Tokyo has been named the world’s top destination for a “workcation”—a trip combining work and leisure—according to the **International Workplace Group (IWG)**’s third annual *Work from Anywhere Barometer*. The ranking evaluates global cities where travelers can seamlessly integrate professional tasks with relaxation.
Why Tokyo Took First Place
Tokyo secured the #1 spot due to:
- **Exceptional infrastructure**: World-class broadband speed and transport systems.
- **Quality of life**: High safety standards, rich cultural offerings, and a newly launched digital nomad visa.
- **Natural access**: Proximity to mountains, coastlines, and national parks—ideal for hybrid workers seeking urban vibrancy paired with outdoor escapes.
Ranking Methodology
IWG assessed 40 countries using **12 criteria**, including:
- Climate, accommodation, food, and transport.
- Subsistence costs (e.g., average cappuccino price in expat areas).
- Broadband speed, happiness levels, and availability of flexible workspaces.
- **New additions this year**: Digital nomad visa accessibility and proximity to beaches/mountains/national parks.
Top 10 Workcation Cities (2025)
1. Tokyo (Japan)
2. Rio de Janeiro (Brazil)
3. Budapest (Hungary)
4. Seoul (South Korea)
5. Barcelona (Spain)
6. Beijing (China)
7. Lisbon (Portugal)
8. Rome (Italy)
9. Paris (France)
10. Valletta (Malta)
Key Changes From Previous Years
- **New entrants**: Tokyo, Seoul, Rome, Paris, and Valletta joined the list for the first time.
- **Risers**: Seoul climbed thanks to ultra-fast internet, efficient public transport, and a thriving digital nomad community supported by South Korea’s visa program.
- **Fallers**: Barcelona, Beijing, and Lisbon dropped in rankings despite popularity.
- **Steady performer**: Budapest remained a favorite for its food scene and high happiness index, though it fell from 1st to 3rd place.
Regional Highlights & Emerging Destinations
- **Top Asian cities**: Singapore (praised for food, happiness, broadband, and sustainability—plus island-wide 5G and green spaces) led the regional list, followed by Jakarta, Manila, Mumbai, and Hong Kong.
- **Emerging hotspots**: Mexico City, Cape Town, Prague, Melbourne, Orlando, and Reykjavik scored highly for digital nomad visas and proximity to nature.
Industry Trend Outlook
Mark Dixon, IWG’s founder and CEO, emphasized the trend’s permanence: *“Hybrid working and cloud technology give employees freedom to work anywhere, anytime. Many companies are adopting long-term flexible policies—boosting work-life balance, reducing burnout, and driving productivity.”*