|
|
"Tourism for All in Japan" was
formed in April, 1991, with a membership
of only 10. But each member was highly motivated.
The purpose of this study group was to consider
the way to promote social environment that
everyone (including elderly and disabled)
can travel freely to everywhere. The members
began the activity by asking themselves what
they can do. The members included the people
from various kinds of professions and statuses,
but they all loved travel.The number of members
has grown to over 100．
From the beginning to the present time, we
have held monthly study meetings totaling
more than 100 times. In each meetings we
invite various lecturers who are involving
in the travel of the elderly and disabled
person.
As outward activities, we have held
a trip
to Hawaii (1992) and symposia on the
travel
of the elderly and disabled (1994,1997).
We also published a book named "A
handbook
for the travel of the disabled"
in 1995
by Gakuensha Publications.
We have two sub-groups named "Manabi-tai"(Learning Group) and "Asobi-tai"(Playing Group).
In Manabi-tai, we settle down to study on such specific theme as the attendant care during travel and legislation
for traffic access. Before the opening of the Nagano Paralimpic Games in 1998, we visited various sites and
facilities to check their accessibility. On the other hand, in Asobi-tai, we actually go to the enjoyable
sightseeing spots and experience the means of transportation.
From the early time, we have actively taken up the issues of "barrier-free"and "universal design."
We also deal with the town-making project to secure access for all as the problems that exists on the extended
line of travel. And we also try to deal with new and timely issues such as the attendant dog.
In addition to these, we have actively engaged in the exchange programs with other groups
and organizations that have worked for similar objectives with us.
The most important objective of our activities is to make social environment
which everyone including the disabled can travel comfortably without worry
about anything. To realize this objective, it is necessary to reform everyone's
sense to make sure that "tourism for all" is not special problem
of the elderly and disabled, as well as to improve physical accessibility
of public transportation, accommodation facilities, and towns in general.
We hope to contribute to make society that everyone can live together in cooperation with various people and
organizations that have the same or similar objectives.
|
