Group Description
Looking to travel to Japan and need accessibility information? Join our group discussion on accessible travel in Japan and discover the best tips and tricks.
The Japan group is a community of travelers who are passionate about exploring Japan and sharing their experiences with others. This group is dedicated to discussing all aspects of accessible travel in Japan, including accommodations, transportation, tourist attractions, and cultural experiences, as well as links to accessible travel companies and organizations.
Whether you have been here a million times or planning your first visit, the Japan group is a welcoming community that offers support and encouragement for travelers of all abilities. By sharing their experiences and knowledge, members of the group are helping to make travel in Japan more accessible and enjoyable for everyone.
Mobility Scooters
Mobility Scooters
Posted by Unknown Member on May 31, 2018 at 12:14 pmHello, could you pls let me know what is the current status of the use of mobility scooters in Shinkansen (to go to Kyoto and Hiroshima) and train lines in Tokyo?
Thanks
Accessible Japan replied 6 years, 5 months ago 2 Members · 1 Reply- 1 Reply
Hello,
Thank you for your question. Until recently, mobilitiy scooter users have faced many challenges in Japan (see: https://www.tabifolk.com/forums/topic/travel-with-mobility-scooter/). However, the rules are being changed.
According to JR:
Handle-type electric wheelchairs that can be used
- Wheelchairs with the following approximate dimensions: height and length of 120 cm, width of 70 cm.
- In case of using a car with a deck, they’ll need to use the multipurpose room, so we should verify that the wheelchair is 180 degree turn and straight angle capable.
- It should be able to turn a straight angle in no more than 5 direction changes on a 90 cm wide path. Also, it should be able to do a straight turn on a 100 cm path with no direction changes.
- It should be able to do a 180 degree turn on a path of less than 180 cm width.
In case the conditions are not met
The facilities are designed based on the guidelines provided by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism and they have the above as requirements, as such, if the wheelchair doesn’t meet them, it cannot be used.
Still, far from ideal.
We suggest you contact JR directly and tell them your scooter specifics. You can use the following inquiry form to ask for help directly:
https://entry.jr-odekake.net/webapp/form/18112_quab_1/index.doHope this helps.
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