Welcome to Nagomi Visit, a unique, non-profit organization dedicated to fostering genuine connections between travelers and local Japanese families. Unlike typical tourist attractions, Nagomi Visit offers a truly authentic glimpse into Japanese life, away from the usual tourist traps. Forget impersonal hotels and rigid itineraries – here, you’ll experience the warmth of Japanese hospitality firsthand, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
More Than Just a Visit: Building Bridges Through Shared Experiences
At Nagomi Visit, we believe in creating meaningful connections rather than simply facilitating transactions. We don’t treat our hosts like commodities – they are passionate volunteers who open their homes and hearts to welcome you. Our goal is to help you find that long-lost friend or family member you’ve always yearned to meet.
With over 1200 dedicated hosts spread across Japan, from bustling cities to tranquil countryside, you’ll find the perfect match for your interests. Explore the map below to discover the vast array of locations waiting to be explored.
A Glimpse into Everyday Life: Sharing Meals, Laughter, and Stories
Imagine enjoying a home-cooked meal with a friendly Japanese family, exchanging stories and learning about their traditions. This is the heart of a Nagomi Visit. You’ll spend approximately two to three hours at your host’s home, sharing laughter, cultural experiences, and perhaps even a bit of origami with the children.
Don’t worry about language barriers – all hosts are fluent in English, having acquired their language skills through travel, studies, or work. While English proficiency varies amongst our hosts, they are all eager to connect with you.
Since 2011, over 8,000 families, couples, and solo travelers from all corners of the globe have embarked on unforgettable Nagomi Visits. We believe that genuine connections thrive when money isn’t involved, which is why we charge a small fee of 5,500 yen to cover operational costs.
Real People, Real Stories: What Makes Nagomi Visit So Special
Our guests often describe Nagomi Visit as a truly unique and heartwarming experience.
“When I booked the Nagomi Visit, everyone was overjoyed and excited. No one felt nervous or scared. Our children were instantly comfortable with the host’s family and children, and they were having a blast folding origami and sharing silly moments together. Even though they couldn’t speak the same language, they managed to connect through laughter and shared activities. It was amazing to see how easily they bonded and played together. This experience was completely different from anything else we did on our trip, but it was undoubtedly the most special.” – Gery from the US, with a family of six including four children
“I read about Nagomi Visit on an Instagram post and was immediately hooked. However, when I told Felix about it, he was a bit hesitant. We’re both not very outgoing, so the idea of visiting strangers in a country where we didn’t speak the language seemed a bit daunting. But our hosts, Naru and Kaori, met us at the train station with a warm welcome, maps, and helpful information. They are such a lovely couple, and I had already exchanged emails with Naru beforehand, so I felt reassured. Don’t hesitate, just go for it!” – Cheryll from Germany, with her partner
“My wife and I, both with mixed cultural backgrounds (European and African), were eager to learn about Japanese culture. We had two unforgettable moments. When we arrived at the train station ahead of time, we went outside to take pictures of the surroundings. Our host arrived, recognizing us instantly, which was such a delightful surprise! The second moment was when we saw our host’s children quickly learning to use the fidget spinners we had given them just two hours earlier. It’s incredible how children can pick up new things so quickly.” – Jean-Charbel from France, with his partner
Embrace the Unconventional: Explore Japan Beyond the Tourist Trail
Nagomi Visit offers a multitude of ways to discover the real Japan, far beyond the usual tourist hotspots.
Whether you travel with family and friends or venture solo, Nagomi Visit has something for everyone. Grandparents and children alike can enjoy a truly immersive experience, while solo travelers can overcome the loneliness of traveling alone by connecting with welcoming hosts.
Venture off the beaten path with the help of our friendly hosts, who will introduce you to hidden gems in rural Japan and share their local knowledge. Take a day trip to a traditional farmhouse, savor regional delicacies you won’t find in restaurants, and help prepare a delicious dinner in your host’s kitchen.
Join us on a Nagomi Visit and experience the true essence of Japan – a land of warm hospitality, rich traditions, and unforgettable experiences.
Ready to Connect? Here’s How to Get Started
Start your Nagomi Visit adventure by filling out our host request form. This simple yet essential step allows us to match you with the perfect host based on your interests and preferences.
Tell us where you’d like to visit, when you’re traveling, and who will be joining you. Provide as much detail as possible about your hobbies and interests so our hosts can get to know you better. The more personalized your request, the better the chances of finding a perfect match.
Submit your request at least 72 hours before your desired date and time. You’ll receive email notifications if your chosen hosts are interested in meeting you and available on your preferred dates.
Take your time to browse the host profiles to get a glimpse into their lives, interests, and locations. This will help you make an informed decision and connect with someone you’ll resonate with.
Once you find a host you’d like to meet, respond to their message and get to know them better. If you’re ready to take the plunge, book your Nagomi Visit and complete payment within 72 hours. Each offer has a 72-hour window, so act quickly to secure your spot!
Not sure if a host is the right fit? No problem! Simply decline the offer with a quick message expressing your appreciation.
Communication is the key to a memorable Nagomi Visit. Continue chatting with your host until the day of your visit, and get ready for an experience that will stay with you forever.
