6 Recommended Spots for Enjoying Stunning Views and Nightscapes in a Wheelchair!

"Traveling in a wheelchair limits where you can go..." Many people might think this way.

However, in recent years, the promotion of barrier-free environments has increased the number of tourist spots that can be enjoyed even in a wheelchair.

This time, we will introduce six spots where wheelchair users can enjoy stunning views and nightscapes, along with some tips to keep in mind while enjoying these views. Please use this as a reference.

1. Must-See! 6 Recommended Spots for Stunning Views and Nightscapes!

1-1. Experience the Heavenly Scenery in Gifu! Shirakawa-go Observation Deck (Hakusan Shirakawa-go White Road)

The first scenic spot we introduce is the Shirakawa-go Observation Deck in Gifu Prefecture.

This observation deck is located along the 33.3 km "Hakusan Shirakawa-go White Road" that connects Hakusan City in Ishikawa Prefecture and Shirakawa Village in Gifu Prefecture, offering views of the World Heritage Site Shirakawa-go and the Tateyama Mountain Range.

A 350-meter-long slope leads to the observation deck, running parallel to a 6% gradient road. Although slightly steep, the path is designed wide enough for wheelchair access.

Additionally, the multipurpose restroom in the parking lot of the observation deck is equipped with a universal seat (nursing bed) and an ostomate-compatible toilet, ensuring comprehensive barrier-free facilities for peace of mind.

Thus, the Shirakawa-go Observation Deck is designed with barrier-free access in mind, allowing everyone, including wheelchair users, the elderly, and families with small children, to enjoy the scenery easily.

By the way, the Hakusan Shirakawa-go White Road is open from early June to November 10, making it a limited-time scenic spot that can only be enjoyed from summer to fall.

Reference: Hakusan Shirakawa-go White Road｜Hakusan Forest Road Management Council

1-2. Enjoy the Panoramic View of Tokyo! Tokyo City View

Tokyo City View is an observation facility located on the 52nd floor of the "Roppongi Hills Mori Tower," 250 meters above sea level, offering a panoramic view of the city.

There are both indoor and outdoor observation decks, but accessing the outdoor deck requires climbing stairs, so wheelchair users can only visit the indoor area.

However, even indoors, the windows are high, providing a wide view from a wheelchair perspective, offering a truly stunning view.

From the indoor observation corridor, you can see the city of Tokyo, including Tokyo Tower and Skytree, and on clear days, even Mount Fuji.

Additionally, the "Sky Gallery" on the same floor hosts events and exhibitions throughout the year, so why not enjoy them along with the view?

Reference: Tokyo City View – TOKYO CITY VIEW｜Mori Building Co., Ltd.

1-3. 360-Degree Scenic View! Shin-Hotaka Ropeway in Nagano

The Shin-Hotaka Ropeway is a mountain cable car offering a panoramic view of the Northern Alps (Hida Mountains) from an altitude of 2,200 meters.

As Japan's only double-decker ropeway, it has attracted attention and surpassed 18 million total passengers in 2021.

The view from the observation deck on the rooftop of Nishihotakaguchi Station has earned two stars in the "Michelin Green Guide Japon."

The expansive panorama of the majestic Northern Alps throughout the seasons is truly breathtaking!

For wheelchair users, it is recommended to board from the Shin-Hotaka Onsen Station, which has elevators and slopes, and head to Nishihotakaguchi Station.

Staff will assist with ramps for boarding the gondola, ensuring safe access for those with disabilities.

The "Yari Corridor" observation deck, which juts out like a boomerang in the "Mori of the Summit" area, is also accessible by wheelchair.

However, some areas have gravel paths, requiring extra effort when pushing a wheelchair, so be cautious.

Reference: Shin-Hotaka Ropeway｜Okuhida Tourism Development Co., Ltd. Management Department

1-4. 360° Panoramic View! Kurumayama Observation Terrace (Sky Terrace)