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Experience the Dream: Driving for Visually Impaired Individuals in Kyoto

On October 12, 2026, the Kansai region will host its inaugural driving experience tour for visually impaired individuals, enabling them to realize their long-held dreams of driving. This unique event, titled "Kyoto City Driving Experience Tour for Visually Impaired," is organized by the Japan Care System and supported by the Auto Technic Japan Co. and the Wakasa Living Co. The tour aims to provide visually impaired participants with the exhilarating and emotional opportunity to take the wheel themselves.

Background of the Tour

Many visually impaired individuals have often expressed their desire to drive, stating sentiments like, "I wish I could drive just once" or "After losing my sight due to illness, I'd like to grip the steering wheel again." However, due to safety concerns and environmental challenges, the opportunity to fulfill this dream is vastly limited.

The Japan Care System, which champions universal tourism, is committed to making society more accessible for disabled individuals by providing support for outings and barrier-free travel services. By collaborating with Auto Technic Japan, this tour aims to offer visually impaired individuals a chance to enjoy the thrill of driving firsthand. The tour is also made possible with the support of the Delta Driving School and the Wakasa Living Co., which has been actively engaged in initiatives to support visually impaired individuals, including guide dog training.

What Makes This Tour Special?

1. A Safe and Emotional Driving Experience

Participants will have the chance to realize their dreams safely, as the driving experience will take place on a closed driving course. Auto Technic Japan's automotive professionals will accompany participants in the passenger seat, providing support while they drive, allowing them to enjoy the thrill of controlling the vehicle without concerns for safety.

2. Understanding Road Safety from the Driver's Perspective

This experience goes beyond mere leisure. By assuming the role of a "driver," participants will gain a deeper understanding of vehicle dynamics, speed, and blind spots. This knowledge fosters a heightened awareness of pedestrian safety, contributing to efforts to reduce traffic accidents.

3. Promoting 'Emotional Barrier-Free' Interactions

Worried about attending alone? Participants will benefit from the companionship of students and staff from Wakasa Living, who will serve as volunteer guides. This not only provides assistance in mobility but also encourages social interactions during the trip, especially during the dinner exchange at Wakasa Living's headquarters in the evening.

Tour Details

• - Tour Name: Kyoto City Driving Experience Tour for Visually Impaired (Day Trip)
• - Date: October 12, 2026
• - Cost: ￥58,000 per person (limited to those aged 18 and older)
• - Participants: Limited to 12 guests (minimum number needed is 10)
• - Location: Delta Driving School, Kyoto
• - Transportation: Charter bus between JR Kyoto Station and the driving school, as well as the evening event at Wakasa Living headquarters.
• - Meals: Includes lunch (bento) and dinner

Registration includes inquiries on guide dog usage, allergies, vision conditions, and requests for volunteer assistance.
The tour is planned in cooperation with Auto Technic Japan, Delta Driving School, and Wakasa Living.

Testimonials from Participants

Several participants from previous driving tours have expressed their gratitude:

• - W. (Female, Kanagawa): “I had a wonderful time thanks to the student volunteers and instructors’ supportive approach. It was gratifying to finally grasp the steering wheel again! Thank you for this rare opportunity.”
• - K. (Male, Tokyo): “The experience was rewarding. I gained insights into driving, and the volunteers’ support made it a pleasant learning environment.”
• - T. (Male, Miyagi): “This experience was life-changing for me. I have long believed that driving is impossible for someone like me who can barely see. This event gave me hope. Thank you for bringing this to life.”

Japan Care System’s Vision

Japan Care System is on a mission to create a society where those requiring care, due to illness or injury, can still pursue adventures and experiences they desire. The values instilled in this tour reflect their principle of focusing on how to safely enable these experiences rather than highlighting reasons against them.
With innovations like partnerships with the "KamiBito" service for travel preparation, they continue to strengthen total support for outings. Japan Care System remains dedicated to supporting diverse challenges and contributing to a more inclusive society.

For media inquiries regarding this event, please contact: Japan Care System (Japan Care Travel Services) at their Tokyo or Osaka offices.

Conclusion

The upcoming driving experience for visually impaired individuals in Kyoto presents a groundbreaking opportunity to shift societal perspectives and empower this community. For interested parties, further information and registration details can be found on the Japan Care System’s official website.