Things to Know for Enjoying Travel in a Wheelchair | Comprehensive Guide on Mobility Tips and Booking Methods

Have you ever given up on traveling in a wheelchair because it seemed too challenging? With proper research and preparation, you can enjoy a comfortable and barrier-free trip even in a wheelchair.

In this article, we will provide useful information for those who are considering giving up on traveling or going out for various reasons such as:

Not knowing how to get around
Not knowing how to board
Not knowing how to make reservations
Not knowing how to find accommodations

We'll explain everything from planning your trip, transportation options, to available support services to make your wheelchair journey comfortable. Be sure to read to the end.

1. How to Plan a Wheelchair Trip

1-1. Choosing Accommodations

When selecting accommodations for a wheelchair trip, use the following checklist as a guide:

Items to Check	Checkpoints	Notes
Barrier-free Facilities	Is there an entrance and hallway wide enough for a wheelchair (minimum 90cm, ideally over 120cm)? Is the slope gradient safe (ideal is below 1/12)? If there's an elevator, is the interior at least 140cm x 110cm?	Confirm actual width and gradient with photos or inquiries
Guest Rooms	Is there enough space for wheelchair movement (ideal is a 150cm circular turning space)? Is the bed height 40-50cm, making it easy to transfer? Is there a clear path for wheelchair movement in the room?	Check wheelchair-accessible room facilities when booking
Bathroom	Is there a wheelchair-accessible bathroom? Are there shower chairs, handrails, etc.? Is the floor made of non-slip material?	Check layout and equipment placement with photos
Toilet Space	Is there a width of at least 90cm for smooth wheelchair entry into the toilet? Are handrails installed at appropriate positions (30-35cm from the wall, 70-75cm from the floor)? Is there enough space in front or beside the toilet (minimum 90cm x 120cm)?	Confirm actual toilet layout and handrail positions
Meals	Are there no steps in the restaurant or dining area? Are there seating arrangements for wheelchairs? Is room service or flexible meal options available for allergies?	Check the dining area's crowd level if necessary
Facility Movement	Are there no steps on main routes inside the facility (if there are steps, are there ramps)? Are there automatic doors and elevators with wide turning spaces? Are corridors and hallways at least 90cm wide?	Check facility maps or consult staff in advance
Access	Is there a barrier-free route from the nearest station or bus stop to the accommodation? Can wheelchair-accessible taxis or shuttle services be arranged? Is there step-free access from the parking lot to the accommodation?	Check public transport access and boarding facilities
Staff Support	Are there staff familiar with wheelchair users? Do they provide accurate information about facilities and support when contacted in advance? Is there a support system in place for emergencies (equipment failure, health issues)?	Check responsiveness through reviews
Surrounding Environment	Are nearby tourist spots and facilities barrier-free? Are surrounding roads and sidewalks wide with few steps? Are parks and walking paths designed for comfortable wheelchair use?	Check the barrier-free map of the accommodation's vicinity
Other	Is there support for charging electric wheelchairs? Are there no restrictions on bringing assistive devices or medical equipment? Are there reviews from wheelchair users to confirm usability?	Consult in advance for charging or special equipment use

Reference: What is the Width of a Wheelchair? Explanation of the Required Path Width｜City Lift Co., Ltd.
Reference: 2.9 Guest Rooms｜Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism

1-2. Making Reservations for Your Destination

When booking accommodations, it's recommended to use major reservation sites rather than official websites. This is because major reservation sites often offer exclusive campaigns and discounts, making it more economical to stay. Additionally, you can easily accumulate points, which can be used for discounts on future bookings.

Here are five recommended major reservation sites:

Jalan
Rakuten Travel
Yahoo! Travel
Agoda
Unipp

It's recommended to search using keywords like "barrier-free" or "universal." Unipp specializes in accommodations with barrier-free or universal rooms, listing over 3,000 options. On the other hand, while booking directly through official websites might not be as cost-effective, they may offer unique plans or discounts not available on major reservation sites.

Compare plans and prices between major reservation sites and official websites to make an informed decision.

When booking, inform the accommodation that you are a wheelchair user and request necessary support in advance for peace of mind.

1-3. Planning Your Route to the Destination

Once you've decided on your accommodation, the next step is to plan your route to get there.

The main modes of transportation are:

Shinkansen (bullet train)
Airplane
Train
Car

If using public transportation, it's necessary to make reservations or purchase tickets in advance. Even if traveling by car, advance reservations are required for rental cars or taxis other than personal vehicles.

For detailed reservation methods, refer to "2. Reservation Methods and Precautions for Using Public Transportation and Mobility Support Services."

1-4. Researching Nearby Tourist Spots and Planning Your Itinerary

Research barrier-free information for nearby tourist spots and plan your itinerary. You can find barrier-free information on official websites or on sites that compile nationwide barrier-free information.

Reference:

Consider transportation methods and travel time to tourist spots to plan an efficient itinerary.

Also, check if there are designated parking spaces for disabled individuals or multi-purpose restrooms at tourist spots.

2. Reservation Methods and Precautions for Using Public Transportation and Mobility Support Services

2-1. Using the Shinkansen for Wheelchair Travel

When using the Shinkansen in a wheelchair, first make a reservation for a reserved seat. Reservations can be made through Midori no Madoguchi (ticket office), phone, or online, and are available from one month before the travel date (10:00 AM) to two days prior. Since wheelchair seats are limited, it's best to reserve early.

If you need support at boarding stations, there are three reservation methods:

Apply directly at the Midori no Madoguchi
Reserve by phone
Reserve online

When applying directly at the Midori no Madoguchi, make a reservation for support at the boarding station. For phone reservations, contact the support dial of each JR company.

JR East: 050-2016-1600
JR West: 0570-00-8989
JR Kyushu: 0570-07-8787

For online reservations, you can apply for tickets and support through the following websites:

Reference: Wheelchair Accessible Seat Web Application｜Hokkaido Railway Company
Reference: Shinkansen Wheelchair Accessible Seat Web Application｜East Japan Railway Company
Reference: Using the Wheelchair Accessible Seat Application Form｜Central Japan Railway Company
Reference: Guide to Wheelchair Accessible Seats｜West Japan Railway Company
Reference: Wheelchair Accessible Seat Web Application Page｜Shikoku Railway Company
Reference: Kyushu Shinkansen Wheelchair Accessible Seat Web Application Guide｜Kyushu Railway Company

You will be asked to present your disability certificate when receiving your ticket, so be sure to bring it with you. For more detailed information on boarding and alighting the Shinkansen, refer to the following experience article.

Reference:

2-2. Using Airplanes for Wheelchair Travel

Support for wheelchair users on airplanes varies by airline. First, inform the airline that you are a wheelchair user when purchasing tickets and discuss the support you can receive.

If you need support on the departure day, inform the airline's counter during check-in. Generally, you will need to check in your usual wheelchair and transfer to a special wheelchair for boarding.

One important point is to allow plenty of time. Airports can be large, and moving around can take time, so complete procedures early. Additionally, if you use medical equipment or oxygen tanks, you may need a doctor's certificate, so it's best to inquire with the airline in advance.

For more detailed information on flying with a wheelchair, refer to the following article.

Reference:

2-3. Using Trains for Wheelchair Travel

When using trains in a wheelchair, it's important to check the barrier-free information at boarding stations and request support from station staff.

Check the following facilities for station barrier-free information:

Ramps
Elevators
Wheelchair stair lifts
Wheelchair-accessible toilets

The "Rakuraku Odekake Net" is a convenient way to search for barrier-free information at each station. Simply enter the station name to easily find information on ramps, elevators, and more.

Reference: Rakuraku Odekake Net｜Public Interest Incorporated Foundation Traffic Ecology Mobility Foundation

To request support from station staff, contact each railway company by phone or speak to staff at the ticket gate. Arrive at the station 30 minutes before departure and inform the staff.

For unmanned stations, it's essential to inquire by phone in advance to ensure staff availability. Check whether boarding stations are manned or unmanned. More and more trains have wheelchair-specific spaces, doors that allow boarding without ramps, and other features to make travel easier for wheelchair users.

2-4. Renting a Welfare Vehicle for Wheelchair Travel

If you plan to rent a welfare vehicle at your travel destination, advance reservations are necessary. Welfare vehicles are limited in number and availability varies by company. Confirm what type of equipment and features you want in a welfare vehicle in advance.

For example, welfare vehicles may have ramps, lifts, or rotating seats. It's important to choose a vehicle type that suits your disability.

Additionally, you'll need a driver's license, My Number card, and disability certificate to rent a welfare vehicle, and an ETC card if using highways, so don't forget to bring them. Rental reservations are usually made by phone or online.

Inform the rental company that you need a welfare vehicle when making a reservation. For detailed steps and recommended rental companies, refer to the following article.

Reference:

2-5. Enjoying Wheelchair Travel by Personal Car

Traveling by personal car is the easiest way to move around in a familiar vehicle. With a personal car, there's no need for reservations like with public transportation, and you can travel without worrying about time.

A personal car with a wide and tall hatchback space is recommended for loading a wheelchair. Recently, even some compact cars offer easy wheelchair loading.

Reference:

Did you know there's a system that provides partial subsidies for highway tolls and gasoline costs when you apply using a disability certificate? Highway toll discounts are available for one personal car per person, requiring online and municipal office registration. Gasoline subsidies vary by municipality, so check your local regulations.

For detailed information and application methods, refer to the following articles.

Reference:

3. What Should Families with Medically Dependent Children Be Aware Of?

Even families with medically dependent children can travel without giving up, as long as they pay attention to key points. For example, oxygen suppliers offer a "Travel Support Service."

This service provides pre-installed oxygen concentrators at accommodations and prepares replacement oxygen tanks and cannulas. Contact your home oxygen supplier to inquire about using this service.

Additionally, when traveling with medically dependent children, luggage tends to increase, so sending luggage to the accommodation in advance is one option. If using medical equipment that requires power, ensure there are available outlets at your destination.

For peace of mind, book a hotel near a medical facility in case of sudden health changes. For more tips on traveling with medically dependent children, refer to this article.

Reference:

4. Preparing to Enjoy Wheelchair Travel More

4-1. Essential Items and Tips for Wheelchair Travel

To enjoy wheelchair travel, you can make your trip more comfortable by bringing everyday items and convenient travel accessories. First, never forget the medications you regularly take. Medications are not something you can easily purchase at a convenience store if forgotten, so ensure you have them with you.

Next, if you use an electric wheelchair, you'll need a charger and spare battery. Some battery types are not allowed on airplanes, so check in advance.

Additionally, sitting in a wheelchair for long periods can strain your back and hips, so having a cushion is a good way to travel comfortably.

When visiting tourist spots, bring your disability certificate to take advantage of available discount services.

Reference:

If traveling by car, having a disabled parking permit allows for smooth parking in designated spaces. For more information on convenient travel items for wheelchair users, refer to the following article.

Reference:

4-2. Suitable Clothing and Tips for Wheelchair Travel

When choosing clothing for wheelchair travel, focus on the following three points:

Ease of movement
Ease of wearing and removing
Safety

While it's tempting to wear unfamiliar clothes on a trip, restrictive clothing can lead to unexpected accidents. For example, tops with wide sleeves can get caught in wheelchair wheels, and hems can easily get dirty from rubbing against wheels, so it's best to avoid them.

Additionally, to avoid putting a strain on your body due to temperature changes, choose clothing that's easy to put on and take off. Especially for those with temperature regulation issues, a compact blanket is convenient.

For shoes, sneakers with non-slip soles are recommended to prevent slipping off the wheelchair foot support. Avoid sandals or shoes without non-slip soles.

While ensuring comfort, don't forget to enjoy the fashion aspect of travel.