Enhancing Accessibility at Kenrokuen Garden with COLORS® Wheelchair
In a remarkable move towards inclusivity, COLORS® has launched its innovative wheelchair at Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan's three great gardens, located in Mito City, Ibaraki Prefecture. Designed to facilitate safe and comfortable movement over uneven terrains, gravel paths, and gentle slopes, this wheelchair is set to transform the experience for visitors with mobility challenges.
A Brief History of Kenrokuen
Kenrokuen, originally established by Tokugawa Nariaki, the ninth lord of the Mito domain, translates to "Garden of Six Qualities". The garden was intended as a place of enjoyment for both the ruler and the local populace, and it showcases the beauty of Japanese landscape architecture through its seasonal blossoms, picturesque ponds, and meticulously manicured paths. While the garden has made strides toward becoming more accessible with its barrier-free walkways, the natural undulations and gravel paths have often posed difficulties for traditional wheelchairs.
Why COLORS®?
The COLORS® wheelchair, developed by COLORS Inc., utilizes patented technology specifically engineered to handle diverse outdoor environments. It helps users navigate the garden’s unique challenges with ease. Here are some standout features of this innovative wheelchair:
- - Outstanding Maneuverability: The wheelchair can traverse gravel paths and overcome obstacles with relative ease, allowing users to explore the maze of trails in Kenrokuen without hassle.
- - Intuitive Operation: Designed with user experience in mind, the COLORS® wheelchair is straightforward to operate, making it accessible even for those unfamiliar with wheelchair use.
- - Aesthetic Design: The wheelchair's color scheme and frame are designed to harmonize with the traditional aesthetics of the garden, ensuring that it complements rather than detracts from the natural beauty of the surroundings.
When Can You Start Using COLORS®?
The COLORS® wheelchair will be officially available for use starting February 20, 2026, coinciding with the Mito Plum Blossom Festival, an annual celebration that showcases the beauty of plum blossoms and attracts visitors from across the country. Visitors can find the wheelchair stationed at various key locations around the garden, including:
- - Kenrokuen Park Center
- - Main Entrance Toll Booth
- - Mihari-tei Pavilion
For those interested in utilizing the COLORS® wheelchair, inquiries can be directed to nearby staff members, ensuring that assistance is readily available.
About COLORS Inc.
Founded in December 2011, COLORS Inc. is headquartered in Ota City, Tokyo. The company has a mission to support communities in achieving a fulfilling and unique lifestyle for all residents. By offering a variety of caregiving services aimed at the elderly, COLORS is dedicated to promoting multi-generational harmonious living while addressing the needs of a diverse range of individuals. Their commitment extends beyond elderly care to disability services and child support, creating a comprehensive framework for community development.
Get in Touch
For further inquiries regarding the COLORS® wheelchair or services offered by COLORS Inc., please contact:
Kenrokuen Garden’s adoption of the COLORS® wheelchair marks a significant step towards ensuring that everyone can enjoy the serenity and beauty of this historical landscape, reinforcing the principle that accessibility enriches all lives.