Accessible Transportation in Tokyo

Practical guides for getting around Tokyo with a wheelchair, mobility aid, or other accessibility needs. Airport transfers, Metro, trains, buses, taxis, and scooter rules.

## Getting Around Tokyo Tokyo's public transport system is one of the most accessible in Asia. Japan's Barrier-Free Law (Barrier-Free New Law, 2006, updated 2018) requires all public transport stations serving 3,000 or more daily passengers to have elevators, accessible toilets, and tactile paving. As of 2024, over 95% of Tokyo Metro stations and nearly all JR East stations in Tokyo have at least one barrier-free route from street to platform. Tokyo Metro operates 9 subway lines with 180 stations. Toei Subway operates 4 additional lines with 106 stations. JR East runs the Yamanote Line, Chuo Line, and other commuter lines throughout the city. All systems have staff trained to assist wheelchair users with portable ramps for platform-to-train boarding.

Key Takeaway

Tokyo's rail network is highly accessible, but station layouts are complex. Most stations have elevators, but finding the barrier-free route requires planning. Download the Tokyo Metro app or use the Ecomo Rakuraku Odekake Net (accessible route planner) before your trip. Station staff will deploy portable ramps for wheelchair boarding at every station if you ask.

## Transportation Guides

Airport Accessibility

Narita (NRT) and Haneda (HND) airports. Assistance booking, accessible routes, Narita Express, Keikyu Line, and limousine buses.

  • Narita Terminal 1, 2 & 3
  • Haneda Terminal 1, 2 & 3
  • Assistance Service
  • Accessible Transfers

Metro & Subway

Tokyo Metro (9 lines) and Toei Subway (4 lines). Elevator locations, portable ramp assistance, wheelchair spaces, and navigation tips.

  • 13 Subway Lines
  • 95%+ Barrier-Free
  • Staff Ramp Assist
  • Accessible Route App

Buses

Toei city buses (100% low-floor with ramps) and highway bus accessibility for day trips and airport connections.

  • 100% Low-Floor Buses
  • Ramp Deployment
  • Priority Seating
  • Highway Buses

Taxis & Transfers

JPN Taxi (universal design with built-in ramp), wheelchair-accessible taxi booking, ride-hailing apps, and pricing.

  • JPN Taxi (Ramp)
  • GO App Booking
  • Airport Transfers
  • Pricing Info

Trains

JR East commuter lines, Yamanote Line, and Shinkansen bullet trains. Wheelchair spaces, station assistance, and Japan Rail Pass.

  • Yamanote Line
  • Shinkansen
  • JR Pass
  • Station Assistance

Mobility Scooters

Scooter rules in Japan, sidewalk regulations, train restrictions, rental companies, and models suited for Tokyo streets.

  • Japanese Regulations
  • Rental Services
  • Transit Rules
  • Charging Points
## Quick Comparison
Transport Wheelchair Accessible Best For Advance Booking
Tokyo Metro 95%+ stations Central Tokyo travel No
Toei Subway Most stations Central and east Tokyo No
JR Yamanote All stations Major hubs loop No
Toei Buses Yes, all routes Short-distance travel No
JPN Taxi Yes, built-in ramp Door-to-door travel Recommended
Shinkansen Yes, designated spaces Intercity travel Recommended

Planning Tip

Download the Tokyo Metro app and the Toei Subway app (both free, available in English) before your trip. For comprehensive accessible route planning, use the Ecomo Rakuraku Odekake Net website, which shows barrier-free routes including elevator locations. Station staff at every station will deploy portable ramps for wheelchair boarding. Simply approach the staff window or press the intercom button on the platform.