Reply To: Accesibility in Okinawa
Hello,
For on the main island, you will need to use a taxi to get around. I can introduce a company to you if needed.
The plane from Naha to Ishigaki is accessible – however, you may need to tilt the chair backrest, or put it on the side as the height of the storage area is likely only 80cm. What type of wheelchair will you be using?
Some of the buses on Ishigaki are wheelchair accessible. So getting around on the island should be ok. You can use Google Translate here: http://www.azumabus.co.jp/free/#barrier-free
As for getting to Hateruma Island, I just called the boat company and only the 2nd boat is accessible. The 1st and 3rd are not (apparently it is due the timing of the tides – when the tide is low you get on the 2nd floor of the boat at Hataruma Island but the boat only has steps down to the 1st floor so when you arrive back at Ishigaki Island you cannot get down to the 1st floor without walking).
The stargazing tower is on the opposite side of the island from the port, and takes a 45min bicycle ride… the website said the planetarium is unusable at the moment due to its age.
