Getting around Japan with a Disability
Just walking (or rolling) around in a wheelchair is very easy in Japan. Sidewalks are smooth and curbs are cut. Many smaller roads don’t have a sidewalk but just a painted line to indicate where you should go. For the most part Tokyo is very flat, but – being a mountainous country – many areas can feature very steep roads. Charge your batteries!
For those with visual impairment, sidewalks and train stations are equipped with special tiles to indicate safe and unsafe paths.
Getting around Japan using public and private transportation is generally quite accessible, though it does require some planning and knowledge of the available options. Most major train stations, airports, and bus terminals have been upgraded with elevators, accessible restrooms, and staff trained to assist passengers with disabilities. While older stations and smaller local lines may present some challenges, Japan’s commitment to universal design means that accessibility features are continuously being improved. The key is understanding which transportation methods work best for your specific needs and knowing how to access the support services available.
