In our previous article, we shared an accessible travel guide titled “Exploring Tokyo and the Kanto Region with Ease.”
This time, we’re heading west to introduce the Kansai area—Kyoto, Osaka, and Kobe—where TTtrips’ welfare vehiclesare most frequently dispatched!
This vibrant region, where ancient cities blend with modern life, is rich in charm and culture. It’s also one of the top areas where we’ve supported countless travelers with mobility needs on safe and comfortable journeys.
Kyoto, Osaka, and Kobe are just as friendly to travelers with limited mobility.

If Tokyo is the perfect starting point for accessible travel—welcoming visitors with its convenient transportation and modern infrastructure—then Kansai represents the next-level journey, offering deeper cultural immersion, warmth, and thoughtful design.
Here, you’ll find not only stress-free mobility, but also the chance to experience the serenity and richness of thousand-year-old cities.

Whether you’re planning your very first accessible trip or have already explored Tokyo and are ready to dive into another side of Japanese culture, Kyoto, Osaka, and Kobe are ideal destinations to consider.
Tokyo gives you speed and efficiency; Kansai gives you warmth and depth.
TTtrips’ welfare vehicle service is your best companion to connect these worlds.
For your next journey, let us join you—to go even further with the freedom and emotion that only travel can bring.

What Is a Welfare Vehicle?
Why Kyoto, Osaka, and Kobe Are Perfect for Accessible Travel
Discount Guide: Accessibility Passes & Perks in Japan
Complete Guide to Accessible-Friendly Attractions & Cultural Activities in Kansai
Recommended Accessible Hotels in Kansai
Recommended Accessible Restaurants in Kansai
Recommended Accessible Vegetarian Restaurants in Kansai
Accessibility Services & Information Centers in Kansai
Private Charter Route Recommendations in Kansai
​Frequently Asked Questions About Accessible Charter Travel
2025 TTtrips Exclusive Early Bird Discount​
Contact Us (1-on-1 Dedicated Travel Consultant)
Related Reading：Tokyo Edition-Accessible Travel Journey 
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(神戶-圖片來源：Pexels)

What Is a Welfare Vehicle?
In Japan, welfare vehicles are known as "Welcab" (ウェルキャブ)—a term combining “Welfare” and “Cabin.” These vehicles are specially designed for people with limited mobility and are equipped with features such as lift systems or electric ramps to assist wheelchair users in boarding and disembarking with ease.
In regions like Kyoto, Osaka, and Kobe—where the terrain is often uneven and shrines are commonly accessed via stairs—welfare vehicles enable travelers to arrive directly at site entrances, eliminating the fatigue of transfers and long walks.

From Fushimi Inari Taisha and Byōdō-in Temple in Kyoto, to Sumiyoshi Taisha in Osaka and Ikuta Shrine in Kobe, many popular attractions are spread across wide areas. However, when paired with a welfare vehicle, you can avoid complex transfers and travel comfortably and directly to your destination.
Using a welfare vehicle with a lift system is the ideal choice—it not only provides convenient pick-up and drop-off service, but also greatly enhances mobility, allowing every traveler to fully experience the history and hospitality of the Kansai region at their own pace.

Why Kyoto, Osaka, and Kobe Are Ideal for Accessible Travel
This region offers not only a rich cultural heritage but also continually evolving infrastructure and transport systems.
From Kyoto’s historic shrines and temples, to Kobe’s scenic harbor, and Osaka’s vibrant urban districts, Kansai has developed genuinely accessible travel routes for people with limited mobility—making it easy to explore and comfortable to navigate.

• Well-Equipped Accessibility Facilities:
  Many tourist attractions feature ramps, elevators, accessible restrooms, and even services such as audio guides and wheelchair rentals, allowing visitors to explore with ease.

• Friendly Public Transportation:
  Railways such as JR Kansai Main Line, Hankyu Railway, and Keihan Electric Railway offer barrier-free station designs. Ground staff are well-trained and willing to proactively assist travelers.

• Warm Hospitality and Cultural Atmosphere:
  The Kansai region is known for its friendliness and hospitality. Locals—including hotel staff, taxi drivers, and shop owners—are often patient and ready to help travelers with limited mobility, offering a sense of security throughout the journey.

• Clusters of Attractions and Dining Options in Certain Areas:
  Although attractions across Kyoto, Osaka, and Kobe are generally spread out, each city features several compact areas perfect for slow travel.
  For example:

  • Higashiyama and Arashiyama in Kyoto

  • Tennoji and Shinsaibashi in Osaka

  • Sannomiya and the Kitano Ijinkan district in Kobe
    These neighborhoods are dense with landmarks and shops, making them ideal for wheelchair users planning half-day or full-day trips with short travel distances and flexible stops.

Did You Know?
In Japan, many tourist attractions, parks, and even amusement facilities offer free or half-price admission for travelers who hold a disability certificate.
And the benefit doesn’t just apply to the certificate holder—one accompanying person can also enjoy the same discount!
Even public transportation like subways and buses offer fare reductions. How thoughtful is that?

Here’s a quick reminder:
When purchasing tickets or entering facilities, be sure to present your disability certificate (either the original or, in some cases, an accepted English translation).
That way, you’ll be able to enjoy all the discounts without any trouble!
For more information about discount-eligible spots or transportation benefits, check the official website here: https://reurl.cc/gRb71p

(圖表來源：樂吃購！日本)

【Recommended Destinations｜Accessible Landmarks of History and Nature】

Kyoto Area

• Fushimi Inari Taisha
  Address: 68 Fukakusa Yabunouchi-chō, Fushimi Ward, Kyoto City
  Highlights: The entrance and lower worship areas feature flat pathways and accessible restrooms.
  Although the path beyond the hillside includes stairs, the lower area is very wheelchair-friendly—perfect for experiencing the cultural atmosphere of the iconic Senbon Torii (Thousand Torii Gates).

• Arashiyama – Togetsukyo Bridge & Tenryu-ji Temple
  Address: Ukyo Ward, Kyoto City
  Highlights: The entire Arashiyama area is designed to be wheelchair-friendly.
  The walkway across Togetsukyo Bridge is flat and scenic. Tenryu-ji offers wheelchair rentals and accessible restrooms, making it a year-round destination for cherry blossoms and autumn foliage.

Uji Area

• Byōdō-in Temple (Phoenix Hall)
  Address: 116 Uji Renge, Uji City, Kyoto Prefecture
  Highlights: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with ramps and elevators for indoor access.
  The nearby tea shop streets have flat paths and on-site staff available to assist, allowing wheelchair users to move around safely and comfortably.

Osaka Area

• Sumiyoshi Taisha
  Address: 2-9-89 Sumiyoshi, Sumiyoshi Ward, Osaka City
  Highlights: One of Osaka’s oldest shrines. The main worship path is flat, with accessible toilets and simple ramps, making it suitable for peaceful short visits and cultural immersion.

Kobe Area

• Ikuta Shrine
  Address: 1-2-1 Shimoyamatedōri, Chūō Ward, Kobe City
  Highlights: A popular shrine in the heart of Kobe, situated on flat terrain.
  Wheelchair paths and accessible facilities are provided. Located near department stores and food streets, the area is convenient and comfortable.

• Nunobiki Herb Garden (Accessible via Ropeway)
  Address: 1-4-3 Kitano-chō, Chūō Ward, Kobe City
  Highlights: Reachable by ropeway to the mountaintop. The garden offers ramps, escalators, and accessible restrooms—ideal for flower viewing, photography, and panoramic views of Kobe Harbor.
  A perfect choice for a relaxing half-day outing.

【Cultural Experiences｜Not Just Watching—But Truly Participating】

【Seasonal Flower Viewing｜Slow-Paced Scenic Walks in Kansai】
Spring｜Plum and Cherry Blossom Viewing

• Osaka Castle Park: Accessible paths and observation areas available.
• Kyoto Gyoen National Garden: Wheelchair accessible with spacious grounds.

Autumn｜Fall Foliage Recommendations

• Sorakuen Garden (Kobe): Features ramps and scenic pathways; its traditional garden design is perfect for leisurely strolls.
• Tenryu-ji Temple Garden (Arashiyama): Flat garden paths with spectacular views of autumn leaves.

【Shopping & Dining｜Enjoy the Stroll Without Missing Out】

Osaka｜Shinsaibashi Shopping Street & Daimaru Department Store

• Daimaru Shinsaibashi Store: Equipped with elevators, accessible restrooms, and rest areas for wheelchair users.
• ​Shinsaibashi Shopping Street: Flat main walkway suitable for wheelchair access. Some stores offer written communication and low-counter service.

Kyoto｜Isetan Department Store

• JR Kyoto Isetan: Located above Kyoto Station, featuring elevators and accessible restrooms—convenient for wheelchair users.

Kobe｜Sannomiya Area & Kobe Hankyu Department Store

• Kobe Hankyu: Equipped with elevators, accessible restrooms, and rest areas—wheelchair friendly.
• Sannomiya Area: Main streets are flat and suitable for wheelchair users. Some shops offer written communication support and low counters for ordering.

【Festivals & Performing Arts｜Peaceful Yet Fully Included】

• Summer Night Festivals & Lantern Walks
• Kifune Shrine Lantern Festival (Kyoto): Set on gentle terrain.
• Sumiyoshi Festival (Osaka): Some routes feature wheelchair viewing areas.
• Kobe Luminarie: Event routes are mostly flat urban streets.
• Traditional Performing Arts
• Kyoto Kanze Noh Theater, Osaka Shochikuza, Kobe Bunka Hall:

All venues provide accessible seating, elevators, and reservation assistance.
Online or phone reservations are recommended to ensure suitable viewing spots and support services.

(京都貴船神社夏夜燈籠-圖片來源：心已飛去旅遊)

Recommended Hotels in Kyoto：

• Hotel New Hankyu Kyoto

Located right next to Kyoto Station, this hotel offers several accessible room types with barrier-free bathrooms and emergency call buttons.
The lobby, elevators, and restaurants are all designed on a flat level, allowing easy wheelchair access throughout the property.

• THE THOUSAND KYOTO

This modern and detail-oriented hotel features accessible rooms with 180-degree turning space, height-adjustable sinks, and safety handrails.
The hotel also provides thoughtful guest welcome services and guidance support for visually impaired travelers.

• MIMARU Kyoto Station Apartment Hotel

Ideal for families or long-stay guests, selected rooms include low-counter kitchens and wide hallways.
The property offers accessible routes and barrier-free bathrooms.
Front desk staff are knowledgeable about assistive equipment and support services.

Recommended Hotels in Osaka

• Swissôtel Nankai Osaka

Located directly above Namba Station, this hotel offers superb accessibility.
It features accessible room types with spacious layouts, bathrooms equipped with grab bars and sliding doors.
The front desk and restaurants are designed with flat, barrier-free pathways.

• Cross Hotel Osaka (Shinsaibashi)

A stylish and modern hotel offering 1–2 accessible rooms.
It provides support for renting mobility aids.
Situated right next to Dotonbori, it's within walking distance of many popular food and entertainment spots.

• Sotetsu FRESA INN Osaka Shinsaibashi

Affordable, yet clean and comfortable, this hotel features wheelchair-friendly entrances and low-counter reception desks.
Some rooms are suitable for small mobility aids. Conveniently located near Shinsaibashi and the subway station.

Recommended Hotels in Kobe

• Hotel Okura Kobe

A luxury hotel offering well-equipped accessible facilities.
Guest rooms are spacious and include sliding doors, low sinks, and bathtub grab bars.
A 24-hour assistance service is available for guests who need support.

• Kobe Sannomiya Tokyu REI Hotel

Conveniently located near Sannomiya Station, this hotel features simple yet functional accessible rooms.
Elevators and public areas are barrier-free, making it a high-value option for accessibility-conscious travelers.

• Brenza Hotel Kobe

Modern and affordable, with certain floors featuring wide hallways and accessible room types.
Ideal for light travelers or short stays.
The hotel is quietly located yet central—within walking distance of Kobe’s main shopping areas.

• Three-Day, Two-Night Accessible Private Car Tours

【Cultural Immersion Route】Kyoto → Kobe → Osaka

Day 1｜Kyoto Classic Cultural Tour:
Kiyomizu-dera (slope-access entrance) → Yasaka Shrine → Lunch @ Gion → Heian Shrine → Leisure stroll along the Kamo River

Day 2｜Kobe Harbor Vibes:
Kitano Ijinkan (exterior viewing) → Lunch @ Sannomiya → Kobe Port Tower & Kobe Maritime Museum → Harborland barrier-free promenade

Day 3｜Osaka Castle & Shopping:
Osaka Castle Park → Lunch @ Shinsaibashi → Dotonbori photo stop → Tsutenkaku or Tennoji Zoo
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【Shopping & Wellness Route】Osaka → Kobe → Kyoto

Day 1｜Osaka Stylish Stroll:
Shinsaibashi shopping → Lunch @ Namba → Tsutenkaku → Umeda Sky Building Observatory (elevator accessible)

Day 2｜Kobe Waterfront Leisure:
Sannomiya Shopping Street → Lunch → Kobe Port Tower & waterfront promenade → Kitano Ijinkan street photography (weather permitting)

Day 3｜Kyoto Cultural Wrap-Up:
The National Museum of Modern Art, Kyoto → Lunch @ Nanzenji area → Philosopher’s Path (partially flat segments accessible) → Ginkaku-ji outer garden viewing
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【Family-Friendly Route】Kobe → Osaka → Kyoto

Day 1｜Kobe Family Fun:
Kobe Animal Kingdom → Lunch → Harborland Ferris Wheel → Anpanman Children’s Museum (indoor flat layout)

Day 2｜Osaka Family Adventure:
LEGOLAND Discovery Center Osaka → Lunch @ Tempozan → Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan → Return to hotel

Day 3｜Kyoto Nature & Art:
Kyoto Aquarium → Lunch → Kyoto Railway Museum (fully wheelchair accessible) → Scenic break at Umekoji Park

(梅田藍天大樓空中庭園觀景台-圖片來源：奧丁丁體驗)

• Five-Day, Four-Night Accessible Private Car Tour
   

Day 1｜Kyoto Traditional Highlights
Fushimi Inari Taisha (slope-access friendly) → Lunch @ Inari area → Byōdō-in Temple & Uji Matcha Shopping Street → Check-in at hotel near the Kamo River

Day 2｜Kyoto Nature and Arts Extension
Arashiyama Togetsukyo Bridge → Tenryu-ji Temple Garden (wheelchair accessible) → Lunch @ Sagano-yu → Kyoto Gyoen National Garden (flat terrain) → Hosomi Museum or Kyoto National Museum (indoor, with elevators and assistive services)

Day 3｜Kobe Harbor & Historical Architecture
Private car transfer to Kobe → Kitano Ijinkan District (exterior viewing + gentle slopes) → Lunch @ Sannomiya → Kobe Port Tower & Kobe Maritime Museum → Harborland (long flat promenade, stroller and wheelchair accessible)

Day 4｜Osaka Urban Culture Mix
Osaka Castle Park (elevators and ramps available) → Lunch @ Shinsaibashi → Sightseeing in the Dotonbori shopping district → Tsutenkaku or Tennoji Zoo (barrier-free pathways available) → Hotel check-in around Umeda area

Day 5｜Cultural Farewell & Return
Osaka Museum of Housing and Living (wheelchair rentals and guided tours available) → Lunch @ Nakanoshima or Umeda Underground Mall → Transfer to the airport or Shin-Osaka Station for departure

Note:
If travelers have limited physical stamina, the afternoon of Day 2 can be replaced with hotel rest or a single indoor activity.
All destinations are accessible via welfare vehicles, minimizing stairs and long transfer routes throughout the trip.

(嵐山渡月橋-圖片來源：嵯峨野觀光鐵道)