Founded in 2011, Nagomi Visit is an NPO that brings together local hosts and international guests through the experience of cooking and eating at the hosts’ homes. Run by founder and CEO Megumi Kusunoki and COO Alisa Sanada, the program was recently awarded the Japan Foundation Prize for Global Citizenship, and has exceeded expectations in terms of its growth and popularity. The company’s goal is to be a cultural exchange program that is accessible to everyone, easy to use, and where real friendships form.

With 900 hosts all over Japan, from Hokkaido to Okinawa and around 100 to 200 people participating every month, Nagami Visit offers one of the best ways to meet locals and a great chance to learn about Japanese culture while cooking up some delicious Japanese food. It is also a great way to visit areas off of the beaten track and experience Japan like a true local.

Website: www.nagomivisit.com