The Access Dispatch: Spring is upon us!
Catch all the latest from Accessible Japan!
Spring is right ahead of us on the horizon, with Shunbun no Hi (a national holiday in Japan where the lengths of day and night are equal) marking the official commencement of the season. The holiday usually occurs on either the 20th or 21st of March, and is a wonderful time of year to visit Japan, especially for those seeking a little less snow and a little more cherry blossom!
It’s also the perfect time to start planning potential trips to Japan, which is why we’re excited to share more details about our new accessible travel agency directory.
The agencies listed on our new directory specialise in accessible and disability travel. They offer services such as wheelchair-accessible tours, deaf-friendly travel, and specific support for those with mobility needs. Whether you want a fully guided accessible tour, a custom itinerary, accessible cruise excursions, or a complete travel package that manages all accessibility details, you’ll be able to find it!
Keeping the theme of travel planning, this month’s edition of The Access Dispatch is inspired by an article from The Times’ website, titled: ‘12 of the most beautiful places in Japan’. We thought it might be a nice idea to highlight a couple of the places they mentioned and share links from our website where you can find out more information, plus a hotel suggestion near one of those locations.
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Kenrokuen, Ishikawa prefecture
What The Times said:
“Originally, the garden was a private pleasure ground that belonged to nearby Kanazawa Castle and could only be enjoyed by the ruling Maeda clan. It was opened to the public in the 1870s and is now famous for its pretty ponds, pathways, fountains, and decorative features, such as the famous Kotoji Toro stone lantern.”
What we’re saying:
The garden is quite beautiful, but there are certainly limitations due to the hills – particularly for those in manual wheelchairs or using walkers. Since it is located next to Kanazawa Castle, though, it is definitely worth checking out both places at the same time.
Need to rent a powered chair or scooter whilst in Japan? Rent a WHILL power chair or scooter and get moving with ease. Booking via our link helps support what we do at Accessible Japan!
Nikko Toshogu
What The Times said:
”In the mountains north of Tokyo, Nikko combines a striking natural setting with elegant and historic shrines and temples. Chief among them is the ornate Toshogu, where each building is adorned with complex, brightly painted wood carvings by the best 17th-century artisans.”
What we’re saying:
As a UNESCO site, Nikko Toshogu Shrine is historically significant, but visitors should note its distance and limited accessibility, especially for wheelchair users. Being a heritage site, accessibility likely won't improve. Most of the site is viewable on Google Street View, allowing visitors to see inaccessible areas before visiting. The good news is that you CAN definitely visit and see the famous ‘See No Evil, Hear No Evil, Speak No Evil’ monkeys!
Hotel Rec: Hotel Intergate Kanazawa
Hotel Intergate Kanazawa offers a spacious Universal Twin Room designed for full wheelchair maneuverability, featuring a comfortable seating area and twin beds. The accessible bathroom is thoughtfully equipped with a wide entrance, roll-under sink, and comprehensive grab bars for the toilet and tub, which also includes a handheld showerhead and space for a shower chair. For added convenience, guests also have access to a public accessible restroom located on the first floor.
Fun Fact: Japan actually has a "Century-Old Shops Association." It’s basically the ultimate "Old Boys Club," but you have to wait 100 years just to get an invite.