Barrier Free

Disability access in Japan has improved greatly in recent times, whether that be making buildings more disability-friendly or providing opportunities for those with disabilities to engage with activities. However, there is still some way to go and many improvements to make in all parts of Japan to ensure that people with disabilities get the support needed to live fulfilling lives. Kumamoto is a prefecture that lacks the level of provision you’d find in major cities such as Tokyo and Osaka. There are limited bespoke activities although accessible facilities are improving. Here is an overview of what you can find. Disability-accessible Venues in Kumamoto Japan has passed a law known as the “heartful building law” that encourages public facilities such as hospitals, shops, theaters and hotels to improve their disability access. Some grant funding is available for this, however the law stops short of making it a legal requirement for buildings to be fully accessible, for example wheelchair-friendly. This means that many venues continue to fall short of catering for disability needs. Some of the most disability-friendly places in Kumamoto include: Kumamoto Castle – is now fully wheelchair-accessible and there is also a tourist minibus running from the castle that can…