5 Accommodations Actively Engaged in Universal Tourism!

"Traveling might be difficult because I'm in a wheelchair or need assistance..." Many people might have given up on traveling due to these feelings.

However, now a new form of travel called "Universal Tourism" is expanding, allowing everyone to enjoy it.

Universal Tourism is a travel style where everyone, including the elderly, people with disabilities, pregnant women, and families with infants, can safely enjoy accommodations and transportation. In Japan, about one-third of the population falls into this category, and barrier-free inns, hot springs, and hotels are emerging rapidly.

This article carefully selects six advanced accommodations and services that might make you think, "I can go here!" It will help you find the perfect place to stay to enjoy your trip with peace of mind.

Use this as a reference to help plan your next trip.

1. Introducing Accommodations Like Hotels and Inns Enjoyable for Those with Disabilities or Illnesses

"I want to enjoy hot springs and inns even in a wheelchair," "I'm worried about whether I can stay safely"—to address these concerns, the hotel and inn industry is adopting the concept of "Universal Tourism."

Currently, many facilities are improving their environments from three perspectives: "hardware," "software," and "information dissemination," ensuring that even people with disabilities or illnesses can travel with a sense of security and anticipation.

• Hardware Improvements
  Efforts to eliminate physical barriers, such as removing steps and installing ramps and handrails, have become common. Additionally, more inns and hotels are widening doorways and providing bathrooms and toilets that are wheelchair accessible.
  
• Software Improvements
  The quality of hospitality continues to improve.
  Special meals for allergies and chronic illnesses, buffet serving services, communication support through sign language and writing, and support from service assistants are available. These invisible considerations help alleviate travel anxiety.
  
• Information Dissemination Improvements
  Official websites and brochures are evolving.
  Efforts to enlarge text and choose easy-to-understand language are spreading. With detailed information available in advance, it's easier to plan trips and enjoy them without anxiety.

The following article is also helpful for people with disabilities looking for hotels and inns.

Reference:

2. Five Accommodations Committed to Universal Tourism

2-1. Glamping Facility "Flat Glamping Nagasaki" Produced by Medical Professionals with Medical Staff On-Site

"Even if I need medical support, I want to spend time in nature."

Fulfilling this wish is "Flat Glamping Nagasaki" in Nagasaki Prefecture.

This glamping facility, produced by medical professionals, has a theme of "Making Travel More Flat," with all dome tents designed to be barrier-free. Additionally, a staff member with a physical therapist qualification is always on-site, allowing wheelchair users and those needing medical care to stay with peace of mind.

With features like bed rails, rental welfare equipment, a covered BBQ space, and ostomy-friendly toilets, the facility is designed for comfort while enjoying nature. Enjoy a special time with the breathtaking views of Nagasaki.

【Basic Information】

• Address: 1812-17 Nagaura-cho, Nagasaki City, Nagasaki Prefecture 851-3212
• Phone: 095-885-2300

【User Reviews｜Rating: 4.7 (Jalan)】※3 is the median

• The staff's attentiveness was very pleasant, and I was able to spend my time comfortably!
  
• The staff's response was excellent! They promptly delivered anything needed and always responded with a smile, which was very impressive!
  
• I was impressed by the wide toilets and bathrooms that even wheelchairs could access, making it accessible for a wide range of people.

If you want to know more about Flat Glamping Nagasaki, the following article is also helpful.

Reference:

Reference: Flat Glamping Nagasaki

2-2. Enjoy Hot Springs in a Wheelchair! "Hakone Kowakien Yunessun Mori no Yu"

"I want to enjoy hot springs even in a wheelchair."

Making this hope a reality is the popular inn "Hakone Kowakien Yunessun Mori no Yu" in Hakone.

A special room available for only one group was created through a large-scale renovation, allowing guests to enter the hot spring while remaining in their wheelchair. This provides a new option for those who have given up on hot springs.

There are reports from wheelchair-using travelers who have experienced it, and the comfort and coziness are highly rated. Experience a hot spring trip where everyone can truly relax.

【Basic Information】

• Address: 1297 Ninotaira, Hakone-machi, Ashigarashimo-gun, Kanagawa Prefecture 250-0407
• Phone: 0460-82-4126

【User Reviews｜Rating: 3.7 (Jalan)】

• The temperature of the water in both the indoor and outdoor baths was just right, making it perfect.
  
• The quality of the hot spring was not too hot, allowing for a relaxing and long soak.
  
• The outdoor bath surrounded by greenery was very quiet and soothing.

A video of a wheelchair traveler's bathing experience is also available for reference.

Reference: Hakone Kowakien Yunessun Mori no Yu｜Hakone All Mountain

Reference: Hakone Kowakien Yunessun Mori no Yu

2-3. "Support Inn Minamichita" with a Lift-Equipped Jet Bath and Assistance Services by Inn Staff

"Even if I need assistance, I want to relax at an inn."

Fulfilling this wish is "Support Inn Minamichita" in Aichi Prefecture.

As Japan's first welfare inn, it offers hospitality that addresses the concerns of each guest. All rooms have sliding doors for easy movement, and care beds and assistance services by staff can be requested.

The bathhouse has tatami flooring to prevent slipping, and the private jet bath with a lift allows for safe bathing with staff assistance. Meals include minced food and allergy-friendly options, and the barrier-free access from Meitetsu Kowa Station eases travel concerns.

【Basic Information】

• Address: 21-1 Uchiumi, Minamichita-cho, Chita-gun, Aichi Prefecture 470-3321
• Phone: 0569-89-8011

【User Reviews｜Rating: 4.8 (Jalan)】

• During the reservation process, they asked about meal types and bed orientation in detail, allowing us to approach the day with peace of mind. The entire facility is barrier-free, allowing wheelchair movement, and even a 1-year-old child could stay safely.
  
• The staff, who are well-trained in hospitality, the delicious food, the safe and spacious bath, and the clean rooms were all excellent.
  
• Traveled with my wheelchair-bound mother. The hospitality was great, and the food was delicious.

Reference: Support Inn Minamichita

2-4. "Naniwa Issui," Winner of the Gold Award at the International Universal Design Awards

"I want to stay at an inn recognized as a pioneer in universal design."

"Naniwa Issui" in Shimane Prefecture is an advanced barrier-free inn highly rated both domestically and internationally.

Its outstanding efforts were recognized with the Gold Award at the IAUD International Design Awards 2020. The inn has focused on barrier-free design for over 16 years, with no steps throughout the facility.

Rooms equipped with bath lifts and shower chairs, and guest rooms with ample space for wheelchair rotation, are among the diverse facilities available.

Additionally, paid bathing assistance by certified care workers can be arranged. With well-equipped facilities and warm support from the staff, you can enjoy a relaxing time with peace of mind.

【Basic Information】

• Address: 63 Chidoricho, Matsue City, Shimane Prefecture 690-0852
• Phone: 0852-21-4132

【User Reviews｜Rating: 4.9 (Jalan)】

• Early in the morning, a male staff member called the elevator and opened the automatic door at the entrance ahead of time when he knew we were leaving. I was impressed by the consideration to not be a burden.
  
• Traveled with a family member with physical disabilities, and the staff were very kind.
  
• Used with my elderly mother. The wide spaces at the room entrance and private dining room were very appreciated as she uses a walker.

Reference: Naniwa Issui

2-5. Enjoy Stunning Views of Sakurajima! Bathing Assistance Available at "SHIROYAMA HOTEL Kagoshima"

The renowned hotel in Kagoshima, "SHIROYAMA HOTEL Kagoshima," offers breathtaking views of Sakurajima and Kinko Bay.

The universal room, equipped with a step-free design and electric reclining beds, provides a spacious and comfortable relaxation space.

In 2021, the private hot spring was renovated with a universal design, and bathing assistance services by specialized staff are available.

Meals cater to a wide range of needs, including pureed food, allergy-friendly options, and vegetarian menus, with communication support through writing and multilingual services. Enjoy your trip to Kagoshima with peace of mind and stunning views.

【Basic Information】

• Address: 41-1 Shiroyamacho, Kagoshima City, Kagoshima Prefecture 890-8586
• Phone: 0570-07-4680 (Reservation Center)

【User Reviews｜Rating: 4.5 (Jalan)】

• The staff's response was appropriate, and I was grateful for the cane and wheelchair provided for moving within the hotel. They even drove us to the parking lot with the shuttle car on the way back. The service was excellent.
  
• It was indeed the No.1 hotel. The service was great, and the view from the open-air bath and breakfast were the best!
  
• Whenever I go to Kagoshima, I always stay at this hotel. The hot spring with a view of Sakurajima is the best! And the breakfast is also excellent.

Reference: SHIROYAMA HOTEL Kagoshima

3. [Must-See for Wheelchair Users] IKKEL, a Site Featuring Information on Barrier-Free Hotels and Inns

Have you ever experienced "feeling anxious because there wasn't detailed barrier-free information" when looking for a place to stay? Solving this problem is the portal site "IKKEL," specializing in barrier-free information.

From the perspective of people with disabilities and the elderly, it introduces room and facility conditions with detailed photos and 3D images. Users can check points like "Is the hallway wide enough for a wheelchair?" or "Are there handrails in the bathroom?" in advance.

With extensive search functions that allow filtering by destination and conditions, it's easier to find the perfect accommodation for you.

Note that IKKEL is not a reservation site but a support site focused on providing reliable information. Use it as a strong ally in your travel planning.

Reference: IKKEL, a Site for Information on Barrier-Free Accommodations

Additionally, if you're looking for travel destinations for wheelchair users or the elderly, this article is also recommended.

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