New Mobility Experience at Ishihara Elephant Kingdom
In a significant step towards inclusivity, Ishihara Elephant Kingdom, located in Chiba Prefecture, will launch the WHILL mobility service on July 1, 2025. This service aims to provide a seamless exploration experience for visitors of all demographics, including families with varying age groups, individuals with mobility concerns, and even international tourists.
The Ishihara Elephant Kingdom is home to Japan's largest number of elephants, boasting nine majestic creatures alongside around 70 different animal species. With the upcoming summer holidays, known for increased family visits, the introduction of the WHILL mobility service is perfectly timed to cater to the diverse needs of visitors.
The WHILL is an easy-to-use, user-friendly electric mobility device that requires no driving license. It traverses pedestrian areas at the same speed as walking humans, making it accessible for everyone, regardless of age or physical condition. With its sleek design and intuitive controls, visitors are encouraged to explore the zoo effortlessly. It is built to navigate challenging terrains, including slopes of up to 10°, ensuring a comfortable ride across various locations within the zoo.
This innovative initiative responds to the increasing demand for accessible transportation within the zoo, especially considering its vast landscape, which features numerous inclines and elevation changes. Elderly visitors, individuals recovering from injuries, or those who may struggle with long distances will now have the opportunity to fully enjoy the diverse attractions without physical strain.
As part of this service, two high-performance “WHILL Model R” mobility scooters will be available for rental. These scooters can overcome 5 cm obstacles effortlessly and possess a high turning ability, making them ideal for navigating tight spaces within the zoo. The smooth ride is enhanced by rear suspension, ensuring comfort while exploring the zoo’s grounds.
The introduction of the WHILL mobility service aligns with recent legal requirements in Japan, which emphasize the importance of reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities or mobility challenges. As the population aged 65 and over approaches 30% of the total population, the need for inclusive recreational spaces becomes more pressing. Moreover, the ongoing increase in international visitors provides additional motivation for the delivery of accessible outdoor activities.
The WHILL mobility service is an economical solution, combining insurance and maintenance with a comprehensive management system. This service model allows facilities to adopt such systems without the burden of significant investment. This approach is gaining traction across various parks, tourist attractions, and theme parks throughout Japan, with many facilities adopting similar services to enhance their visitor experiences.
Ishihara Elephant Kingdom offers WHILL rentals from the entrance ticket booth. The rental cost is set at ¥1,000 for a two-hour period, with options for extended rentals available via a mobile app that facilitates easy booking and returns. Users must meet certain criteria, including a weight limit of 147 kg and the ability to operate the device safely. The app also ensures secure rental procedures and enables users to lock the scooter while temporarily away.
The WHILL mobile app simplifies the rental experience, showcasing available WHILL locations and models, thus enabling visitors to plan their trips accordingly. It also aids the facility in streamlining its operations, allowing them to maintain service quality without over-relying on staffing resources.
Both Ishihara Elephant Kingdom and WHILL Corporation are committed to cultivating an inclusive environment where everyone can enjoy the beauty of nature and the joy of animals. By embracing innovation backed by thoughtful accessibility initiatives, they aim to attract an even broader audience and enhance the overall experience at the zoo.
For more information about the WHILL mobility service and available rentals at Ishihara Elephant Kingdom, visit
Ishihara Elephant Kingdom and check the WHILL app for updates before your visit.