General Information
Wheelchair Travel in Japan
Safety
Japan is known to be one of the safest countries in the world. Even primary school children walk to school alone. It is unlikely that you will be involved in a crime while travelling in Japan, and the police are trustworthy. Everyone can enjoy travelling in peace!
And many Japanese people are also known to be polite and kind. They will support your journey with their spirit of “Omotenashi”(hospitality)! However, many Japanese people are not fluent in foreign languages and may show shyness, but many will still be there to help you.
Road
Many roads are paved with concrete and are not difficult to wheelchair through. (They are not cobbled like in Europe).
Historic building sites, such as shrines and temples, may have gravel paths.
Wheelchair Size
Japanese size standards for manual/electric wheelchairs are the same as international standards, with a maximum size of 70 cm (width) x 120 cm (length) x 109 cm (height). Train aisles, for example, are designed based on this size. (27.5 inch x 47.2 inch x 72.9 inch)
Therefore, if your wheelchair is custom-built and exceeds these sizes, you should be aware that passage may be difficult.
Contact us to find out if the transport you want to use is accessible for your wheelchair!
Elevator
Most elevators in Japan are wheelchair accessible, but in rare cases, smaller elevators are installed in smaller buildings and are just barely the size of a wheelchair. In such cases, it is best to have a carer or, if you are travelling alone, ask the staff for assistance.
Transportation
Local trains and subways
Japanese trains and subways are punctual and have a very well-developed route network in major cities. Therefore, many travelers use trains, and it is probably one of the most convenient ways for wheelchair users to get around.
Due to the station structure, there may be a gap between the platform and the car, so it is a good idea to ask the staff at the ticket gate to carry a ramp for you.
One thing to be aware of, however, is Japan’s infamous crowded trains. (Have you seen them on TV or in anime shows?). During the morning and evening hours, the trains are overflowing with people and there is no space for wheelchair passengers. Therefore, if you want to travel by wheelchair, you need to plan your trip after the morning peak (around 10:00 am) and until the evening (around 4:00 pm).
If you want to enjoy your trip without worrying about time, consider chartering a wheelchair lift car.
Shinkansen and express trains
Have you ever wanted to ride the Shinkansen? The view of Mt. Fuji from the train windows is unbelievably wonderful!
Shinkansen and limited express trains have reserved wheelchair spaces, and it is possible to reserve a small private room. The Shinkansen is probably the most convenient way to travel between Tokyo and Kyoto.
The biggest problem, however, is that you may have to wait more than 3 hours at the ticket counter to purchase a ticket for a wheelchair. To avoid wasting your time in Japan, advance ticket arrangements are recommended.
Contact us to arrange wheelchair tickets for Shinkansen and limited express trains.
Airline
Major airlines are considerate of wheelchair users, and in Japan, Japan Airlines actively supports wheelchair users. When booking a ticket, it is a good idea to provide details about your condition and the medical equipment you use, and discuss the flight with them.
To save money on airfare, you may be able to reduce costs by booking international and Japan domestic flights together.
We can also arrange airline tickets and request support for wheelchair users.
Airport Transfer
From major international airports to city centers where hotels are located, trains are very convenient, and many trains have wheelchair spaces.
On the other hand, if you are at a regional airport or your hotel is far from a train station, you will need to charter a wheelchair lift car.
Request wheelchair space ticket reservations for express trains or arrange for wheelchair lift cars.
Taxi
If you are able to transfer from your wheelchair to a car seat, it is possible that you will be able to use the box-type taxis in large cities. In this case, your wheelchair will need to be folded and stored in the trunk by the driver.
On the other hand, if you need to get into the car in your wheelchair, or if your wheelchair is not foldable, you will need to charter a car with a wheelchair lift. Most taxi companies do not have such lift cars.
Contact us if you would like to charter a wheelchair lift car!
Rent-a-car
Renting a car and hiring a driver is another option.
*Chinese driving licenses cannot be used in Japan.
We can make car rental reservations and arrange drivers for you!
Bus
Unfortunately, for wheelchair users who are unable to walk, it has to be said that buses are not a viable option for transport.
Many buses have wheelchair signs, but most buses are crowded and there is almost never enough space to get in with a wheelchair.
We recommend considering other options. If you want to book a long-distance bus, make sure to check with the bus company in advance.
Ferry/Ship
Car ferries allow you to board with your car, and you can also take an elevator up to the deck. If you charter a lift car, using a car ferry to cross to the island will be a great travel option!
With regular ships, some ships allow you to board with your wheelchair, and some do not. We recommend checking in advance.
Of course, we can also make ferry/ship reservations for you!
Culture and Customs
Religion
Many Japanese are tolerant of religion.
In Japan, many people have traditionally believed in Shinto and Buddhism. Although these are two separate religions, you will often find Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples on the same site.
Many of these are also historically important buildings, so we recommend that you visit them.
Whatever your religious beliefs, the Japanese will welcome your visit!
However, please be polite and respectful. For the Japanese, the stones, trees and even mountains in front of you are often regarded as gods ( Mt Fuji is a famous god!).
The Japanese believe that gods dwell in all things in the natural world.
Currency and payments
In Japan you can now use credit cards and electronic money in cities and tourist areas, but when you leave the city you may only be able to use cash. It’s probably a good idea to carry some Japanese yen in cash.
By the way, tipping is not necessary at all!
Convenience store
In Japan, there are 24-hour convenience stores called “konbini” throughout the city, such as Seven-Eleven, Lawson and FamilyMart.
You can buy food, drinks and basic daily necessities at these stores.
Onigiri (rice balls) are very popular! Why not try them?
Ryokan (Japanese inn) and hotel
There are two main types of accommodation in Japan: ryokan and hotels. In a ryokan, you often take off your shoes before entering the room and can sit on tatami mats to experience the unique atmosphere of Japan. In many cases, dinner and breakfast are included in the price.
Of course, there are also wheelchair-accessible rooms, so be sure to ask.
As for hotels, there are various types, from budget to luxury.
If you would like to know about recommended wheelchair accessible accommodation, please contact us!
Onsen (hot Spring)
On a trip to Japan, you can’t miss the “Onsen” hot springs!
If you wish to experience the traditional Japanese culture of large public baths where many people enter together, this may be possible if you have a caregiver of the same gender who can assist you. You will need to get out of your wheelchair at the entrance to the changing rooms.
Another way to enter the onsen is to reserve a private bath for an hour and a family member of the opposite gender can assist you.
There are also hotels and Ryokan that have their own private onsen in your room.
It is important to note that most large Japanese bathhouses do not accept tattoos. If you have tattoos, it is better to reserve a private bath or a ryokan with a private onsen in your room.
We are here to support your Onsen experience to the fullest!
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Flights, trains, chartered cars, hotels, activities, we can arrange it all!