Client Voice︱Why Koku Co., Ltd. Chose Compass Offices WTC annex (Hamamatsucho)
For nearly a decade, Koku Co., Ltd. has built a successful media business. As the company recently expanded into the travel industry, it chose Compass Offices WTC annex (Hamamatsucho) as the base for this new venture.
With a growing focus on inbound tourism, the team needed an office that would satisfy the regulatory requirements for a travel agency while also providing a collaborative and welcoming work environment. We spoke with Ms. Fujico about their office search, what attracted them to Compass Offices, and their experience since moving in.
Expanding into a New Business
As Koku Co., Ltd. launched its travel business alongside its established media operations, securing a private office became essential to obtain a travel agency licence.
The company was also mindful of the work environment. Since a certified travel professional is required to work on-site full-time, they wanted to avoid having that person working alone in a closed office all day. Instead, they sought a solution that offered both the privacy of a dedicated office and the sense of connection found in a shared workspace.
Location was another key consideration. Hamamatsucho stood out for its excellent transport links, providing convenient access to clients and easy connections to the Izu Islands, an important destination for their business.
Why Compass Offices WTC annex (Hamamatsucho)?
- A Positive First Impression — From the moment they visited, the team was struck by the friendly staff and welcoming atmosphere.
- The Ideal Balance of Privacy and Community — Compass Offices offered the private office required for their travel business while also creating opportunities for natural interaction with other tenants and staff, a balance that can be difficult to find.
- Excellent Value in a Prime Location — With direct access to the station, high-quality facilities, and pricing that suited their budget, the location provided exceptional value for a growing business.
— What prompted you to start looking for a flexible office?
We’ve been running our media business for around ten years, and recently we decided to expand into the travel industry as well.
To register as a travel agency, we needed a dedicated private office. At the same time, a qualified travel professional must be present in the office full-time, and we felt it wouldn’t be ideal for that person to spend every day working alone in an isolated room.
That’s what led us to consider a serviced office with private office space. Both our CEO and I were already familiar with serviced offices and coworking environments, so it felt like a natural choice for us.
A Photo-Filled Blog Helped Us Visualise the Space
—Why did you choose Compass Offices over other options?
We first came across Compass Offices through office comparison websites and online maps.
While the official website provided useful information, it didn’t fully capture the atmosphere of the space. Then we discovered a blog post that featured plenty of photos showcasing the office interiors in detail.
Our CEO immediately said, “This looks fantastic.”
Personally, I love bright spaces with plenty of natural light, and the shared areas looked very open and inviting. That blog definitely played a big part in encouraging us to book a tour.
The Deciding Factor: A Great Atmosphere
— What ultimately convinced you to choose Compass Offices?
Without question, it was the atmosphere.
Everyone made us feel welcome from the moment we arrived. The office itself was impressive, the internet was ready to use, the facilities were clean and well maintained, and there was unlimited coffee available.
To be honest, we couldn’t think of any negatives. As we toured the space, we kept saying to each other, “This is exciting.”
After Moving In: “We Honestly Have No Complaints”
— How have the support and services been since moving in?
The support has been excellent. The staff are attentive, responsive, and always willing to help, so honestly, we have no complaints.
The move-in process was smooth from start to finish, and we haven’t experienced any unexpected issues. Before signing the agreement, we had questions about company registration, internet access, security cards, printing fees, and other practical matters. Everything was clearly explained by email in advance, which gave us confidence and ensured there were no surprises after moving in.
A Workplace That Encourages Both Focus and Connection
— Have there been any business benefits?
Absolutely.
It’s a great environment for focused work, but at the same time it never feels so quiet that you’re hesitant to speak with people.
In some offices, the atmosphere can be overly silent, making conversations feel awkward. Here, there’s a friendly and relaxed energy. People can chat naturally without the space ever becoming noisy or distracting.
That balance has been incredibly valuable for us.
Looking Forward to More Networking and Community Events
— What are your thoughts on the centre’s events and community activities?
We heard that around 60 people attended the Christmas party, which sounded like a fantastic turnout.
Even smaller initiatives, such as sharing seasonal treats like ohagi, help bring people together and create a stronger sense of community.
Our business focuses on inbound tourism, and many of the tenants here come from international backgrounds. We’d love more opportunities to connect with them, not necessarily through formal networking events, but through casual conversations such as, “What brought you to Japan?” or “How did you end up working here?”
We think those kinds of genuine connections would be truly valuable.
A Message for Businesses Considering Their Next Office
— What advice would you give to companies currently exploring office options?
If you find a space you like, don’t wait too long to make a decision.
Popular office spaces can fill up quickly, and available rooms may be taken before you’ve had time to make up your mind.
There are many coworking spaces that offer a strong sense of community but don’t provide private offices. Finding a location that delivers both privacy and opportunities for interaction is much more difficult.
Having that combination, in this location, at this price point, and with this level of facilities, is something we’re genuinely grateful for.
I would definitely recommend it.
Experience It for Yourself
Interested in learning more? Contact us to arrange a tour of Compass Offices WTC annex (Hamamatsucho) and discover firsthand what makes this workspace such a great fit for growing businesses.. Get in touch today.
