"I wish I could fly freely in the sky."
Many people have probably wished for this at least once. Activities like paragliding can make that dream come true.
In recent years, barrier-free paragliding, which allows takeoff without a running start using special buggies or wheelchairs, is becoming more popular.
In this article, we introduce four paragliding facilities where you can enjoy the experience in a wheelchair. We explain the conditions for safe enjoyment and the preparations needed for the day in detail. If you're looking to try something new this summer, be sure to check out this article.
1. [No Running Required] Experience the Sky with Wheelchair Paragliding
The actual flight is conducted in a "tandem" format, where you fly with an experienced instructor. Additionally, other support staff assist during takeoff and landing, ensuring a comprehensive support system on the ground, so even first-timers can feel at ease as they embark on their sky journey.
2. [Latest in 2026] Four Facilities for Wheelchair Paragliding
2-1. [Yamagata] Nanyo Sky Park
Located in Nanyo City, Yamagata Prefecture, Nanyo Sky Park has been accepting wheelchair paragliding experiences since April 2016, making it an area equipped for wheelchair flights.
Using a "Fly Chair", a wheelchair specifically designed for paragliding, even those who find running difficult can take off into the sky while seated. You can take off from the mountaintop and enjoy a sky journey of over 5 minutes with a 300m altitude difference. You can drive to the takeoff site, and the mountaintop is equipped with barrier-free restrooms and a log house.
参照：パラグライダー体験について｜山形バリアフリー観光ツアーセンター
For more detailed information, please refer to the following article. If you're interested, be sure to check it out.2-2. [Gunma] Top Field Gunma
Top Field Gunma, established in 1997, evolved from the Wind Valley Paragliding School founded in 1987. The staff are veterans with over 10 years of paragliding experience, prioritizing safety-conscious instruction based on their extensive experience and knowledge.
This facility offers wheelchair-accessible vehicles for easy transport to the mountaintop. During takeoff, support staff assist on both sides to help with takeoff. For safe flights, they have also introduced French-made wheelchair-specific paragliding harnesses.
Additionally, in May 2024, they introduced special restrooms accessible to wheelchair users, further enhancing the facility's accessibility.
2-3. [Shiga] locus-biwako-fa
Located in Shiga Prefecture, locus-biwako-fa offers a wheelchair paragliding experience with breathtaking views of Lake Biwa.
They use a special wheelchair equipped with a paragliding harness attached to a pipe frame. Additionally, the three wheels are fitted with suspension to cushion the impact upon landing.
2-4. [Kyoto] Birds Paragliding School
Located in Kameoka City, Kyoto Prefecture, Birds Paragliding School has been accommodating wheelchair flights in the Kansai area since its opening in 1999. They offer experiences for wheelchair users and those with walking difficulties under the name "Buggy Paragliding."
Using a special buggy for takeoff, no running is required, and the instructors flying with you are all experienced, allowing even first-timers to feel at ease.
