JAPAN

JAPAN

Known as the ‘land of the rising sun’, Japan is rich in history, culture and gadgets. Home to over 127 million people, it is hard to run out of things to do and see here. Tokyo is Japan’s capital and home to 12,989 million people and the Emperor and Empress of the country.

TOKYO

Divided into 23 wards, you can choose to visit historic temples, experience the latest advances in technology, take a trip to Disney or go on a shopping spree. The wards are extremely far apart but public transport is accessible and quick. Cabs have a reputation of being expensive so trains are the best option. When you arrive at the train station, ensure that you ask for assistance. A transport worker will meet you and escort you onto the train and when you arrive, a worker will collect you from the train with a portable ramp and show you to the correct exit.

Tokyo is highly accessible except for some sushi restaurants which are downstairs and certain old monuments. The Sensoji Temple in Asakusa, is one of the most worshipped, and a lift has been built at the back, to ensure everyone can have a viewing.

Japanese people have a ‘can-do’ attitude and help you as much as they can when access becomes a problem. Many do not speak English but it is possible to be understood.

Hotels offer excursions to districts outside of the Capital but many places are mountainous and old, so make sure they are accessible for you before you book. Coaches are also used for transportation, so you may not be able to get onto them.

Tokyo is full of hotels but I stayed at the Keio Plaza in Shinjuku. The area is full of shops, restaurants and bars and has the world’s busiest train station. The double room had an adapted bathroom, including a board over the bath with overhead shower, and a typical electronic toilet! The hotel has 13 restaurants and 4 bars, making it a very comfortable place to stay.