of its versatility. It complies with the needs of tourists as well as entrepreneurs who are looking for job opportunities.

The way it can benefit your freelancing career is that it can broaden your mindset and give you some fresh ideas. Writers are always on the lookout for inspiration and these incredible places will help you find it.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *