October 19, 2011 : Fieldwork : Accessibility Check in Tokyo Metropolitan City
Training Report 2011 - Leadership Development Course
Today was an unforgettable day for the participants.
Three lecturers, the board member of DPI Japan, the chairperson of the Board of NPO Independent Living Support Network Tokyo and Deputy Manager, Division for Promoting Accessible Transportation of ECOMO Foundation were invited.
The participants were divided into two groups to carry out “accessibility check” of public transportation in Tokyo Metropolitan City.
Tokyo Tower, one of the most famous places in Japan, was set as the destination. Each group took a unique route, and met up at Tokyo Tower.
On their way to the destination, the participants observed various facilities and assistive devices provided not only for persons with disabilities but also for elderly people, children and parents with a baby carriage.
They took elevators and checked Braille blocks tiled on the platform and the street as well as automatic platform gates which prevent people from falling off the platform.
In particular, using staircase-lifts called “Escal” was a memorable experience. It gave the participants a good example of how to overcome barriers in existing facilities. There also was service available to wheelchair users. Staff of underground stations prepared a portable ramp to assist the participants using wheelchairs to get on and off a train.
The participants enjoyed the little trip a lot, and understood the meaning of “going to the place not only where it is access, but the place wherever we want to go” by actually experiencing it.
After returning to JICA Tokyo, a staff member of ECOMO foundation (Mission of the organization is to promote accessible public transport and to improve transport environmental issues) gave a lecture on history and the current situation of barrier free laws and regulations in Japan.
Two lecturers who were electric wheelchair users concluded the session with strong word, “The important things are voice and movement of persons with disabilities, and never give up spirit!”
