TADAIMA SHIMODA: Where Friendships with Locals Are Waiting to Bloom

Live & Work in Shimoda, Japan – embrace the deeply local Digital Nomad Lifestyle at TADAIMA SHIMODA

Imagine arriving in a small town in Japan—not as a tourist, but as someone returning home. You’re greeted with a heartfelt “Okaeri” (Welcome back). The streets feel familiar. People remember your name. And suddenly, you’re not just visiting—you’re part of something.

Welcome to TADAIMA SHIMODA.

What Does “Tadaima” Mean?

In Japanese, “Tadaima” is what people say when they return home: “I’m back.”

It’s answered by “Okaeri” — “Welcome back.”

These simple phrases carry deep emotional weight. They represent not just presence, but belonging.

TADAIMA SHIMODA brings this spirit to life—not just as a one-time event, but as an ongoing town-wide initiative in Shimoda, Japan.

Designed as a year-round platform for global-local exchange, TADAIMA SHIMODA offers multiple ways to live, work, and reconnect in Japan, whenever you’re ready to return.

Two Programs. One Philosophy of Belonging

In November 2025, two flagship programs supported by the city of Shimoda will welcome global citizens, remote workers, creatives, and changemakers to experience life in Shimoda — not as visitors, but as part of the community.

1. NOMAD EXPERIENCE

Nomad Experience is a one-month program designed for aspiring digital nomads and remote workers who’ve always dreamed of living in Japan—but didn’t know where to start. Through beginner-friendly English workshops, you’ll explore 10 types of online work—from video editing to virtual assistance to social media operations—no prior experience required.

You’ll live alongside fellow nomads in the coastal town of Shimoda, connect with local residents, and rediscover your own potential in a setting that’s both energizing and deeply human. If you’ve ever dreamed of living in Japan and communicating with Japanese—not just for a week, but long enough to find your rhythm—this is your chance.

This isn’t a retreat. It’s the start of a new chapter.

2. TADAIMA 2025

TADAIMA 2025 is the seasonal highlight of Shimoda’s year-round effort to foster deep connections between locals and nomads. It’s more than an event—it’s a living story of cross-cultural friendship. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning guest, the program creates space to live, learn, and collaborate with the local community across a full month.

During the Main Week (Nov 11–17), participants will enjoy:

• 🎤 Keynotes by local and international changemakers
• 🛠️ Skill-sharing and creative workshops
• 🏝️ Island overnight trip and nature excursions
• 🍽️ Local dinners and pop-up meetups
• 💬 Meetups and unconferences to spark real friendships

You’ll co-live in Shimoda, engage deeply with the local culture, and help shape the story of a globally connected town.

Event Highlights

• Nov 2: Cultural exchange party
• Nov 4: Japanese class & local dinner party
• Nov 6: Sushi-making workshop with a local chef
• Nov 8: Day trip excursion
• Nov 9: Visit to local high school
• Nov 11:Digital Nomad Meetup
• Nov 12-14:TADAIMA Mirai Kaigi
  • Nov 12: Keynote Speech / Opening Party
  • Nov 13: Workshop
  • Nov 14: Workshop / Unconference
• Nov 15-16: Overnight trip to Niijima Island
• Nov 23: Language exchange with locals
• Nov 30: Closing party “Utage!”

※Conference dates: Nov 12-14th
※Please note that the schedule is subject to change.

Shimoda: Japan’s Gateway to the World

Shimoda is more than a scenic town of beaches and hot springs—it’s where Japan’s modern story of international friendship began. In 1854, Shimoda became the first place in Japan where foreigners were officially allowed to live, marking the dawn of cultural exchange between Japan and the world.

Today, that legacy lives on in everyday life. People greet you with a smile. Students wave as you pass by. Locals remember your name. Here, international exchange isn’t a special event—it’s woven into the town’s DNA.

Shimoda is a place where strangers become friends, where the past meets the present, and where global citizens can feel at home.

Surf, Dive, Breathe

Famous among Japanese surfers and divers, Shimoda offers some of the best waves and underwater spots just a short walk or bike ride from the town center. From beginner-friendly beaches like Tatadohama to more powerful breaks like Kisami Ohama, the coastline is a paradise for water lovers. Certified diving centers also offer access to coral reefs, sea turtles, and even shipwrecks in the nearby bay.

But unlike surf hotspots that revolve around parties or crowds, Shimoda’s charm is in its balance. You can surf in the morning, soak in an “Onsen” —hot springs by afternoon, and join a quiet local dinner by night.

A Town That’s Just the Right Size

The town center offers all the essentials—cafés, supermarkets, public baths, hot springs, and even a coworking space. You can walk everywhere. Unlike big cities, Shimoda allows you to settle in quickly and feel at home. It’s not glamorous—but it’s real.

Quiet Evenings, Meaningful Encounters

Nightlife here doesn’t mean party crowds. It means gathering at a local izakaya and Japanese “snack” bars, sharing stories over grilled fish and sake, or joining a pop-up event hosted by locals and travelers. You might find yourself at an impromptu ukulele session or simply chatting with a high schooler curious about the outside world.

How to Get to Shimoda

Shimoda is located in Shizuoka Prefecture, about 2.5–3 hours from Tokyo by train. Take the JR Limited Express Odoriko from Tokyo Station to Izukyu-Shimoda Station, and you’ll arrive right at the heart of town. It’s easy, scenic, and surprisingly accessible—even for first-time visitors to Japan.