Preparing for your arrival

Getting Here:

The countdown to adventure is on! By now, you may have already organized your flight to Kyoto. If not, here's a quick guide:

The city of Kyoto itself does not have its own airport. However, there are several airports nearby that you can fly into in order to reach Kyoto.

Itami Domestic Airport (ITM)

Itami Airport is the closest airport to Kyoto, located approximately 36 km from the city. As Itami only handles domestic flights, international travelers typically fly into Tokyo's Haneda Airport (HND) and then take a domestic transfer flight to Itami.

Kansai International Airport (KIX)

Kansai International Airport is located 77 km away from Kyoto in Osaka Bay but is a major hub, serving numerous cities worldwide, making it a more popular option for international travelers. 

Arrival Process

We are happy to help arrange transfers from the airport, but please note this will be at your own expense, we can provide you with a personal quote from our local providers!

Otherwise, taxis and rideshares like Uber are available at every airport. We would highly recommend taking public transport as it is more affordable and super easy to navigate. 

Itami Domestic Airport (ITM)

Taxi - The Millennials Kyoto, your home for the next few weeks, is located a 50-minute drive from ITM and a taxi will cost around US $120 - $150.

Airport Limousine Bus - The easiest way is the Airport Limousine Bus. It takes you directly to JR Kyoto Station and takes 55 minutes. Tickets can be purchased from the ticket vending machines and cost 1,280 Yen (US $8.32). 

Monorail and Hankyu Train - Head to Itami Airport Monorail station, where you can catch a Monorail to Minami-Ibaraki. Change there for the Hankyu local train going to Kyoto or Takatsukishi, and then change at Takatsuki-shi for the express train to Central Kyoto. This route costs just 730 Yen (US $4.75) but it may be crowded in the morning and evening peak periods.

Kansai International Airport (KIX)

Taxi - The Millennials Kyoto, your home for the next few weeks, is located an 80-minute drive from KIX and a taxi will cost between US $150 - $200

Airport Limousine Bus - One way to travel to Kyoto is via the Airport Limousine Bus. The journey takes approximately 1 hour 30 minutes and costs 2,550 Yen (US $16.58).

JR Haruka Limited Express - The fastest way to travel to Kyoto from KIX is by train. The journey takes approximately 70 minutes from Kansai Airport to Kyoto, with departures every 30 minutes. This route is covered by the Japan Rail Pass. For those without the pass, tickets cost 2,850 Yen (US $18.53) for non-reserved seats and 3,500 Yen (US $22.76) for reserved seats.

Orientation

Now, once you've arrived and checked in, this is where the fun really begins. Our welcome/kick-off ceremony will provide you with all the necessary information about your stay and give you the chance to meet your unique Noma community. 

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Before You Go 

Weather:

Kyoto has a humid subtropical climate with temperate and humid conditions. The summers (from June to August) are hot and humid while the winters (from December to February) are cold and snowy. October has some of the best weather of the year, with warm, sunny days, cool evenings, and average temperatures around 73°F (22°C). 

Some helpful Japanese phrases:

Hello - Konnichiwa kohn-nee-chee-wah

Thank you - Arigatou Gozaimasu ah-ree-gah-toh goh-zah-ee-mahs 

 Please - Kudasai koo-dah-sigh 

 The check, please - Okaikei onegaishimasu oh-kai-kay oh-neh-guy shee-mahs 

How much is this? - Ikura desu ka? ee-koo-rah deh-soo kah? 

Packing List:

Poncho / Raincoat

Lightweight t-shirts 

Long-sleeve shirts for layering

Long pants / Jeans

Shorts / Skirts / Dresses

Sweaters

Jacket

Sunglasses and Hat

Sneakers

Comfortable Walking Shoes 

Hiking gear / Gym clothes

Day backpack

Eye mask

Earplugs 

Toiletries

International credit/debit card 

Cash - JPY is accepted everywhere

Water bottle

Laptop 

Chargers

Portable Charger

Headphones

Headphones

Kindle or Books

Medication / Supplements

Ethernet adaptor if you require an ethernet cable

Communication

Important - all guest communication is on Slack. 

Please click on the below image to join our Noma Slack channel
Slack App is available on Web, Android and iOS. Please join Noma Collective on Slack clicking on the Slack logo above.

When you join Noma Collective, please DM @teamnoma letting them know the Edition & month you are attending. We will add you to the correct channels:

News And Events - For anything related to on-site events and activity sign-ups. @teamnoma uses this channel to let you know about the onsite event programme and daily announcements.

Onsite Chat - Think of this as your community conversation space, where you can share memes, have casual chats, see what people are up to and more!

#alumni - Once your trip is over you’ll get a VIP backstage pass to the entire Noma Collective Community. You’ll have access to exclusive perks, recommendations, advice, and alumni-only Editions.

You can also DM anyone by selecting their name in the bottom left which will enable you to discuss anything in private. 

Add a profile picture, pronouns and a short bio of current/previous job roles and any personal information of interest that you’d like to share in the ‘what I do’ section. This will help your fellow community members get to know you better!

If you have any questions for us, or any issues with anything on-site, please DM @TeamNoma. Also, if you’d like to flag anything in a general chat for our attention, simply add @TeamNoma to your post and we’ll pick it up.

We will monitor Slack between 8 am and 8 pm daily (apart from the Community Manager's day off) if there’s anything urgent outside of those hours then please contact the front desk.

Location

The Neighborhood - Nakagyo

Immerse yourself in Kyoto's timeless beauty. Kyoto literally translates as “capital city” and served as the capital of Japan for over a thousand years. Explore Buddhist temples, gardens, palaces, and Shinto shrines whilst immersing yourself in the city’s stunning natural beauty. 

You'll be staying in the vibrant ward of Nakagyo, known for its rich history and lively atmosphere. 

Experience the culinary heart of Kyoto at Nishiki Market. Sample traditional Japanese foods and explore a variety of traders serving everything from fresh seafood to soy ice cream and culinary supplies. 

Step back in time to the 17th-century Edo period at Nijō Castle. Explore the magnificent Ninomaru Palace, a World Heritage Site, with more than 30 rooms furnished with many tatami mats and opulent paintings. 

The Kamo River flows through the bustling area of Kawaramachi. This sceneic river offers a picturesque backdrop to the vibrant city life. Nakagyo is also home to several historical places and temples so you can dive into Kyoto's cultural and spiritual heritage. 

The Millennials - Our Noma Home

Experience a taste of modern Kyoto by staying at the capsule hotel, The Millennials. Relax in their innovative SmartPods, which perfectly combine functionality and comfort. Each SmartPod comes with an innovative alarm system that wakes you up with ambient lights and an adjustable bed. You can control all of the pod's features using an iPad provided at check-in. If you have opted for a theater pod, you'll even have an 80" screen for a private movie experience. Additionally, you'll have access to a shared co-working space, communal kitchen, creative lounge, and free beer taps! It's a fully curated digital nomad experience with everything you need to work and play in this beautiful city!

Laundry Service: Each floor has a Washer (300 Yen) and a Dryer (100 Yen/10mins).

Housekeeping: Bed sheets are changed every 4th day.

Amenities: You will have access to a co-working space, communal kitchen, creative lounge, and free beer taps. There are also rental bikes available for 200 Yen/Hour or 1,200 Yen/Day.

Food & Beverage 

There is no restaurant on site; however, there is a fully-equipped communal kitchen located on the 8th floor. Free beer is served every evening next to the front desk, and breakfast is available in the lounge from 7:30 to 9:30 AM.

When Going Offsite 

We're thrilled to provide you with a tailored Google Map showcasing our handpicked local hot spots. This map will be your ultimate guide for discovering hidden gems, must-see attractions, and our personal favorites. Get ready for effortless access to insider recommendations that will elevate your Japanese adventure! 🗺️🌟

Check out some of the Team Noma favorite restaurants, bars and cafe's in the local area:

Chao Chao Gyoza

Menya Inoichi

Piopiko Mexican

Kakyo

Nishiki Market

Bees Knees 

Rocking Chair

St. James Club

Yamatoya

Tajimaya Shijo 

Work 

Your Digital Nomad Guide 

As digital nomads ourselves, we know how important it is to our community to change their working environments. This is why you will have access to a shared co-working space. With plenty of seating options, power outlets and high-speed WiFi, this is the perfect stress-free environment for digital nomads.

You will also have access to a creative lounge, a space where creative inspiration and comfort co-exist.

If you feel like a change of scenery, there are plenty of lovely cafes and co-working spaces in the area where you can be productive while enjoying this amazing city.

Stumptown Coffee Roasters

Blue Bottle Coffee

Kaikado Café

Mar Café

Len Kyoto Kawaramachi

Community

Our community, events and code of conduct

Events Schedule

Stay tuned for your personalized Google Calendar detailing all our exciting events during the two-week trip, ensuring you won't miss any activities you wish to join.

We announce the weekly events schedule on Slack every Sunday afternoon which includes at least one event a day, offering something for everyone.

Wellbeing: Yoga, meditation, running/walks.

Adventure: Weekly adventures exploring everything this vibrant city has to offer. 

Community: We host various events to bring everyone together like our family dinners or potlucks. 

Professional Growth: Noma community members have the chance to host workshops that focus on their professional background or a personal interest/skill. We usually have one a week. We usually have one a week. If this is something you're interested in - please reach out to plan this into our schedule!

Code of Conduct 

We are a diverse and inclusive community, committed to supporting one another in our shared journey. Please extend your support to those organizing events and don't hesitate to ask questions; there are no such things as 'stupid questions' or 'boring events.'

At Noma, the safety and comfort of every member are paramount. We have solo travelers and staggered arrivals, so let's make every newcomer feel genuinely welcome and supported in their experience.

Understanding and Consideration:

Noma attracts individuals from various backgrounds, cultures, races, genders, sexual orientations, religions, and ideologies. It's essential to be mindful of this diversity. Avoid making comments or jokes related to race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, divisive political figures, or national stereotypes. Let's practice empathy and understanding at all times.

Respectful Communication:

In our community, respectful communication is paramount. We have zero tolerance for inappropriate behavior such as sexual references, innuendos and passes that could make others uncomfortable. Let's foster an atmosphere of professionalism and mutual respect, ensuring everyone feels secure and valued.

Ensuring Safety:

1. Consent Matters: Never touch someone without their clear and enthusiastic consent.

2. Respect Personal Space: Everyone deserves their privacy and personal space; please respect their boundaries.

3. Reporting Concerns: If you witness any unsavory, criminal, or unwelcome behavior, please report it to a member of the resort staff immediately. If you find yourself in an uncomfortable situation and are unsure how to handle it, Team Noma is always available to assist.

Contributing to Local Communities: 

At Noma, we aim to support and uplift the communities we visit. By engaging with and contributing to locally owned businesses and services, we can make a positive impact on the places we explore. We encourage everyone to be conscious of the local economy and environment, promoting sustainability and ethical practices while embracing the rich culture and traditions of our destinations.

Maintaining Confidentiality:

We value discretion and will handle issues with utmost sensitivity unless you specify otherwise. Reach out to us in person or DM on Slack if you have concerns or need assistance.

Accountability and Support:

If you wish to report something related to your Community Manager or escalate any issues, please feel free to email the Head of Community Operations at [email protected] or DM her on Slack. Your safety and comfort are our top priority.

Thank you for making Noma a safe, respectful, and supportive community for everyone.

Leaving Process

Leaving Ceremony 

Join our final night celebrations before you head home! We will have a space to share how it was to spend a month in the spiritual heart of Japan

Transfers to the Airport 

We are happy to help arrange transfers to the airport when you leave, but please note this will be at your own expense (we are happy to get a quote for you from our local provider!). If you prefer to make your own way, you can call an Uber, take a train or ask the Community Managers for other options. Please let us know what you choose so that we can make the necessary arrangements. 

Finally, sit back, relax and start counting down the days until you arrive in Kyoto, Japan! We can't wait to see you and show you around one of our favorite places - it's going to be an incredible adventure. Safe travels!