Accessible Japan: The Access Dispatch 08/25
Your monthly round up from your friends at Accessible Japan!
こんにちは from Tokyo!
September is nearly here, and in Japan, that means more than just cooler evenings — it’s also the month where we begin gearing up for a busy season of cultural and global events. Early October will bring tsukimi (moon-viewing) celebrations, followed closely by the closing of Expo 2025 in Osaka-Kansai. It’s an exciting stretch ahead, filled with opportunities for both tradition and innovation.
As we step into this new season, we’d love to see Accessible Japan reach even more people who care about inclusive travel. If you know someone — a friend, colleague, or family member — who might enjoy what we share, please pass this newsletter along. Word-of-mouth is one of the best ways our community grows. (And if you, or they, feel like upgrading to a paid subscription to the newsletter, not only will you get new posts and updates delivered right to your inbox, you will also be helping us support Japanese travel writers with disabilities.)
Inside this edition, you’ll find:
Two brand-new blog posts you won’t want to miss
The final stretch of our long-running quiz
Another carefully chosen accommodation recommendation
Plus a couple of surprising facts about accessibility in Japan
Thanks, as always, for being part of this journey with us.
Hibari Hostel, Kyoto
Hibari Hostel invites guests to experience the warmth of a 1933 machiya townhouse in the Suzaku area, just one stop from Kyoto Station.
Recently renovated by its owner, an occupational therapist, the first floor offers smooth access throughout, including a lowered kitchen, grab-railled bathroom, and a superior room featuring an electric medical bed. It’s a rare chance to enjoy traditional Kyoto architecture without compromising comfort.
👉 Discover more about Hibari Hostel on our site or book it on Trip Advisor or Expedia.
Disability Arts Festival at Expo 2025
Expo 2025 in Osaka-Kansai is set to be one of the biggest events of the decade, and alongside the futuristic exhibits, there will be something truly special: a celebration of disability arts.
From October 8–11, the “Here I Am, (and) Where Are You…” International Festival of Culture and Arts by Persons with Disabilities will bring the Expo to life with traditional performances like Iwami Kagura, a bold dance collaboration between Condors and Handles, and an Inclusive Disco hosted by DJ OSSHY.
Visitors can also explore interactive exhibits and enjoy inclusive food experiences.
👉 [Read more on Accessible Japan]
Tokyo Hotels with Roll-In Showers
In Tokyo, finding a true roll-in shower can feel like hunting for unicorns — most hotels still rely on bathtub-style unit baths. But don’t worry, we’ve done the detective work for you.
Our new guide highlights a few high-end hotels that actually get it right, offering proper roll-in showers where independence comes first. The list is short, the demand is high, and the rooms go quickly — so if this feature is a must for you, consider this your inside tip.
👉 [Read the full article on Accessible Japan]
Did you know? You can get Fortune Slips at Vending Machines?
In Japan, you can buy omikuji (traditional fortune slips usually found at shrines) from vending machines in some areas. It’s a modern twist on an old custom — instead of drawing one at a temple, people grab their fortune alongside a drink or snack.
Our Monthly Quiz!
Ready for the next quiz question?
Each answer’s first letter will help you piece together a mystery word.
This month’s question:
What is the name of the traditional Japanese alcoholic drink made from fermented rice?
Need a recap of the earlier questions? Just reply and we’ll send them your way.
Only a few more to go before it’s time to solve the puzzle!
🎁 The first correct answer wins an Accessible Japan T-shirt!
— We’ll be dropping the mother of all clues somewhere online before the final question of the quiz. So you don’t miss it, make sure you’re following Accessible Japan on Facebook and Instagram, and that you’re subscribed to our YouTube channel!