What are the best strategies and embassy locations for applying for the DTV visa as a Japanese citizen in June 2026?

Hi everyone! Looking for advice from those who've recently applied for the DTV visa.

QUICK BACKGROUND:

- Japanese citizen, software engineer

- Currently full-time employee at a Tokyo-listed company (will have employment certificate + 6 months payslips)

- 500,000+ THB equivalent in my bank account, maintained for 8+ months

- Also a competitive amateur kickboxer in Japan, planning to train Muay Thai seriously in Bangkok

- Want to apply in mid-June 2026

- Heard the Tokyo embassy is strict, so planning to apply from abroad

MY 3 QUESTIONS:

1) WHICH CATEGORY HAS A HIGHER APPROVAL RATE FOR SOMEONE LIKE ME?

a) Workcation only (with employment contract + payslips + portfolio)

b) Soft Power / Muay Thai (with gym enrollment) + remote work as supporting evidence

I qualify for both, but I'm not sure which strategy gives a better chance of approval and faster processing.

2) BEST EMBASSY LOCATION RIGHT NOW (May 2026)?

Among these three, which is currently giving the smoothest approvals and fastest processing for Japanese applicants?

a) Vientiane, Laos

b) Taipei, Taiwan

c) Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Recent experiences from 2026 would be especially helpful.

3) TYPICAL PROCESSING TIME at the location you recommend?

Days/weeks? Any sudden requests for additional documents?

Thanks so much! Any direct experience from the past few months would be hugely appreciated 🙏