Tips for using a wheelchair at Tokyo Disneyland

Going to Tokyo Disney Resort is always tons of fun, but will it be enjoyable if you will need a wheelchair? What is it like to go there and rent a wheelchair so that you can make the most out of your magical day at Disney?

Hello everyone! My name is Nathalie April and in 2022 I went to Tokyo Disneyland with a wheelchair 3 different times due to an ankle injury I had in both May and November.

I know it sounds crazy to go so many times in a wheelchair, and you’re probably wondering why I didn’t just stay home. I decided to try renting a wheelchair to go because 1) It was my daughter’s birthday, 2) I was hosting friends, 3) I photographed an engagement photoshoot and just wanted to rest on a wheelchair after the shoot was over, and 4) BECAUSE IT’S DISNEYLAND!

Anyway, since I’ve had experience going to Disneyland 3x with a wheelchair (as well as gone with a friend to Disney Sea 1x) in 2022, I thought I would share some info and tips!

So let’s get started!

TIP #1: If I am using a wheelchair, should I go to Disneyland or Disney Sea?

Go to Tokyo Disneyland.

Why?

Disney Sea has numerous inclines. Anyone who has been there can attest to this- you’re always walking up and down hilly paths.

Recently, in 2022, I went to Disney Sea with a friend who broke her toe. Our other friend pushed her wheelchair, and I am telling you from personal experience…it wasn’t easy. That said, we were still very glad she was able to come celebrate with us!!

Tokyo Disneyland is much more flat all around. Disney Sea is still doable and could potentially be fun, but please know in advance that it will be much MUCH easier to get around in a wheelchair at Disneyland.

TIP #2: How can I get dropped off at Tokyo Disneyland?

If you are getting dropped off at the park, you can be dropped off at the very front of the park if you go to the parking attendant and explain to them you are injured. They will give you a pass to drive the car inside to the front so you don’t have to walk as far to the ticket gate! This is a very valuable tip because you do not waste any time parking far or getting dropped at another further location!

*If someone is dropping you off at Tokyo Disneyland by vehicle, you can request to get dropped off at the very front. (Image credit: Nathalie April Photography)*

TIP #3: Which wheelchair should I rent?

When you arrive at Disneyland, the wheelchair rental is to the right.

When you arrive at Disney Sea the wheelchair rental is to the left.

The line can be long right when the park opens, but after the morning rush, it can be easy and quick to rent a wheelchair.

So which wheelchair to rent?

Wheelchair and Stroller Rental pricing at Tokyo Disneyland, as of December 2022. Information on the various types of wheelchairs. (Image credit: Nathalie April Photography)

I have rented both the motorized wheelchair and the standard wheelchair (where you push the wheels yourself or someone else pushes you). Here are my thoughts and opinions:

STANDARD WHEELCHAIR vs MOTORIZED WHEELCHAIR

You can’t use motorized wheelchairs in the rain
The motorized wheelchair is much MUCH slower; standard can move much faster
Standard can be tiring for both you and your family/friend who is pushing you
Standard is cheaper (500 yen vs 2000 yen)
Motorized wheelchair has more storage area (basket in front)
Motorized wheelchair is more comfortable (seat is more cushioned)

If you still can’t decide, do this:

Ask the people in your group if they prefer that you move fast but they have to push you (Standard wheelchair), or if they prefer to not have to push you but you move really really slow (motorized wheelchair).

For more info on Wheelchair Rentals at Tokyo Disneyland: https://www.tokyodisneyresort.jp/en/tdl/guide/babycar.html

TIP #4: What is it like experiencing the attractions with a wheelchair?

Honestly, it depends on each attraction and it also depends on what your abilities are. For those that can still walk a bit, sometimes it is easier to just park the wheelchair to the side and walk/use crutches in the normal line. Sometimes, however, the line is so long and I wouldn’t want to stand on my crutches too long. In that case, sometimes the Cast Member working at the attraction will give me a time to come back in line to go on the attraction.

Ultimately, the wheelchair didn’t really prevent me from doing any of the attractions at Tokyo Disneyland. I watched parades, ate at the restaurants, and rode all the rides I wanted to. Sometimes I felt bad for slowing down my friends but despite a bit of hassle, I still had a lot of fun!

For more info on experiencing the attractions with a wheelchair at Tokyo Disneyland:

https://www.tokyodisneyresort.jp/en/tdr/bfree/wchair.html