
Group Description
Connect with travelers with disabilities and welcoming locals, offering tips on accessible hotels, wheelchair-friendly attractions, and transportation in Japan. From Tokyo’s bustling Shibuya Crossing and historic Asakusa to Kyoto’s golden Kinkaku-ji, Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial Park, and the hot springs of Hakone, whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, this is the place to ask about accommodations, getting around, or inclusive activities – someone here has likely experienced it before. You’ll find personal stories, travel tips, and recommendations for cultural, historical, and nature experiences. This group supports mobility aid users, along with travelers who have sensory sensitivities, low vision, and hearing loss, helping you enjoy a more accessible Japan adventure.
Reply To: Shinkansen reservation required?
Thank you for that information. We did take the Shinkansen from Tokyo to Kyoto and are currently on it as I respond heading back to Tokyo. I did see that the multipurpose room was an option and also read somewhere that it is also used by nursing moms or families with small babies. I didn’t want to take it away from any other people so we just booked the seat on the accessible car with space for a wheelchair. However, I agree with everyone it does take time to make the reservation in person. Some staff are more knowledgeable about the wheelchair needs than others which also contributed to time and whether communication is an issue or not as well. I tried to book it before our trip, but the smartex site was not working for me. We’re just happy things have been as smooth as it has been so far though finding the right elevators to go up and down at each station has been a little 👎. But we’re managing considering we come from a place that doesn’t rely heavily on public transportation like trains and buses.