InsideJapan is working to improve its itineraries for travellers with disabilities and has put together a wheelchair accessible trip for 2022.
The operator has partnered with specialist company Accessible Japan which has advised the operator on how to further expand its offering for clients with accessible needs.
The ten-night self-guided Wheelchair Accessible Golden Route, from £3,330 based on a twin share, visits Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka, and its addition comes as Japan hosts the 2020 Tokyo Paralympics.
It includes breakfast and private guiding in an accessible car. If customers are not using their own chairs, InsideJapan can provide a wheelchair as part of the package.
Highlights include the chance to explore Kyoto’s Golden Temple; see Tokyo from the top of the Skytree; see Mount Fuji from Lake Kawaguchi; and feed the ‘sacred’ deer of Nara.
The operator, which has offered accessible trips for some time, said it was now “its mission” to open up Japan to as many travellers as possible and raise awareness of Japan as an accessible destination.
Almost all of Tokyo’s 882 rail stations, 96%, are now classed as accessible, and facilities have improved due to the Paralympics and the country’s ageing population, according to InsideJapan. Most hotels have accessible rooms while accessible toilets are also widely available. Tokyo’s Sensoji temple, which dates back to 645AD, has a wheelchair elevator on the side of it (picture).
InsideJapan product manager Madeleine Bromige said: “A goal of InsideJapan has been to open the country and culture to all and to improve the experience of travellers no matter what their requirements.
“We have pre-planned accessible trips and continue to tailor [trips] to suit all customers depending on their needs. Thankfully, Japan is really well set up and continues to improve.”