I’m going to be in Japan with my wife the first two weeks in May, and we really want to visit Hokkaido. This is our 3rd trip to Japan, but the first time we’re planning to head north. She has a disability that makes walking difficult, so we’ll be using a wheelchair most of the day. I am hoping to find beautiful spots in Hokkaido that are easily accessible via public transport or taxi and don’t require too much hiking. I heard that renting a car is generally not recommended in Japan, however I am a good driver with lots of experience driving abroad so I’m open to it (though I think I would prefer to rely on public transport, or hire a driver / taxi). If walking is required, paved roads would be ideal. Having accessible bathrooms nearby is an important consideration as well.
Here are the places we’re interested in checking out — I would appreciate any thoughts/advice from locals or people who have visited regarding their accessibility, and whether or not it makes sense to visit these in May:
- Biei (Aoiike pond, patchwork farmlands, Shirahige Falls)
- Furano
- Takikawa Nanohana fields
- Shikotsu-Tōya National Park
- Daisetsuzan National Park
- Shiretoko National Park
- Noboribetsu
- Matsumae
- Takinoue
I’m sure there are other spots not on this list that are worth learning about as well. We probably won’t have time to visit everything, so opinions on the best spots (in terms of views/experience, whether or not May is the best time to visit, and of course wheelchair accessibility) are very welcome. We’ve looked into hiring a private tour guide as well, and may go with that option. Would be nice to get a few opinions before we book something!
Thank you!
by travelingclarinetist