This brief article describes the policies for the provision of transport for disabled people in Japan. The first programme to be installed was the "welfare orientated town planning" programme. In this programme, access to and within buildings was adapted so that they were more accessible. Local government guidelines were produced to encourage "welfare orientated planning". Specifications were produced on the height of curbs, and the laying of textured pavements for the visually impaired. Other specifications were produced for the dimensions of doorways, paths and parking areas. As regards transport, special subsidies were offered to the disabled and elderly, the main system being the "silver pass", for free use of all public transport. Subsidized taxi services are also provided, as is subsidized petrol for those people with cars. Car drivers can also use toll roads at half price. The railway and bus services and their respective stations have also been modified to improve access by the disabled.
Abstract