ー Could you briefly tell us about your background?
Seiko: Sure. I graduated from a fashion college and then worked for an apparel company, handling PR. After that, I switched to an IT consulting firm. I worked there for about a year before becoming a freelance digital marketing consultant, which I've been doing for over eight years now.
The reason I transitioned from the fashion industry to IT was because I was vaguely interested in a job that allowed me to work while traveling with just a laptop. I also had a background in web design, having created websites since middle school, so I was familiar with the web.
ー What countries have you visited since becoming a freelancer?
Seiko: I first moved to Taiwan at the invitation of a friend and lived there for two years. After that, influenced by the COVID-19 pandemic, I decided to travel within Japan. I visited various places, including Ishikawa, Fukui, and Okinawa(three times)! Everywhere I went, the food was delicious, the streets were clean, and the service level was high. The safety was also a big plus. Recently, I've traveled to various parts of Thailand and Bali in Indonesia.
ー Why do you look for coworking spaces?
Seiko: When I had a house in Tokyo, I made my home workspace very comfortable, but I was often lonely. Coworking spaces are perfect for alleviating that sense of loneliness because they offer a strong community. Plus, in a nomadic lifestyle, creating a good work environment is a top priority, so I choose coworking spaces over hotels.
ー How was your experience using S-TOKYO for three months?
Seiko: In a word, it was wonderful. Everyone was nice, and I never had an unpleasant experience. The people here don't judge others or view things through a biased lens. They understand new things and cultural differences delicately without making judgments like "this is good" or "that is bad." This creates a sense of security.
S-TOKYO is a comfortable place for people who are open to new things and value their own perspectives. As a digital nomad, I'm willing to change my entire environment for the better, and S-TOKYO offers that comfort. Since it's run by the same company that operates hotel LINNAS Kanazawa, they understand and embrace different values and travelers.
ー What impression do you have of the S-TOKYO staff?
Seiko: The staff is friendly and incredibly hospitable. On my first day, Yuka at the reception was very nervous but extremely kind, which left a strong impression. She is diligent and hardworking. Barista Kei makes different latte art each time and has an interesting personality. Barista Ilija is very talkative and shares many stories about travel and history. Chichi has hospitality in every cell (laughs). Even as you get closer to the staff, they maintain a high level of service while becoming more friendly, which I think is amazing.
ー Can you share any memorable experiences from your time at S-TOKYO?
Seiko: There are many, but spending time on the rooftop was special. Initially, during the pre-opening phase, it was a plain concrete space, but now it’s a relaxing area with artificial grass, cute little herbs, and workout equipment. On sunny days, we set up umbrellas and chairs to enjoy lunch or coffee. I had many enjoyable conversations with various people there, discussing work progress, hobbies, vacations, current events, and even love stories.
The rooftop is one of the many charms of S-TOKYO.
Another memorable aspect, not directly related to the coworking space, was a page from the booklet celebrating LINNAS Design's third anniversary, which stated, "This is your place. Come back anytime."
ー Will you return to S-TOKYO again?
Seiko: Absolutely, I'll be back. I'm always looking for a place that suits me well. S-TOKYO was filled with good energy, and I found myself coming here almost daily and feeling rejuvenated. The comfort here is addictive (laughs).
ー Please, come back anytime! We'll be waiting for you!
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Community Curator's Comment
Seiko has been using S-TOKYO as a Monthly Member since our pre-opening. Despite our many shortcomings, she kindly listened to our concerns and provided expert marketing advice, warmly supporting us as we prepared for the grand opening. The entire S-TOKYO crew is sincerely grateful! On a personal note, I had a wonderful three months spending enjoyable times with Seiko. We will continue to strive to be a place for those seeking a richer life.
Thank you so much, Seiko!
S-TOKYO Chichi
【About S-TOKYO】
S-TOKYO is a small mixed-use facility (micro-complex) with co-working space, a cafe, and a gallery. It aims to be a community where local businesses, startups, creators, and digital nomads from around the world come together, fostering various activities every day. Pre-opened on November 22, 2023, it started accepting residents and is scheduled for a formal reopening in April 2024. Apart from operating as a co-working space, cafe & bar, and gallery, resident members can also propose and co-host events. We're looking for members who can make this place a comfortable space filled with connections and new inspirations!