Wheelchair-Friendly Adventures in Nagoya, Aichi!

LEGOLAND® Japan Resort

Why Visit?

Embark on a memorable adventure to LEGOLAND® Japan Resort, a paradise for both the young and the young at heart, designed thoughtfully to cater to guests with mobility challenges.

### Getting There

Located in Nagoya, LEGOLAND® Japan is accessible by public transport. Take the Aonami Line from Nagoya Station, and in just 24 minutes, arrive at Kinjofuto Station. The park is a convenient 10-minute stroll from here, with pathways well-suited for wheelchairs and mobility scooters.

### At the Park

Upon arrival, head to the Guest Services to pick up a Resort Accessibility Guide. This handy booklet details all wheelchair-accessible rides, shows, and attractions. Wheelchairs are available for rent at the park entrance, ensuring all guests can navigate the park’s smooth and wide pathways with ease.

### Must-Visit Attractions

1. Miniland: Marvel at miniature replicas of iconic landmarks made from over 10 million LEGO bricks. The viewing areas are perfectly accessible, allowing for unobstructed views of these intricate creations.

2. LEGO® Factory Adventure Ride: Experience this fully accessible ride that takes you on a journey through a LEGO factory. Special accessible cars ensure that everyone, regardless of mobility, can enjoy the magic of seeing LEGO bricks being made.

3. Rescue Academy: Compete with fellow guests in fire-fighting and police rescue missions. The activity area is equipped with adjustable features to accommodate guests in wheelchairs.

### Dining and Relaxation

For a bite to eat, head over to Knight’s Table, an accessible eatery offering sumptuous buffet-style meals with tables that accommodate wheelchairs. Restrooms throughout the park are also wheelchair-friendly, marked clearly with signs.

### Interesting Facts

LEGOLAND® Japan Resort is a leader in accessibility, ensuring that the magic of LEGO is available to all. The park frequently hosts events aimed at enhancing the experience for guests with special needs, making every visit both fun and comfortable.

Embark on this wheelchair-friendly adventure where creativity meets accessibility, and every corner promises joy and excitement tailored for all!

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology

Why Visit?

Embark on a fascinating journey through the roots of one of the world’s automotive giants at the Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology. Situated in the vibrant city of Nagoya, this museum is not only a tribute to Toyota"s legacy but also a beacon of accessibility, making it an ideal destination for visitors in wheelchairs or on mobile scooters.

Getting There

The museum is conveniently located about a 5-minute walk from Sako Station on the Meitetsu Nagoya Line. If you"re arriving at Nagoya Station, Sako Station is just a 15-minute ride away. The path from the station to the museum is well-paved and flat, ensuring a smooth ride for wheelchair users.

Start Your Tour

Begin your tour at the museum’s Textile Machinery Pavilion, where Toyota’s journey commenced as a loom works. This pavilion does a stellar job in showcasing the intricate machinery developed by Sakichi Toyoda, the founder, which revolutionized Japan"s textile industry. Exhibits are spaciously laid out and all areas are wheelchair accessible.

Proceed to the Automobile Pavilion

Next, wheel over to the Automobile Pavilion, which captures the evolution from textile to automotive, marking Toyota"s shift to car manufacturing post-WWII. The pavilion is equipped with ramps and elevators, making it easy to explore the exhibits that include car prototypes and assembly line robots. One fascinating display is the Toyota AA, Toyota"s first passenger car model.

Interactive Sessions and Workshops

Don’t miss the live demonstrations and workshops where robots and machines are still operational. They provide audio guides and placards in multiple languages ensuring that all visitors, regardless of disabilities, can fully engage with the displays.

Relax and Reflect

Conclude your visit at the museum café, which is accessible and offers a range of snacks and beverages, perfect for a leisurely reflection on the innovative spirit of Toyota.

Practical Information

Ensure to check the museum’s website for any special events or accessibility updates before your visit. The museum is open from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM, providing ample time to explore and enjoy the exhibits at your own pace.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

SCMAGLEV and Railway Park

Why Visit?

Unveiling the Marvels of SCMAGLEV and Railway Park: A Wheelchair-Friendly Itinerary

Morning: Arrival and Exploration

Start your journey to the SCMAGLEV and Railway Park by taking the Aonami Line from Nagoya Station, disembarking at Kinjofuto Station. This route is fully accessible, ensuring a hassle-free ride. Once there, the park is just a three-minute roll away, welcoming you with wide, automatic doors.

As you enter this temple of train technology, marvel at the grand display of actual trains, including the sleek Maglevs and historic steam locomotives, all showcased in a spacious, barrier-free environment. The park"s thoughtful layout ensures that all exhibits are accessible, with ramps and elevators facilitating easy movement.

Midday: Deep Dive into Train History

Dive deeper into the exhibits with an audio guide that offers insights into the marvels of Japanese railway technology and its evolution. Don’t miss the maglev simulator (advance booking recommended), which is designed to be accessible for everyone, offering a thrilling taste of the future of rail travel at speeds up to 500 km/h.

Afternoon: Interactive Fun

Post lunch at the park"s café, which has accessible seating, head to the train operation simulators. These are a treat for those who"ve always wanted to experience driving a train. The simulators are adjustable to accommodate different access needs, ensuring everyone gets a go.

Late Afternoon: Souvenir Shopping and Departure

Wrap up your visit by browsing through the gift shop, which is equipped with aisles wide enough for mobility devices. Pick a model train set or a book on the history of Japanese railways as a memento of your visit.

As you make your way back to the station, reflect on the rich history and advanced technology you"ve witnessed, all made accessible through thoughtful design. This visit isn"t just about seeing trains; it"s about experiencing the pinnacle of transportation technology in a space that welcomes everyone.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Nagoya Za Kabuki Café

Why Visit?

Wheelchair-Friendly Tour of Nagoya with a Highlight Visit to Za Kabuki Café

Morning: Nagoya Castle and Surrounding Gardens

Start your day at the iconic Nagoya Castle, easily accessible by subway. Take the Higashiyama or Meijo Line and alight at Shiyakusho Station. From there, it"s a wheelchair-friendly path to the castle. The castle grounds are well-equipped with ramps and elevators, making exploration a breeze for those on wheels. Revel in the majestic architecture and the blooming cherry blossoms if you"re visiting in spring.

Lunch: Oasis 21 and Sakae

Head to Sakae via the subway"s Meijo Line, disembarking at Sakae Station which is equipped with elevators and ramps. At Oasis 21, a stunning multi-facility complex, enjoy a meal in the Galaxy Platform area where you can dine under a glass roof with views of the Nagoya TV Tower. The pathways are smooth and spacious, ideal for wheelchairs and scooters.

Afternoon: Za Kabuki Café

Post-lunch, make your way to the unique Za Kabuki Café. Located an accessible bus ride away from central Sakae, this café offers a fascinating cultural immersion into the world of Kabuki. The entire venue is accessible, featuring ramps and wide doorways. Savor a Kabuki-themed drink while enjoying live demonstrations or talks about the traditional Japanese theatre form. Don’t miss the chance to interact with performers in full regalia—a rare treat!

Evening: Nagoya Port Aquarium

Conclude your day with a visit to the Naganao Port Aquarium, accessible via the subway and a short bus ride. The aquarium is renowned for its accessibility, offering wide aisles and ramps. Be mesmerized by the dolphin shows and the rich marine biodiversity displayed.

Each venue in this itinerary promises a seamless and enriching experience for those using wheelchairs or mobility scooters, ensuring that Nagoya remains a delightful destination for every traveler.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Museum Meiji-Mura

Why Visit?

Welcome to the enchanting world of Meiji-Mura, an open-air museum that transports you back to Japan"s Meiji Period (1868-1912), offering a seamlessly accessible journey for those on wheels. Nestled in Inuyama, near Nagoya, this museum is a wonderland for history enthusiasts and architecture aficionados.

Getting There

The museum is accessible by train and bus from Nagoya. Take the Meitetsu Inuyama Line from Meitetsu Nagoya Station to Inuyama Station. From there, board the Meitetsu bus bound for Meiji-Mura, which offers a convenient drop-off right at the museum entrance. These buses accommodate wheelchairs, ensuring a smooth ride.

Exploring Meiji-Mura

Upon arrival, you"ll find that Meiji-Mura is well-equipped to welcome visitors using wheelchairs or mobility scooters. You can rent a wheelchair at the entrance for free on a first-come, first-served basis, ensuring a comfortable experience.

Start your tour at the iconic Uji-yamada Post Office, a charming Western-style building where you can send a postcard right from the Meiji era. Smooth pathways and ramps ensure easy access.

Next, make your way to the St. Francis Xavier"s Cathedral, relocated from Kyoto. The cathedral features a ramp and offers a glimpse into the spiritual life of the era. Don’t miss the intricate stained glass windows, perfectly viewable from a seated position.

A must-visit is the Kureha-za Theater, where traditional performances are held. The theater provides designated spaces for wheelchairs, ensuring you don’t miss out on the cultural showcases.

Dining

Enjoy a meal at the Kanazawa Prison Guardhouse restaurant, which is accessible and offers traditional Japanese cuisine. The paths leading to the restaurant are wheelchair-friendly, lined with picturesque scenery that enhances your dining experience.

Interesting Fact

Many of the buildings in Meiji-Mura were dismantled and relocated to preserve their historical value, including the lobby of Frank Lloyd Wright’s Imperial Hotel, which survived the catastrophic 1923 Great Kanto Earthquake.

Finish your day by soaking in the panoramic views of the Iruka Pond, a serene spot perfect for reflection and relaxation. Meiji-Mura’s commitment to accessibility allows everyone to enjoy a full day of historical exploration and architectural admiration.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.