I want to plant a Japanese Maple tree in my yard.

http://japanesemaplelovers.com/growing-japanese-maples-in-hot-climates/

Call your local extension service office. They can tell you what will work and what won't work in your specific area.

Then do not plant a Japanese Maple....go to the nursery and have them help you select an indigenous tree that looks similar.

While that may be true, Japanese Maples DO like seasons, there are a LOT more varieties out there than the ones you see at Home Depot. Many of these varieties have different looks as well as environmental requirements. And, of course, even if well meaning folks tell you it doesn't 'do well' that doesn't mean it will die. If the soil in your area is not conducive for Japanese Maples, you may have to compromise with planting it in a large container.