
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: Wheelchairs in Tokyo
I’d say you are both right!
You will be surprised at the amount of walking you need to do – sometimes the accessible route is the longer route! For example, a lot of the elevators in stations were added after the station was built, so they have been added where they can be added, not where they should be for convenience. So you may need to go to the opposite end of the platform for an elevator only to backtrack to essentially the same spot for the next elevator.
On the other hand, while the crowds shouldn’t be an issue, many shops and restaurants are fairly small and may have trouble fitting two wheelchair users at the same time. Additionally, many elevators can only take one wheelchair at a time – so you might take a lot of extra time getting in/out of places.
Since you are debating getting them, I assume you are both somewhat able to walk? Maybe you could get one and take turns?