Dangotravel - For travel in Japan, just Dango.

You think that place is amazing because that's the only place you know

The Birth of the Initial Idea

In 2019, I embarked on a walking journey from Tokyo to Osaka, traversing through countless towns and villages. Along the way, I encountered scenes and atmospheres that perfectly captured the Japan I had always imagined—serene temples, traditional architecture, and warm local communities. It was a profoundly enjoyable experience that allowed me to discover the country at my own pace. Yet, as I passed through various regions, I couldn't help but notice the empty shopping streets, the quiet local businesses, and the untapped potential hidden in these less-traveled areas. While I was savoring this tranquil journey, a troubling thought emerged: despite the abundance of incredible tourism resources scattered throughout Japan, information naturally gravitates toward a few popular destinations. People would rather wait in line for two hours at a crowded tourist spot to experience it for just 10 minutes, while countless authentic gems remain undiscovered. This realization struck me as deeply unfortunate—so much beauty and culture left unexplored simply because people don't know these places exist.

I think we should do something for non-native Japanese speakers traveling in Japan

The Beginning of Dangotravel

In the winter of 2023, I visited an izakaya with Takahashi-san—a local establishment that was nothing short of exceptional. Despite having lived in Japan for many years, I encountered flavors and dishes I had never experienced before. The warmth of the atmosphere, the authenticity of the cuisine, and the genuine hospitality created a memorable evening. However, there was one significant challenge: I could barely read the handwritten menu. As I struggled to understand the offerings, I began to reflect on my journey as a foreigner in Japan. Even though I was deeply interested in exploring various types of sightseeing spots and dining experiences, I often felt hesitant and anxious because I lacked the essential information needed for non-native Japanese speakers about the places I wanted to visit. This experience crystallized a thought that had been forming in my mind: 'I think we should do something for non-native Japanese speakers traveling in Japan.' I realized that I had likely missed countless wonderful places, authentic experiences, and meaningful cultural encounters simply because the information wasn't accessible to me. This became the catalyst for Dangotravel—a platform dedicated to making Japan's rich cultural landscape accessible to everyone, regardless of their Japanese language proficiency.

Our Vision

Liberating Japan Travel from Popularity Constraints

Breaking Free from the Crowd

We envision a future where travelers are no longer confined to crowded tourist hotspots simply because they lack information about alternatives. Our platform liberates Japan travel by revealing the hidden gems, authentic local experiences, and off-the-beaten-path destinations that remain undiscovered. We believe every region, every neighborhood, and every local business deserves to be explored and appreciated, not just the ones that appear on popular travel lists.

Elevating Inbound Travel Experiences

Enriching Cultural Encounters

We are committed to enhancing the quality of inbound travel experiences by providing accessible, comprehensive information that empowers international visitors. Through our platform, travelers can discover deeper cultural connections, authentic dining experiences, and meaningful interactions with local communities. We aim to transform Japan travel from surface-level tourism to profound cultural immersion, ensuring every visitor leaves with cherished memories and genuine understanding of Japanese culture.