Toyo Fujita( @user_not_found ),a Local Guide from Yao, Osaka, Japan, is on a mission to help others get the accessibility information they need to get around.
On Connect, he’s shared tips on what to look for when taking accessibility photos and how to help people in wheelchairs find hiking trails. He’s also translated accessibility posts written in English to make them easier for Japanese Local Guides to understand.
We recently caught up with Toyo to learn more about his interest in accessibility. Below are his responses which have been lightly edited for clarity.
Why are you passionate about accessibility information being shown on Google Maps?
The accessibility information is very important not only for people with disabilities, but also for caregivers to the elderly and others who do nursing or care work. Also, if people can find the accessibility information easily on the Google Maps, it can motivate them to go to places and enjoy [themselves].
What have you done to help add accessibility information or generate visibility for accessibility information to/for Google Maps?
I publish and link 360 photos together using Street View and integrate information using My Maps. I also share the information on Connect and my blog. I’m trying to introduce the method of sharing such information to others. I received an email from a user who can enjoy outdoor activities because of the accessibility information I shared!
What area (mobility, vision, hearing, etc.) are you most interested in improving?
Mainly, I care about the following information: how to find the wheelchair access, availability of wheelchair-accessible parking, rest spots, multipurpose bathrooms, and whether a place has staff available in a case of emergency.
What’s your favorite Google Maps feature?
I like the “List of Places” function.
What do you wish other Local Guides knew about accessibility?
The importance of multipurpose bathrooms. In Japan, we have a bathroom called “multipurpose bathroom.” It’s a private bathroom that can be used for the physically handicapped, those in wheelchairs, those with children, pregnant women, the elderly, and those with other injuries or illnesses.
What’s one feature would you like to see on Google Maps?
I hope I can embed My Maps - so I can share information with more people.
We hope you enjoyed learning more about Toyo! Are you passionate about adding accessibility info on Google Maps? Share how you’ve made a positive impact in the comments below.
Always supporting and kind 