Storing a Wheelchair in Japan

Hi all!

First, my question: If someone has a wheelchair, but can walk a little and wants to go a place and temporarily leave the wheelchair (going into a shop off the street for example). Or perhaps a sumo match where they can walk to their seat. Where could we leave the wheelchair? It’s too big for lockers naturally (even folded probably too long for the tall locker). Could we park it with any bicycles and lock it like a bike?

Any insight is appreciated.

## Background

I’ve been to Japan many times, but this is the first time someone is coming with me who is in a wheelchair. Due to a neurological condition, she can walk a little, but must rest on the long journeys to and from the various sights. Which won’t be a big deal, as I will be pushing her all that time.

Since she is not wheelchair bound and can walk a little, she plans to get up and walk around at a a few temples or shrines for a bit while I keep the wheelchair handy. For example, we won’t need to use elevators in stations when escalators are available: I can fold the wheelchair up and take it up the escalator etc.

We have some things planned that may require us to leave the wheelchair, specifically the Fukuoka Sumo Tournament on the 22nd of Nov.

They have wheelchair seats but you ahve to call, it’s all in Japanese, and my Japanese isn’t THAT good. And since she’s not wheelchair bound, we could easily take a bus, or walk, or take a taxi, but I would feel most comfortable not leaving the wheelchair at the hotel.

Thanks again for your help!