Shinkansen Accessibility Tips

Tested accessibility advice on riding the Shinkansen

Accessible seats are found in car 11 if you're traveling on the line that runs from Tokyo to Kyoto.

The accessible seat tickets can't be booked online and are hard to book in person; it is best to call to arrange.

The train company may assign you a guide to accompany you on your journey, depending on the severity of your condition.

In Tokyo, enter the station via the Yaesu side on the north. The kombini stores on the platform sometimes have ramps, while others are only kiosk and not a space one enters.

In Kyoto, enter and exit the station on the Hachijo exit (central). Ensure you use the restroom before you enter the turnstile, because the restroom in the Shinkansen area is quite far from the elevator.

Additionally, ensure you buy any food before you go up to the platform. The kombini stores on the platform do no always have a ramp, however in Kyoto the Komnini near car 7, does. Although the store is a bit small.

Many of the Shinkansen platforms are slanted. They may peak in the center and and a slight downhill slant toward the train car. There are small signs, but they may go unnoticed. Please be careful!

The TokudAw team compiled our best advice for travelers utilizing a wheelchair and taking the Shinkansen. Click the video to view our advice video from our YouTube channel.

Tips on where to buy food in Kyoto Station for travelers with Dietary restrictions from our Facebook Page.

The TokudAw team visited Kyoto Station and mapped out the best places to get food for travelers with dietary restrictions before catching a Shinkansen train. Our recommendations include tips are focused on supporting vegans, vegetarians, gluten free and halal diets, though other diets may find the advice useful! Did you know there’s a grocery store close to one of the Shinkansen entrances that makes eating on a restricted diet much easier! Click the Facebook post to view the post on Facebook.

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