Accessible Japan: it’s easier to visit than you might think

Josh Grisdale has cerebral palsy and has been living in Tokyo for nearly a decade. He runs Accessible Japan, a source of information on accessibility in Japan including general tips tourist attraction reviews and more!

At 6 months of age I was diagnosed with severe cerebral palsy and have used an electric wheelchair since the age of 3. However, there has never been any doubt in my mind that I was going to let that hold me back from leaving frozen Canada and move to the object of my affection – Japan.

What Is It Like Living in Japan as a Wheelchair User?

The first time I visited Japan was back in 2000. Back then using the train had its challenges. Not every station had an elevator, and if there was one, it was often not for public use. So there were many times I have had to get out at a nearby station and drive the rest of the way in my wheelchair.

The first time I went to Akihabara, I was guided through staff-only areas and unceremoniously exited the station via a back alley where the garbage was thrown out! Another time I was carried down a number of flights of stairs by 6 station staff – a mixture of utter fear and gratitude that I still remember 15 years later.

A few years later in 2007, I moved to Japan permanently. A question I often get from both Japanese people and foreigners is “isn’t it harder to live here than in Canada for a person with a disability?”

The answer is a resounding “no!” Japan is a great place for accessibility. It didn’t used to be, but that’s not the case anymore.

Here are 3 great things about accessibility in Japan.

1) Tourist Attractions: Are Japan’s Tourist Attractions Wheelchair Accessible?

A number of years back, Japan put into force a law to ensure accessibility at many places throughout Japan. However, the real reason for the rapid improvement in accessibility is likely to be due to the aging population and the bubble economy of a few decades ago – there are many seniors in Japan with a disposable income who love to travel.

As many of Japan’s tourist attractions are cultural heritage sites, attention is paid to integrating accessibility features with the aesthetics of the site. This may mean entering via a hidden side entrance, but more often than not it will come in the form of a ramp made of aged wood or an elevator designed to look like a temple building. Many of these integrations are not immediately obvious, so before giving up, make sure you ask a staff member or security guard.

2) Transportation: How Accessible Is Public Transport in Tokyo?

Tokyo’s sprawling public transit system looks like a colourful and incomprehensible plate of spaghetti, but here is a secret: it’s actually easier if you have a disability. No need to follow signs in underground labyrinths, if you have a physical disability, simply tell the staff member at the ticket gate where you want to go and then wait while they make arrangements.

They will call ahead to your destination (including any transfers along the way) and then a staff member will direct you to the track. After helping you on the train with a portable slope, you can rest easy knowing that another staff member will be waiting to help you get off. Check out this video to see it in action:

The Bullet Train, or Shinkansen, also features spaces for wheelchairs (including a private compartment if needed) and a toilet that is large enough to handle a wheelchair.

3) Where can you find accessible toilets in Japan?

When traveling in another country, what to do when nature calls is an issue whether you are disabled or not. However, for those with disabilities it can be even more stressful as there are far more regular washrooms in the world than accessible ones.

Instead of a slightly enlarged stall at the back of the washroom that can be hard to use with an attendant, Japan has the ‘multipurpose toilet’.

These extra wide accessible toilets are an entirely separate room located between the men’s and women’s toilets. They are designed not just for people with disabilities, but also for seniors and mothers with young children. They’re equipped with handrails, diaper changing board, baby chair, sinks for cleaning ostmate bags, as well as emergency call buttons.

These toilets are also readily available. They can also be easily found at tourist attractions, public buildings, department stores, larger supermarkets and in parks. Extra Tip: you can also use the Check a Toilet app when you’re on the go.

Apps like this need mobile data, so it’s worth setting up a Japan eSIM before you fly. You’ll need a phone that supports eSIM and isn’t locked to your home network, and it’s worth checking the data allowance and validity suit the length of your trip.

In 2020, Tokyo will be holding the Olympics and Paralympics and is working harder than ever to make the city easier to access for all.

Come visit Japan – it’s easier than you think.

By Josh Grisdale

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Frequently Asked Questions About Accessible Japan

Is Japan wheelchair accessible?

Japan has many accessible transport services, tourist attractions and public toilets. Wheelchair user Josh Grisdale describes substantial improvements since his first visit in 2000. However, accessibility can vary between locations.

Can wheelchair users travel on trains in Tokyo?

Yes. Josh explains how station staff can arrange boarding assistance using portable ramps. They can also contact staff at connecting stations and the final destination to help with transfers.

Are Japan’s tourist attractions wheelchair accessible?

Many tourist attractions provide ramps, lifts or alternative entrances. At historic sites, these features sometimes blend into the original buildings. Josh recommends asking staff about accessible routes before giving up.

Are accessible toilets easy to find in Japan?

Josh reports that multipurpose toilets are common in major public buildings, shopping centres, tourist attractions and transport facilities. Many provide extra space, handrails and other accessible facilities.

Editor’s note (October 2026): This article was originally published before the Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games. It reflects Josh Grisdale’s experiences of living and travelling in Japan at that time. Transport services, accessible facilities and booking arrangements may have changed. Visitors can find further information and more recent accessibility advice through Josh’s website, Accessible Japan.