Hello, students from all around the world! I teach barrier-free (accessible) design classes to elementary and middle school students in Japan. I’m writing this article to share information about barrier-free (accessible) design in Japan with you. I hope this information about barrier-free (accessible) design in Japan will inspire you to think about accessibility in your own country!
Let’s Take a Quiz!
Barrier-free (accessible) cups have a special [ ] that makes them easy to use, even for people who don’t have much strength in their hands. What is it?
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The answer is… a handle!

Image source: Richell Official Web Shop (https://www.richell-shop.jp/c/house/030071)
Why is this Handle Amazing?
The handle on this barrier-free (accessible) cup is very special. Here’s what makes it special:
- It fits perfectly in your hand: Even people with weak hand strength can easily hold it just by hooking their fingers.
- Multi-purpose design: This handle can be used not only for holding the cup but also for draining water.
These small improvements make life easier for many people. This is what makes barrier-free (accessible) design so wonderful!
Barrier-free (Accessible) Cups Around the World
The idea of barrier-free (accessible) cups is spreading all over the world. For example:
- In the United States, cups with spill-proof lids are popular.
- In the United Kingdom, cups with large handles that are easy to hold with both hands are often used.
- In Germany, cups made of lightweight and durable materials have been developed.
All of these are designed with the same goal in mind: to be easy for everyone to use.
What About Your Country?
Now, I’d like you to think about these questions:
- Have you seen cups with special handles in your country or town?
- If not, what kind of cup do you think would be convenient?
- Try to design a cup that would be easy for elderly people or people with disabilities to use. What features should it have?
What We Can Do Together
There are many things we can do to create a barrier-free (accessible) society:
- Be considerate of the people around us
- Take good care of barrier-free (accessible) facilities
- Offer help to people who seem to be having trouble
- Learn more about barrier-free (accessible) design
These small actions can lead to creating a society where everyone can live comfortably.
Become a Barrier-free (Accessible) Explorer!
From today, you’re a member of the “Barrier-free (Accessible) Explorer Team”! Let’s look for barrier-free (accessible) designs in your town.
For example:
- Cups with special handles
- Ramps next to stairs
- Signs with Braille
When you find something, think about what kind of improvements it has and who it’s designed for. You’re sure to make new discoveries!
An Important Request to Everyone
This article is based on experiences and ideas from Japan. The approach to barrier-free (accessible) design might be different in different countries and cultures. Please discuss with your family or teachers about how things are in your country. Let’s think about creating a world where everyone can live comfortably while respecting our differences. This article is not meant to force Japanese ideas or my personal views on you. Also, please always prioritize safety and act with trusted adults. Please keep this in mind.
Also, this article simplifies explanations with the main goal of generating interest in barrier-free (accessible) design rather than ensuring complete accuracy. For accurate information, please check the websites of the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (Japan) or relevant agencies in other countries.
For inquiries → https://lahainars.com/contact/
Note: As I’m not very proficient in English, please use simple and short English sentences when contacting me.
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