WFA × Life in Fukuoka

About WFA series

“Work from Anywhere, at Anytime” (WFA) system was introduced 11 months ago. In this “WFA Special” series, we offer insight into solving the challenges of working remotely by sharing some practices our colleagues have adopted.
This time, we would like to introduce Murayama-san who was born and raised in Fukuoka.
Here are some of the highlights and challenges he encountered moving back to Fukuoka from Tokyo when WFA started, along with some photos of the locale!

Tatsuro Murayama

Sales Support Division

I am a member of the Sales Support Division. I support merchant expansion of sales members and help improve their productivity through data analysis and video production.

【Video created by Murayama-san】

Why Fukuoka?

I lived in Tokyo for about 13 years after a job transfer, but I always thought of returning home to Fukuoka someday. Then, I found out that PayPay was going to introduce a system called WFA, so I decided to make a U-turn, thinking, “If I can work remotely, then I’ll go back to Fukuoka!” So as soon as the WFA system started in September 2020, I began a new life here in Fukuoka.

Fukuoka City is neatly compact with a good mix of nature and urban life. The city is not too big, and just a little outside, you have the sea, mountains, and hot springs. Also, the food is delicious and prices are cheap! It’s become more convenient compared to 13 years ago and it’s very easy to live here.

PayPay Dome and Momochihama are a short distance away by bike, and there is also a cycling course.

Ever since I came back to Fukuoka, I’ve been hooked on visiting hot springs in Kyushu.

How is remote work?

In order to work, I think it’s very important to create comfortable environments both for your job and private life. The best thing about working remotely was that I was able to fashion my ideal environment. Back then, living in Tokyo was far from a satisfying environment,like feeling a lot of stress from commuting… If I were to raise an issue with remote work, it’s that I don’t get enough exercise because I no longer commute.When I can, I go to the gym to work out, or go jogging or cycling in a big park nearby.

I can work comfortably in a roomy workspace.

What are some things you are careful about with remote work?

Well, it became too easy to concentrate on my work, so I tend to forget about time and often am glued to the computer screen (laughs). Otherwise, I make a rough schedule in order to make the day more dynamic.

09:45: morning routine (tidy up my desk / think and arrange tasks)

10:00: start work

12:00: lunch

19:00: finish work

20:00: gym (pool, sauna)

22:00: read or study for certifications

25:00: go to bed

It’s becoming a daily habit to review tasks and the daily workflow as I arrange my tools and workspace while tidying up before work starts.
Also, in order to improve my skills, I try to take time to study for getting certified. (I got two certifications this year!)
Acquired certifications:（Information-Technology Engineers Examination,3rd-grade Certified Skilled Professional of Financial Planning ）

A word of advice for those who are considering moving out of Tokyo with WFA.

I highly recommend moving to different places. You get to live in a comfortable environment while being involved in cutting-edge work!
By moving to other regions, you can discover new lifestyles and new values. I really hope you would give it some consideration.

A 40-minute drive and you can enjoy the beautiful sea. I live close to nature and get to enjoy the four seasons.

I refresh myself at this park 5 minutes away on foot.

I also started Standup paddle boarding (SUP) to get some exercise.

For Itoshima’s winter cuisine, I recommend eating at the oyster shack.

[Finally]
How was WFA x Life in Fukuoka?
I was impressed by Murayama-san’s work ethic, making the most of his time by setting up a suitable environment and planning a daily schedule. I hope it will be a reference point for your remote work.