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Enhancing Accessibility for All in Atami

Atami City, known for its beautiful hot springs and scenic views, is set to improve its tourism accessibility significantly. In collaboration with the Atami Tourism Association and WHILL Inc., the city will launch a new rental service featuring the WHILL Model R, a four-wheel mobility scooter that requires no driver's license. Set to commence on April 23, 2026, this initiative aims to ensure that visitors of all ages and physical abilities can easily navigate the area.

Why Accessibility Matters

The increasing number of tourists visiting Atami has been notable, especially post-COVID-19, with different demographics looking for convenient ways to explore the city's attractions. By 2025, overnight stays in Atami are expected to exceed three million, along with over 1.5 million day visitors. As the city's geography includes steep hills and varying terrains, ensuring that all visitors can access different attractions without excessive physical strain becomes vital. This new service will undoubtedly enhance the tourist experience in Atami, accommodating different mobility needs.

WHILL Model R: Making Mobility Easy

The scooters provided under this initiative are designed with high performance in mind. The WHILL Model R operates similarly to a bicycle, providing an easy and stable ride at walking speed across various terrains, including uneven paths and slopes. This model allows for tight turns and is equipped with features to ride comfortably on sidewalks. With this, families can explore Atami's rich offerings at a leisurely pace, promoting increased stay durations and overall visitor satisfaction.

Rental Details

The rental service will allow users to pick up the WHILL Model R at strategic locations, including:

• - Atami City Tourist Association (Wakagaeru Station)
• - Atami Tourist Information Center (Lusca Atami’s first floor)

The rental fee is set at 4,000 yen (tax inclusive) per session. Users will need to download the 'WHILL Rental' app to reserve and return the scooters, requiring simple account registration to start. Remarkably, this service will be available across the entire Atami area, including the nearby Hatsu Island.

Setting New Standards in Tourism

As Atami City prioritizes accessibility in its tourism initiatives, the upcoming WHILL service stands as a significant step towards inclusivity. This aligns with the Atami Tourism Association's broader strategy to incorporate various mobility services, focusing on creating a welcoming environment for all. It promotes not only the ease of movement for individuals who may have difficulty walking but also aims to stimulate local economic growth by boosting visitor numbers and engagement in the area.

By addressing the mobility challenges faced by many visitors, the collaboration between the Atami authorities and WHILL is poised to redefine the local tourism experience. Their commitment goes beyond just accessibility; it’s about fostering an environment where everyone, regardless of their physical capabilities, can enjoy the beauty and charm of Atami to its fullest.

Conclusion

With the impending launch of this accessibility initiative, Atami City continues to position itself as a forward-thinking destination. By welcoming a diverse range of tourists through enhanced mobility options, the city is paving the way for a more inclusive and enjoyable travel experience. As such, Atami’s authorities remain dedicated to ensuring that the city becomes a preferred destination for international and domestic travelers alike, creating lasting memories for everyone involved.

For more detailed information and updates, you can contact the Atami City Tourist Association at TEL: 0557-85-2222 or email at [email protected].