We arrived at Haneda Airport, Tokyo around midnight so we couldn’t wait to get out but I did take note of accessibility and the facilities as we whizzed through. On our departure from Haneda Airport I had a few hours to explore the airport so I could report back. It’s always good to have the opportunity to review airport accessibility to share with our readers. Haneda Airport is a convenient airport for accessing central Tokyo and offers travellers living with a disability various services and facilities.
Haneda Airport Tokyo review
As we disembarked our flight from Australia I was immediately impressed by the cleanliness and facilities at Haneda Airport. Walking from the gate to immigration I was amazed at how many bathroom facilities are available.
Our first experience with the respectful Japanese culture was at the baggage carousel. What a pleasant surprise, and how unusual, to watch people standing back behind a line waiting for their bags. There was no jostling for position or crowding the carousel. It was totally civilised making me wonder what the Japanese think of the argy-bargy at an Australian carousel.
My first look at a Japanese accessible bathroom was a confusing and overwhelming one. That may have just been the fact we were arriving so late after many delays but there really is a dazzling array of equipment in their accessible bathrooms.
The accessible bathrooms are equipped with a change table (no hoist), a toilet with grab bars and an ostomate sink and washing facilities.
As with all Japanese toilets there are a variety of functions available including a flush button operated with the wave of a hand.
Information Centre at Haneda Airport
If you need any assistance head to the Information Centre. There you will find writing communication boards and communication support boards available for speaking and hearing-impaired customers.
Hidden disabilities are recognised at Haneda Airport and at Terminals 1, 2, and 3, Hidden Disabilities Sunflower lanyards are available at the information desks. The lanyards aim to make it easier for airport visitors to use support and guidance services.
Mobility assistance at Haneda Airport
Haneda Airport is vast and it can be quite a distance to and from the gates so I recommend booking a passenger cart. If you would like to use this service, you need to notify the Information Counter or the staff of your airline when you check in on the day of your flight. It would probably be worthwhile noting in your airline booking that you’ll need airport assistance too.
Quiet spaces
An attempt has been made to provide a quiet space for people to use as a retreat. These are called ‘calm down, cool down spaces.’Â The one we spotted was not in an ideal location as it was right beside noisy drink vending machines. It would be worth checking the Haneda Airport website for locations.
The quiet space is also extremely confined but it may be a welcome reprieve for some travellers.
Priority seating for travellers who are disabled, elderly or pregnant is provided near the boarding gates. The seating doesn’t provide an armrest which I know would make it difficult for many elderly people for standing up but it is good for anyone wanting to transfer from a wheelchair. It’s always hard to provide access facilities to suit everyone.
Smoking rooms are common around Tokyo and even at the airport there are smoking rooms. These are past security so for anyone needing one last puff, there’s somewhere to do it.
I love seeing the baby/child seats provided at Haneda Airport. Perfect for little legs that find big airport terminals exhausting.
There are a plethora of dining and shopping options before and after security at Haneda Airport. As with most airport shopping outlets, it is more expensive than downtown Tokyo but ideal if you forgot to buy something for that special someone.
Haneda Airport seems to be dedicated to providing a range of services to ensure a positive experience for seniors and travellers with a range of needs. If you need assistance you are able to book a qualified “Care-Fitter” staff to provide assistance. You can book this service through the special assistance reservation link or ask at any information desk at the airport terminal.
Find accessible accommodation near Haneda Airport here.
