How far has Japanese accessibility improved with Tokyo 2020 Olympics/Paralympics?

Abstract

The IOC/IPC decision of Tokyo 2020 in September 2013 necessitated accessibility improvements in Tokyo to enable trouble-free visits for the guests including the athletes. At its preparatory stage, the author expressed concern whether the spectators can reach their seats in time. Otherwise, it would result in games missed due to various potential troubles (author, 2016). London IPC Guide, translated into Japanese, was forwarded to the organizing committee to examine problems and upgrade situations in Tokyo. The gaps between Japanese standard practice and IPC Guide were filled as much as possible, along with several policy developments to make the way toward inclusive environment. Since the games were played without spectators due to COVID-19 restrictions, feared problems never surfaced: traffic jam did not occur; no sight line problems were reported; nor shortage of accessible hotel accommodation emerged. (They definitely would have happened if the stadiums and arenas were fully occupied, even with delay of one full year, particularly for the renovated facilities of existing ones.) Although not in time for the Games, some of the problems are gradually being solved, such as increasing the number of wheelchair accessible seats for the new carriage of the Bullet Trains, introduction of accessibility guidelines for small businesses that are deemed non-mandatory, or various design of toilets for diverse users (not just wheelchair accessible ones). It still seems to be slow for businesses to understand/accept the concept of reasonable accommodation to enable the users to fully appreciate the benefits of inclusiveness. Is it because of the lack of disability discrimination legislation based on UN-CRPD? This paper will argue on the issue.

Keywords: Built environment, universal design, accessibility, usability, inclusiveness.

DOI: 10.54941/ahfe1004787