Narita Airport is an international airport that is committed to developing facilities based on universal design principles and building a meticulous support system so that everyone can enjoy air travel comfortably. Various considerations are in place to ensure that wheelchair users, people with disabilities, the elderly, and their families can spend their time there with peace of mind from departure to arrival. This guide thoroughly explains the barrier-free facilities and services at Narita Airport and provides comprehensive information to help you plan your trip, from how to spend time at the airport to access methods and nearby accommodations.Overview of accessibility facilities at Narita AirportNarita Airport is equipped with various barrier-free facilities to ensure that all users, including those with disabilities, the elderly, and those traveling with small children, can have a comfortable experience. In addition to elevators and ramps that facilitate movement within each terminal building, the airport has established a system to support users from both a hardware and software perspective, including wheelchair-accessible restrooms and information counters where visitors can seek assistance. Here, we will take a closer look at the specific facilities available within the airport.Location and facilities of multi-purpose toilets (toilets accessible to all).At Narita Airport, multi-functional restrooms called "accessible restrooms" are installed on every floor of each terminal, making them easily accessible for wheelchair users, ostomates, and those traveling with small children. These restrooms typically include handrails, emergency call buttons, ostomate-friendly facilities, baby changing tables, and multi-purpose seats (universal seats) that can be used for changing clothes. You can check the locations of these restrooms on the signs within the terminal, or ask at the information counter.Elevator and escalator installation statusMoving between floors within the airport is primarily done by using elevators. Elevators are installed along the main routes in each terminal, and are designed to allow people in wheelchairs, with strollers, or carrying large luggage to move between floors safely and easily. The elevator control panels are installed at a low position and have Braille markings, showing consideration for the ease of use of many people. Escalators are also available in various locations, but for safety reasons, the use of elevators is recommended for wheelchair users.How to use and where to use rental wheelchairs and electric scooters.Free wheelchairs are available for loan to those who need assistance moving around the airport. Anyone can easily borrow one by requesting it at the information counter in each terminal building. Advance reservations are generally not required, and you can complete the procedure on the day. In addition, at Terminals 1 and 2, electric carts circulate in the area after immigration, which can be used by those who have difficulty walking to get closer to their boarding gates. If you see one, you can speak to the driver or ask at the information counter.Information counter and writing/communication boardIf you get lost in the airport, need flight information, or are unsure about the location of facilities, it's convenient to visit the information counter in each terminal. Specialized staff are always on hand to answer your questions courteously. For those with hearing impairments or difficulty communicating verbally, writing aids and communication boards that allow you to point to illustrations and words are also available. If you have any problems, don't hesitate to ask the staff at the counter for assistance.How to Utilize Barrier-Free Services at Narita Airport (by Purpose)Airports are used for a wide range of purposes, including departure, arrival, transfers, dining, and shopping. Since the support needed differs for each situation, it's important to know what services are available and how to utilize them to ensure a smooth experience. Here, we'll introduce specific ways to maximize the use of Narita Airport's barrier-free services, categorized by purpose. Understanding the process in advance will help reduce anxiety on the day of your visit.Departure support: From check-in to boardingSupport for departures by plane is primarily provided by the airline you are using. Upon arrival at the airport, first head to the airline's check-in counter. If you use a wheelchair or require assistance, informing the airline when booking your ticket will make the process on the day of departure much smoother. After check-in, it is common for airline staff to escort you through security and immigration to the boarding gate, pushing your wheelchair. You will also receive meticulous support during boarding, such as being given priority boarding.Arrival support: From disembarking to the arrival lobby.Upon arrival at Narita Airport from your destination, you will also receive support from the airline. After the plane lands and other passengers disembark, staff will come to meet you on board. From there, you will be transferred to a wheelchair or other accessible vehicle, and the staff will accompany you through immigration, baggage claim, and customs, assisting you with the necessary procedures. They will also assist with baggage claim, so even those who have difficulty carrying heavy luggage can rest assured. Finally, they will responsibly guide you until you meet your family or transfer agent waiting in the arrival lobby.Support during transfersComprehensive support is available at Narita Airport for transfers between domestic and international flights, or vice versa. Especially if you need to transfer between terminals or have a short layover, requesting support in advance is essential. When booking your flight, be sure to inform them of your layover and request support. A dedicated staff member will accompany you from the moment you disembark your arrival flight to your boarding gate for your next departure. Inter-terminal shuttle buses are also available, featuring barrier-free vehicles with wheelchair spaces.Accessibility information for enjoying dining and shoppingNarita Airport has numerous restaurants, cafes, duty-free shops, and other stores, allowing you to enjoy your time before your flight. Many of these establishments are designed with accessibility in mind, featuring wide aisles and no steps at entrances, making them easily accessible for wheelchair users. Most restaurants also have tables that can be used by wheelchair users. For detailed information on which establishments are accessible, it's best to ask at the information counter or check the airport floor map.Support system at Narita Airport by type of disabilityThe support needed varies depending on one's physical condition and the nature of their disability. Narita Airport offers specialized facilities and services tailored to different types of disabilities to meet diverse needs. We will introduce in detail the support systems in place to ensure that everyone, from wheelchair users to those with visual or hearing impairments, or those with internal disabilities that are not outwardly visible, can use the airport with peace of mind.Support for wheelchair usersNarita Airport offers an accessible environment for wheelchair users. The airport features ramps and elevators, ensuring smooth movement without steps, and wide corridors. Accessible restrooms are located throughout the airport and are spacious enough for wheelchairs. Free wheelchair rentals are available for use within the airport, and airlines can provide comprehensive assistance services from check-in to boarding. Access to the airport is also convenient, with wheelchair-accessible trains and buses, as well as designated parking spaces for people with disabilities.Support for people with visual impairments (braille blocks, audio guidance)To ensure the safe movement of visually impaired individuals, tactile paving is installed in major corridors within the terminal. Braille signage is provided in important locations such as restroom entrances and elevator control panels. Additionally, some elevators and restrooms have voice guidance systems that inform passengers of their current location and operating instructions. If you feel uneasy about traveling alone, you can speak to a staff member at the information counter, and an escort service may be available to assist you to your destination.Support for people with hearing impairments (flight information display, written communication)For people with hearing impairments, not being able to hear audio announcements can be a major source of anxiety. Therefore, at Narita Airport, important information such as flight departure and arrival times and boarding gate changes can be visually confirmed on flight information displays located throughout the terminal. In the event of an emergency, information can also be conveyed through text. Furthermore, at information counters and airline counters, staff can use writing aids and communication boards to facilitate smooth communication.Support for people with internal disabilities, intellectual disabilities, and mental disabilitiesEfforts are being made to accommodate individuals with disabilities that are not outwardly visible, such as internal disabilities, intellectual disabilities, and mental illnesses. Staff members make an effort to approach individuals wearing a Help Mark and ask if they need any assistance. There are also relatively quiet and calming waiting areas for those who are uncomfortable in crowds or prone to panic attacks. If you require special accommodations, contacting the airline or airport consultation desk in advance and explaining your situation will allow you to use the airport with greater peace of mind.For more detailed information on barrier-free services offered by different airlines, please see "Traveling to Japan in a Wheelchair! A Complete Guide to Airline-Specific Barrier-Free Services."A thorough comparison of barrier-free access methods to Narita Airport.Getting from your home or accommodation to Narita Airport is the first step in your trip. There are various ways to get there, from public transport to cars, but each has its own characteristics from a barrier-free perspective. Here, we provide information to help you choose the method that best suits your situation by comparing the three main access methods—train, bus, and car—in terms of wheelchair accessibility and necessary procedures.Access by train (Narita Express, Keisei Skyliner)The main rail access routes from central Tokyo to Narita Airport are JR East's "Narita Express" and Keisei Electric Railway's "Keisei Skyliner." These express trains are equipped with wheelchair spaces and large, wheelchair-accessible restrooms, ensuring a comfortable journey. The stations within the airport (Narita Airport Station and Airport Terminal 2 Station) are directly connected to the terminal buildings, and elevators allow for step-free movement. Station staff will assist with setting up ramps and other arrangements when boarding and alighting, so contacting the railway company you plan to use in advance will make boarding and alighting on the day of travel much smoother.Access by limousine bus and regular busLimousine buses connecting major hotels and terminal stations in Tokyo with Narita Airport are a convenient mode of transportation if you have a lot of luggage. An increasing number of these buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts, making them barrier-free. If you wish to board in a wheelchair, it is recommended to reserve or inquire with the bus company in advance, as a boarding space will need to be secured. Regular route buses are also becoming more accessible, with the introduction of low-floor non-step buses.Access by car and parking lot (parking spaces for people with disabilities)If you prefer to travel at your own pace or if you are accompanied by a caregiver, accessing the airport by car is convenient. Narita Airport has large parking lots directly connected to each terminal, and ample parking spaces for people with disabilities are conveniently located near the entrances of the terminal buildings. In addition, there is a system that offers discounts on parking fees for those with a disability certificate. You will need to present your certificate at the payment machine at the exit, so it is a good idea to check the airport's website in advance for details.Four Barrier-Free Hotels Near Narita AirportHotels near the airport are extremely convenient for overnight stays before early morning flights or for resting after late-night arrivals. Choosing a hotel with barrier-free rooms is especially beneficial for recovering from travel fatigue. Here, we introduce four representative hotels near Narita Airport that are barrier-free. Compare the facilities and services of each hotel to help you choose the accommodation that best suits your needs.Hotel Nikko NaritaHotel Nikko Narita offers a free shuttle bus service to and from the airport, with some buses equipped with lifts. The hotel also has barrier-free rooms (universal rooms) designed for the comfort of wheelchair users. These rooms feature safety and comfort considerations, such as eliminating steps at the entrance and bathroom, and installing handrails. For specific room amenities, availability, and reservations, we recommend consulting a specialist barrier-free travel agency that can offer suggestions tailored to your individual needs.Narita Tobu Hotel AirportNarita Tobu Hotel Airport is another hotel with convenient access to the airport. It also offers barrier-free rooms, with wider corridors and spaces to facilitate wheelchair access. Bathrooms are equipped with handrails and shower chairs, demonstrating a commitment to accommodating guests' needs. Many of the hotel's restaurants are also designed to be wheelchair accessible. For detailed information on barrier-free facilities, it's more reliable and less troublesome to contact a travel agency with specialized knowledge rather than inquiring directly with the hotel.Hilton NaritaHilton Narita, a global hotel chain, is known for its high-quality service and excellent facilities. Accessible rooms are available for guests using wheelchairs. These rooms are designed to meet international standards for accessibility, and typically include features such as bed heights that facilitate easy transfers and bathrooms that are spacious enough for wheelchairs to turn around in. For reservations of accessible rooms or to learn more about the facilities, please consult with a specialist like Flattravel, who can arrange a room that meets your needs.ANA Crowne Plaza Hotel NaritaANA Crowne Plaza Hotel Narita is another hotel that prioritizes accessibility. Accessible rooms are furnished with consideration for wheelchair users, and bathrooms are equipped with handrails and height-adjustable showers. A shuttle bus to the airport is also available, making it a very convenient base for travel. Leave your search for a barrier-free hotel to the experts.When searching for a barrier-free hotel, there are many things to check, such as whether there are steps in the room, the specifications of the bathroom, and the space around the bed. However, it is often difficult to find detailed information on the hotel's website alone. In such cases, it is time-consuming to contact each hotel individually. If you consult with a barrier-free travel specialist, we will provide comprehensive support, from suggesting the most suitable hotel to making a reservation, tailored to each customer's needs and physical condition.[Consult a concierge on WhatsApp (Free)]Frequently Asked Questions about Accessibility at Narita AirportWhen researching accessibility at Narita Airport, you may have many questions. Here, we have compiled frequently asked questions and answers that address common concerns and provide helpful information to know in advance. We will also explain specific cases such as bringing in assistance dogs and medical equipment, so please refer to this information.Are service dogs (guide dogs, hearing dogs, assistance dogs) allowed?Yes, guide dogs, hearing dogs, and service dogs certified under the Assistance Dogs for Persons with Disabilities Act are permitted to accompany passengers inside airport terminal buildings and on aircraft. You may be asked to present documentation proving that your dog is an assistance dog at check-in counters, so it's a good idea to have it ready. However, if you are traveling overseas, you will need to follow the quarantine procedures of your destination country (such as vaccination certificates and health certificates). These procedures can be complex, so it is important to check with the airline and the embassy of your destination country in advance.Are there any procedures required to bring in medical equipment?Personal medical devices used during travel, such as insulin injections, self-injectors, and CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) devices, are generally permitted on board aircraft. However, depending on the type of device and the specifications of its built-in battery, airline regulations may require prior declaration or a doctor's certificate. To ensure a smooth passage through security and safe use on board, be sure to contact your airline when booking your ticket or before departure to confirm any necessary procedures and precautions.Do I need to book airport support in advance?Some services, like wheelchairs provided by the airport, can be used on the day without a reservation. However, for personal services provided by airlines, such as assistance with mobility from check-in to boarding and transfer support, advance reservations are strongly recommended. By contacting the airline in advance, they can ensure that the necessary staff and equipment are arranged, reducing waiting times on the day and providing smooth support. We recommend contacting the airline at the same time as booking your flight, or at the latest a few days before departure.Where can I inquire about detailed accessibility information?For general information about airport facilities and services, the most reliable method is to visit the official Narita Airport website or inquire at the information centers in each terminal. Telephone inquiries are also accepted. On the other hand, for specific details regarding airline services, such as assistance with boarding and disembarking, or special considerations on board, you will need to contact the reservation center or special assistance desk of your respective airline directly.For detailed information on barrier-free services offered by different airlines, please see "Traveling to Japan in a Wheelchair! A Complete Guide to Airline-Specific Barrier-Free Services."If you have concerns about using Narita Airport, consult a barrier-free travel specialist.As we've discussed, Narita Airport boasts excellent barrier-free facilities and support systems. However, travel can still be daunting, especially when navigating unfamiliar places or when individual needs require special accommodations. In such cases, why not consult a barrier-free travel specialist instead of worrying alone? A specialized travel agency can provide comprehensive support for every aspect of your trip, from arranging airport assistance to finding wheelchair-accessible transportation, accommodations, and sightseeing plans. Please consider this as one option for ensuring a safe and comfortable trip.