TMG to Host Barrier-Free Tour on Miyakejima Island in Sept.

The Tokyo Metropolitan Government will organize a barrier-free tour on Miyakejima island from September 15 to 17 to provide operational know-how for nature-experiencing tourism programs designed for people with disabilities and others.

This tour, to be conducted for the second time, is part of an initiative to promote accessible tourism, which aims to ensure that everyone—regardless of age or disability—can safely enjoy Tokyo’s natural environment.

Participants will include travel agencies, experiential tourism providers, and tourism associations based in Tokyo (approximately 20 people in total), as well as people with disabilities, such as wheelchair users (approximately 3 people). Participation is free of charge, including travel expenses.

One of the main activities is a workshop to be held at the island’s community center. An expert in barrier-free tours will be invited to serve as an instructor, explaining the appeal of nature-based tourism and advising on such tours in coastal and mountainous areas. Participants will also have an opportunity to try out outdoor wheelchairs and mobility aids firsthand.

Another key component is a support experience in sea kayaking on the beach and a nature walk around a pond. Participants will practice providing guidance, mobility assistance, and support for nature walks in coastal and mountainous areas to learn how to help people with disabilities fully enjoy nature. The event will also include a feedback session and an exchange of opinions among participants.

In case of bad weather, the event will be postponed to September 28–30.