【For Beginners】Top 3 Club Events Nationwide Accessible for Wheelchair Users

Many events are held at clubs nationwide.

These events are often enjoyed with drinks, creating a lively atmosphere throughout the venue, which is quite appealing.

When thinking of club events, one might typically imagine them as standing events.

However, there are many events where even those in wheelchairs can participate and enjoy.

This article introduces club events across the country that are accessible to wheelchair users.

Additionally, we'll also introduce clubs nationwide that are wheelchair-friendly, so be sure to check them out!

1. Things to Check for Enjoying Clubs and Club Events in a Wheelchair

If you want to enjoy clubs or club events in a wheelchair, make sure to check if the venue is accessible for wheelchair users.

Be cautious, as some events are designed for standing, which might not be accessible for wheelchair users.

Many events specify in their rules whether they are accessible to wheelchair users, so be sure to confirm this in advance. If accessibility is unclear, don't hesitate to inquire.

Additionally, many clubs are located in basements or upper floors of buildings.

Some may only have stairs without elevators, or the entrances might be too narrow for wheelchairs, so it's important to check if the club is barrier-free.

It's also a good idea to check the variety of drinks and food available beforehand.

2. Three Club Events Nationwide Accessible to Wheelchair Users

2-1. Diversity is the Norm: "INCLUSIVE"

INCLUSIVE TOKYO is an event organized by Ryosuke Genma, a certified care worker.

As an inclusive club event, it allows people to enjoy music and drinks regardless of age, gender, occupation, or disability.

It can also be a party where you enjoy meeting new people, so you might encounter unexpected connections!

In the past, the event has featured former RIP SLYME member SU as a DJ player, and charismatic hairstylist Yuya Nara and talent Ayana Kato as talk guests, and was held in Shizuoka.

It made its debut in Shibuya in 2023.

Being barrier-free, many wheelchair users participate, and children can also join.

Each INCLUSIVE TOKYO event has a theme, and the first one focused on "Disability × Sexuality."

The event is noted for its uniqueness, with exhibitors like TENGA, which offers self-pleasure products usable by any gender.

If you're interested in the organizer, Gen, be sure to check out his Instagram.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gen1106

2-2. Universal/Inclusive Club Event "UNICLU"

UNICLU is an event held by the general incorporated association Univa, which operates under the motto "Enrich the Lives of People with Disabilities."

Univa hosts events with strong messages, based on the belief that "education" means to feel and think.

UNICLU is a coined term combining Universal and Inclusive.

UNICLU aims to create an environment where people with and without disabilities can share the same space without distinguishing between each other.

Originating in Kumamoto, UNICLU held a major event at SPACE KUMAMOTO in 2023.

Reference: General Incorporated Association Univa

The theme is how people with and without disabilities can enjoy music together, featuring DJs, live performances, and dance showcases.

2-3. Medical Welfare Entertainment Ubdobe

The NPO Ubdobe creates content leveraging expertise in healthcare and welfare, as well as the perspectives of those with rare diseases and disabilities.

They aim to achieve active social participation for everyone.

NPO Ubdobe hosts SOCiAL FUNK!, an indoor club event that explores art and human sciences.

In addition to DJ and live performances, there are talks by researchers and booths to experience cutting-edge technology.

Events are held without regard to disease, disability, or sexuality, offering a variety of experiences.

There are also unique experiences available, such as trying out a "drift wheelchair" or experiencing "incontinence" if you can stand with assistance, making it an event where wheelchair users can have new experiences.

Reference: NPO Ubdobe

3. Three Wheelchair-Accessible Clubs Nationwide

3-1. Tokyo "V2 TOKYO"

V2 TOKYO is renowned as the largest nightclub in Roppongi.

Originally opened in 2013 on the top floor of the Roa Building, it has maintained its status as the number one club in Tokyo.

In 2018, it relocated to a prime location just a minute's walk from Roppongi Station, further increasing its prominence.

V2 TOKYO offers the allure of enjoying music from international DJs, with events held daily.

It features sound and light performances using cutting-edge technology, providing a sensory experience.

For wheelchair users, a clean gate is available to sanitize wheelchair wheels, showcasing thoughtful attention to detail.

Additionally, with no upper floors, moving around is easy, and the entrance has a step eliminator, making it a recommended club for wheelchair users.

Reference: V2 TOKYO

3-2. Osaka "NOON+CAFE"

NOON+CAFE originally opened in 1994 under the name ClubDAWN.

Since its rebranding in 2004 as NOON+CAFE, it has remained a central figure in the Kansai club scene.

At NOON+CAFE, you can enjoy art and music.

During lunch hours, Western-style café menus are offered, making it a recommended spot for dining as well.

Outside nightclub hours, it can be used for various parties and exhibitions.

Although the entrance has a step and is narrow, prior contact allows for staff assistance.

Club events are held on the first floor, minimizing inconvenience inside, allowing you to fully enjoy the events.

Reference: NOON+CAFE

3-3. Kyoto "METRO"

The club METRO in Kyoto is said to be the longest-running club in Japan.

With over 1.5 million visitors, it is a beloved venue with a loyal fan base.

The events held span a wide range of genres, including J-Pop, rock, reggae, and electronica.

Events are held nightly, regardless of weekdays or weekends.

Besides being a nightclub, it also hosts live events.

Additionally, it offers cultural events linked to music, such as "Metro University," which features various lecturers.

At METRO, prior contact allows for various support for wheelchair users.

The process involves using an elevator from the first floor of the building to the basement, paying the entrance fee at the elevator hall, and being guided through a nearly flat (with one small step) soundproof door route to the venue.

Reference: Kyoto METRO