Getting around Fukushima in a wheelchair
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Getting around Fukushima in a wheelchair
Hi,
I assume that getting to Fukushima by train would not be an issue, however, I wonder what public transportation is like within the prefecture.
Once someone has arrived in Fukushima, would they likely use the train or buses to get around to local attractions?
Obviously, not every bus will be accessible like in Tokyo, but are a majority? Is there a map to plan your route by?
Thanks!
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6 Replies
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Thanks for the question Josh,
I think the Tohoku Shinkansen and Fukushima Station are quite accessible, but the local bus system is not very well developed. Wheelchair rentals are available from the Tourist Information Center. Taxi is probably the best way to get around the city.
The Fukushima Barrier-Free Tour Center has an online map with accessibility information for accommodation, and tourist areas. It has photos of parking, rooms, and bathroom facilities: https://www.fukushima-bftc.jp/?locale=en
The most popular tourist attraction in Fukushima City is Hanamiyama in early April. We have the ‘jinriki’ (人力) service, and volunteer guides. We made a video about it a few years ago:
https://youtu.be/9tyBUUOuakEOne of the local fruit orchards, Azuma Orchard, has accessible fruit orchards where wheelchair users can try fruit picking.
Google Map: https://goo.gl/maps/FWudmkczALg3h1kt9From the accommodation on the map above I really recommend Yumori Onsen Hostel for all international guests. They have a wheelchair accessible suite and onsen.
https://yumori-hostel.jp/en/hostel/ -
That is amazing! Great work in the video ????
I might pop by in the spring. What is the best season / month?
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The best time for Hanamiyama is usually the first few weeks in April. But with global warming and less snow during winter, the cherry blossoms have been slowly creeping forward. It’s hard to estimate this early, but I think the weekend of April 2-3 will be the best time to visit. April 9-10 should still be quite good, but it will be more crowded. There is usually a 1 week lag between peak flowers and peak crowds.
If any TabiFolk users can visit let me know. I’d love to show everyone around, introduce our accessible tourism staff, and get everyone’s opinions of a few local attractions.
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You have my attention!
Perhaps we can do the planning here on TabiFolk (so the info is accessible for everyone) and then write about it in a blog!
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I just found that the Fukushima Sports Association for the Disabled (福島県障がい者スポーツ協会) are holding some paraskiing events in the winter. The next one is January 23rd. I don’t think they are targeting inbound tourists, but I’m sure they would welcome anyone that is interested.
http://www.pref.fukushima.lg.jp/site/fsad2011/paraskiing.html
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That is fantastic to learn. I often get asked about places in Japan for Paraskiing, so even if it isn’t a possibility for January this time, good to have a place to recommend 👍
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