The Access Dispatch: July '25
Your monthly curated update of news, views, and interesting stuff, courtesy of Accessible Japan!
東京からこんにちは！ (Hello from Tokyo!)
Thanks for tuning into the latest edition of Access Dispatch — coming to you straight from the heart of Japan.
In a recent poll, we asked what content you’d like to see more of on our website and social channels. The top request? Accessible hotels!
At first, we were a little surprised — we expected destinations and attractions to lead the way. But the more we thought about it, the more it made sense. If you’ve traveled to Japan before, you know that finding truly accessible hotel rooms can be a challenge.
Even in large hotels, it’s common to find just one or two rooms labeled “accessible,” and those often come with compromises — like wet-room setups where a shower chair sits beside a deep tub, making transfers tricky.
That’s why we’re doubling down on our efforts to review and highlight accessible accommodation across Japan. Whether you’re planning your first trip or your fifth, we want you to have the clearest and most accurate information possible.
So stay with us — and stay tuned to accessible-japan.com for regular updates!
And if there is a hotel you would be interested in knowing more about, leave it in the comments and we’ll add it to our “next up” list!
Building a New Okinawan Tradition: The Yuimaru Beach Festival
Wheelchair traveler Tatsuya Miyo shares the inspiring story behind the Yuimaru Beach Festival in Okinawa — a community event where people with disabilities, families, and students come together to enjoy the beach, try banana boat rides, share a BBQ, and learn from one another in a relaxed, inclusive setting. Rooted in the Okinawan spirit of yuimaru (“helping each other”), the festival is about more than fun — it’s about connection, accessibility, and building a future where everyone belongs.
Sponsored
Something New! Accessible Taxis and Transfers!
Finding accessible taxis in a new place can be a daunting task, which is exactly why we’re thrilled to be commencing with the listing of accessible taxi operators in Japan. Starting with … Wilgo!
Wilgo is a wheelchair-accessible transportation service in Tokyo, offering rides from airports to destinations and beyond, including sightseeing and cultural outings. With a lift-equipped Mercedes-Benz van, wheelchair rentals, interpreter apps, and accessible seating support, Wilgo makes exploring Tokyo more convenient and inclusive.
DID YOU KNOW? There’s a Train Station with No Entrance or Exit
The Seiryu Miharashi Eki station in Yamaguchi Prefecture is built on a scenic riverbank with no roads, buildings, or platforms — just a place to get off, enjoy the view, and get back on the next train. It was built solely for appreciating the natural beauty, with no other purpose.
Ready for the next clue in our quiz?
Remember — the first letter of each answer spells out a word!
Here’s your next question:
What is the name of the Japanese castle town known for its historic preservation and proximity to the Japanese Alps?
Need a recap of the last three questions? Just reply and we’ll send them your way.
Only three questions to go… and then it’s time to guess the word!
🎁 The first correct answer wins an Accessible Japan T-shirt!