Daikanyama is often referred to as Tokyo’s Brooklyn and features high-end fashion boutiques and trendy cafes. Unfortunately, a large majority of the smaller shops are not wheelchair accessible.
Background Information
Part of Shibuya Ward, Daikanyama fits in well with other high-end retail neighborhoods like the nearby Nakameguro and Ebisu. The area has many low-rise concrete building and a spread-out shopping center that feels more laid-back than the nearby Shibuya. The stores tend to be small and up-scale, yet relaxed. There are many cafes with patios offering outdoor seating.
Getting There
Daikanyama can be accessed from Daikanyama Station on the Tokyu Toyoko Line. The station is wheelchair accessible and has a wheelchair accessible toilet.
Accessibility
The Daikanyama neighborhood is made up of a number of small shops and slightly bigger buildings holding multiple stores which are not quite shopping mall size. While some stores are accessible, it seems that Daikanyama has a disproportionate number of stores that are inaccessible to those with physical disabilities.
The many cafes are not immune to this and often have multiple steps. Even the outdoor seating requires going up one or more steps.
While the small shopping centers are better, they tend to have accessible entrances that are hidden around the back or off to the side. Even once in the building, some of the stores still have steps.
There are also a few steep hills.
The shops on the main street tend to be a bit more accessible than those on smaller streets.
While some of the shopping centers have accessible toilets, it might be best to use the one at the train station.
Conclusion
Daikanyama is spread out and laid-back, but since the majority of cafes and boutiques are inaccessible to those with physical disabilities, finding a place to visit may take a long time and end up being frustrating. Those looking for a trendy place to have brunch should consult Gurunavi in advance.
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