Japan EDIA Resources

Tokyo’s public transportation system is increasingly accessible and easy to navigate for students with physical disabilities and mobility issues. Most trains and subway stations are equipped with elevators and escalators, and many stations have accessible platforms for wheelchair users  to board the train from the platform. Tenji blocks (i.e., tactile paving blocks) are yellow guide paths that help visually impaired individuals navigate stairs, elevators, and railway platforms throughout public transportation in Japan. Other accessibility features include Tokyo Metro operators using QR codes and tablet/smart-phone based systems to assist riders with disabilities,  providing a more seamless experience between stations. For more information on accessible infrastructure and features in Japan’s public transportation system, please visit Accessible Japan’s online guide, “Wheelchair Accessible Trains and Subways in Japan.” 

The Tokyo Metro also uses both English and Japanese on its subway stops and maps, making it easier for travellers to navigate the subway. The Tokyo Metro has an online guide on how to use its subway system, including how to read the station numbers and a PDF version of the metro system in English. 

Most people prefer to navigate Tokyo with public transportation as it is fast, reliable, and accessible. However, taxis are another option for those who need to get around, especially after midnight when the subway closes. There has been an increase of taxis with wheelchair ramps and special seats that rotate outwards for easier boarding. However, not all taxis are equipped with ramps. To book a taxi in Japan, you can use one of Japan's most used Taxi apps, Go App.

The climate in Japan is different throughout various regions. The climate in Tokyo (located in the Kanto/Koshin region) is temperate with hot, humid, and rainy summers. The Summer Abroad Japan program happens during May, which is Spring in Japan. Spring is one of the best times to visit Japan, as the weather is generally warm with an average temperature of around 23°C. The humidity in Japan is quite high (80%), so this will make the temperature feel even warmer. It is important to plan for the heat humidity by packing breathable and light layers, cotton clothing, sun protection including sunscreen and hats.

Societal attitudes towards service dogs in Japan continue to evolve, especially with the establishment of the Act on Assistance dogs for Physically Disabled Persons (2002). However, bringing a service dog to Japan is a lengthy and detailed process that takes over six months of planning. This is because Japan is a rabies-free country and works to maintain its rabies-free status through rigorous import control, including extended quarantine periods, rabies antibody test requirements, etc. To view a thorough list of requirements for importing a dog into Japan, please refer to the Government of Japan’s official guide that describes all requirements and necessary procedures. It is important to note that due to the strict regulations and long timeline of preparing to bring a service dog into Japan, it will be very difficult to bring a service dog to the Japan Summer Abroad program. If you have a service dog for a disability, it is advised that you contact your Accessibility Advisor and the Summer Abroad Diversity & Inclusion Program Coordinator (summerabroad.edi@utoronto.ca) so that we may assist in you in researching this process thoroughly and help you ascertain the additional costs you may need to consider. 

If you have specific accessibility and mobility needs that may not be supported by the residence accommodation, you do have the option to stay off-campus to access suitable accommodations, such as a hotel or apartment. These accommodations are paid for separately and may be more expensive. 

If you require a private accommodation for health reasons, you are required to research your own accommodations (i.e., hotels) in the area that are in close proximity to the residence. Please note that Summer Abroad does not book private accommodations for students, and that students are also responsible for additional incurred fees (paid directly to the hotel or booking website).  

We encourage you to reach out to the Summer Abroad Diversity & Inclusion Program Coordinator (summerabroad.edi@utoronto.ca) about any mobility-related requirements or accommodations as soon as you receive your program admission. We strongly encourage you connect with the Summer Abroad office to discuss your needs before applying your Summer Abroad program. We will work closely with you to plan your experience abroad, taking into consideration your accessibility needs.  

Japanese society’s cultural perspective towards mental health has often been surrounded by stigma and taboo, as mental health problems have often been viewed as a sign of personal weakness, a perspective that that has discouraged individuals from seeking help. Japan is also influenced by the “hone/tatemae” culture that promotes the maintenance of harmony, making it difficult for Japanese people to express their true feelings. However, Japan continues to make significant progress to improve mental health awareness and support, such as government initiatives to respond to mental health issues. For this reason, if you require mental health support while abroad, it is important to remember that these stigmas come from a cross-cultural difference, and do not stem from ignorance. 

If you are bringing medication with you into Japan, remember to check if your medicine is allowed in Japan. The Government of Canada’s Travel Advisory for Japan lists the types of medications that are not allowed in Japan (even with a prescription). If you are not sure about a medication, you can check with the Embassy of Japan in Canada. You should always carry your prescription medication in its original packaging, with your doctor’s prescription. 

Reminder: Students with pre-existing concerns must meet with their Accessibility Advisor to discuss needs and prepare relevant documentations before applying for Summer Abroad.  

Japan is a very safe country for 2LSBGTQ+ students and travellers. It is important to note that Japan has a socially conservative culture, meaning it is important to be respectful and cautious of certain behaviours, such as public displays of affection, which is something that Japanese rarely do (whether heterosexual or 2SLGBTQ+). 

Although same-sex marriage is illegal in Japan, Tokyo issues special same-sex partnership certificates. Tokyo has the biggest LGBTQ+ community in Japan, and hosts Tokyo Rainbow Pride, a weeklong festival with LGBTQ+ friendly events every year in late April/early May. As a nation, Japan continues to make significant progress with attitudes and laws towards greater legal equality for LGBTQ individuals. 

Attitudes and perceptions towards 2SLGBTQ+ students in different regions of Japan may differ than Tokyo. For this reason, it is always recommended to exercise personal judgment and consider local customs and laws when navigating LGBTQ+ issues in specific locations, especially while exploring the country on your own. Being aware of local attitudes and customs can help ensure a safe and positive experience during your time in Japan.  

As a U of T Summer Abroad student participant, you are encouraged to express your preferences and specific needs, as we are committed to provide a supportive and inclusive environment for all students to the best of our ability, regardless of your sexual orientation or gender identity. If you have any concerns or need support related to 2SLGBTQ+ accommodations, please do not hesitate to contact us, and we will assist you in finding the necessary resources and available accommodation options.  

Women travelling alone in Japan may be subject to some forms of harassment and verbal abuse, including inappropriate physical contact that may occur on busy subways and trains. There are women-only train cars during rush hour. This inappropriate physical contact is often referred to as “chikan” in Japan, known as touching without consent in public places, such as on crowded trains, and is reported to be a widespread problem in Japan since extensive rail networks transport millions of passengers every day. 

If you experience sexual harassment or feel uncomfortable while you are abroad, you can reach out to Summer Abroad and Safety Abroad for help, and they will help connect you with U of T resources including the Sexual Violence Prevention & Support Centre. For more information on how Safety Abroad can support you in a crisis, please click here to view Safety Abroad’s resources (under “sexual harassment & violence” and “in a crisis.”) 

Japan’s culture of looking after guests is often referred to as “omotenashi,” which represents the Japanese mindset of hospitality centered around care, rather than expectation. Many travellers will often experience this hospitality in Japan and have positive and joyful experiences. However, racialized students may experience discrimination due to Japan’s social attitudes. As a homogenous country like other countries in east Asia, visitors who appear visibly different from the majority may be easily identified as being foreign, especially for people of colour. This may include staring, which is often driven by curiosity, which is often based on genuine interest rather than hostility. 

If you feel unsafe or experience racism during your time in the Summer Abroad program, we encourage you to report the incident immediately to the Summer Abroad office or reach out to the On-Site Coordinators, who will contact U of T Safety Abroad to provide immediate support, including connecting you with U of T Resources such as the Anti-Racism and Cultural Diversity Office (ARCDO). 

There is no single dominant religion in Japan, instead multiple religious systems exist together, such as Shintō, Confucianism, Buddhism, and Christianity. Minority religions with small presences include Islam, Judaism, and Hinduism. If you observe a religious holiday and would like to know what religious accommodations are available, please contact the Summer Abroad Office so we can help you explore your options, including finding a religious site in Tokyo. 

The presence of Islam in Japan continues to increase, with over 230,000 Japanese identifying as Muslim by the end of 2020. The number of mosques across Japan continue to increase as well. Japan continues to accommodate to Muslim travelers with major cities having accessible mosques, prayer spaces, and halal restaurants. When visiting restaurants and purchasing food in Japan, it is important to do your research and see if halal food options are available. Numerous online guides are available online, such as the online database “Halal Gourmet Japan,” and Japan Guide’s “Basics for Muslim Travelers in Japan” online article. 

The Jewish community in Japan is very small, and kosher food options are limited in Japan. Tourist Japan has an online guide to find kosher food, “How to Keep Kosher in Japan” that enlists tips on how to find available food options with planning and research. 

If you are looking for religious accommodation support during your Summer Abroad program, such as religious observations that may conflict with academic activities and field trips, please contact the Summer Abroad Diversity & Inclusion Program Coordinator in advance. Summer Abroad will work closely with you to ensure that your religious observance needs are accommodated to the best of our ability, creating an inclusive environment that respects and values your faith while planning and participating your Summer Abroad experience.