Navigating Accessibility in Japan: Answering the Top Google Searches About Disability Access (Part 3)
Japan is packed with incredible sights for tourists—from ancient shrines to cutting-edge architecture—so it’s no surprise that among the millions of visitors each year, many are travelers with disabilities. However, the question of accessibility in Japan still comes up for many would-be visitors. In this post, we’re spotlighting two accessible destinations in each of four regions across Japan, offering a snapshot of the experiences available for travelers with disabilities. And if you’re looking for even more accessible travel inspiration, our site has a great deal of information on accessible locations and attractions throughout Japan!
Tokyo: Iconic Highlights with Modern Touches
Tokyo Tower
Towering over the Tokyo skyline, Tokyo Tower invites visitors to experience breathtaking views from its main observation deck, standing 150 meters above ground. On clear days, you might even spot the majestic silhouette of Mt. Fuji in the distance! The journey up to the tower does involve a bit of a climb, as it’s situated on a steep hill, but there are station staff and elevators available to make the approach easier for those who need assistance. Once inside, you’ll find that the observation deck has lowered railings in certain areas, offering unobstructed views for wheelchair users. For a thrilling experience, check out the glass floor sections, where you can see directly down to the streets below. And for those wanting to reach even greater heights, the upper deck takes you an additional 100 meters up, with space reserved for one wheelchair user at a time for a more intimate viewing experience.
Shinjuku Gyoen
If you’re a nature lover feeling like a fish out of water on the busy streets of Tokyo then a visit to the city’s largest and most famous park, Shinjuku Gyoen, is a must! What’s more, you’ll be treated to the most wonderful display of vibrant colors and smells if you are lucky enough to visit during cherry blossom season. When visiting, you’ll find that the park is really accessible, with maps providing clear indications of where the accessible paths, toilets, and areas with gravel to avoid are. The majority of paths are smooth, wide, and easy to navigate, with benches throughout for a quick rest break. Whilst not every area of the park is accessible, such as the Japanese garden for example, there is plenty to see and do when here, including the greenhouse and the Taiwan Pavilion. All in all, a worthy visit and something to check of the Tokyo bucket list!
Kyoto: Tradition with Accessibility in Mind
Fushimi Inari Shrine
Few places capture the spirit of Kyoto like Fushimi Inari Shrine with its thousands of vermillion torii gates winding up a mountainside. Although navigating the whole mountain isn’t feasible in a wheelchair, visitors can access the first section of the gates and experience the shrine’s magic. There’s an elevator to the Torii tunnel entrance, and smooth paths make for a comfortable journey to the inner shrine. Wheelchair-friendly areas also include the main shrine and stage. Just be mindful of the crowds during peak times, as Fushimi Inari is always bustling with visitors.
Nanzenji Temple
Found in Kyoto’s Higashiyama district, Nanzenji Temple showcases serene Zen gardens, traditional architecture, and even a historic aqueduct, if you’ll believe it! Originally built in the 13th century as a retirement villa for the then Emperor Kameyama, it was later converted into a Zen temple to reflect the Emperor’s deep affinity with Buddhism. The main approach is smooth and wheelchair-friendly, though some sections, like the Sanmon Gate, remain inaccessible due to stairs. While parts of the Zen gardens require assistance to access, staff are available to help, and wheelchairs can be borrowed on-site. With its beautiful surroundings and proximity to the Philosopher’s Walk, Nanzenji offers a peaceful retreat and an accessible taste of Kyoto’s Zen culture.
Ishikawa: Traditional Japan Preserved
Higashi Chaya District
Stepping into the Higashi Chaya District is like taking a step back in time, with wooden teahouses and narrow streets reminiscent of Edo-era Japan. While most of the traditional buildings have small steps and may not be accessible, the streets themselves are smooth and easy to navigate by wheelchair, allowing everyone to appreciate the district’s beautiful architecture. Visitors can also explore the Hakuza Gold Leaf Store, where the golden walls of a Japanese warehouse can be admired from the doorway. It’s not ideal and we’d love to be able to say it’s much more accessible, but in our opinion, even with this limited access, the district is still worth heading to even if just for a stroll through.
Kanazawa Castle
When you visit Kanazawa Castle you’ll be offered a glimpse into Japan’s feudal history, with beautiful grounds and reconstructed turrets. While getting up to the entrance involves a bit of an incline, inside, the grounds are mostly flat with level access paths, and accessible toilets are available too. Both the Kahoku-mon and Gojikken Nagaya buildings have ramps for wheelchair users, though the nearby Gyokuseninmaru Garden requires extra effort to reach. But don’t worry—right next door, the famous Kenrokuen Garden provides an accessible alternative.
Shimane: Art and History with a Scenic Twist
Adachi Museum of Art
The Adachi Museum of Art is not only known for its exquisite collection of Japanese art but also for its award-winning Japanese gardens. While the museum itself is accessible with ramps and elevators, some ramps could be steeper than you’re used to and therefore may require assistance. The gardens, visible from multiple viewpoints and benches, offer breathtaking seasonal views without needing to navigate any uneven terrain. Accessible restrooms and wheelchair rentals make for a comfortable visit, allowing art and nature enthusiasts to soak up the beauty.
Omori Town by Iwami Ginzan Silver Mines
Like Kanazawa Castle in Ishikawa, Omori Town, part of the UNESCO-recognized Iwami Ginzan Silver Mines, invites visitors to experience yet another slice of feudal Japan. The main road through Omori is paved, with several accessible shops and a fascinating museum that wheelchair users can explore with relative ease. With accessible toilets available and tactile maps at the World Heritage Center, Omori is a charming town that’ll leave you with a unique sense of the history of the region and the culture that they still preserve to this day.
As mentioned at the beginning of this piece, these are just a few of the many accessible options of places to visit when you are in Japan. For a more comprehensive array of options, head to the various regional sections on our website to see a comprised list of options. Alternatively, if interested in Tokyo in particular, why not consider purchasing our Accessible Japan’s Tokyo – a guidebook dedicated to all things accessibility in Tokyo?
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