Expansion of Wheelchair Rental Service Available for Use Outside of Stations
Expansion of wheelchair rental services at train stations.
📋 Article Processing Timeline
- 📰 Published: March 28, 2026 at 01:05
- 🔍 Collected: March 28, 2026 at 21:59 (20h 54m after Published)
- 🤖 AI Analyzed: April 15, 2026 at 04:20 (414h 20m after Collected)
〇 JR East Marketing & Communications, Inc. is working to expand the 'Wheelchair Rental Service by Babycal,' a service that allows users to reserve wheelchairs and use them while out and about.
〇 By further strengthening collaboration with Max Co., Ltd. and Kawamura Cycle Co., Ltd., we will begin wheelchair rental services at Kobe Municipal Subway Harborland Station starting April 1st.
〇 We will continue to strive toward creating an environment where those who need support while traveling can easily rent wheelchairs, aiming to realize a society where everyone can go out more freely and with peace of mind.
1. Overview
| Service Start Date | April 1, 2026 (Wed) (*1) |
| Location & Rental Hours | [Babycal Stand (Unmanned)] Kobe Municipal Subway Harborland Station, outside the ticket gate, daily 8:00–21:00 |
| Business Operator | JR East Marketing & Communications, Inc. |
| Usage Fees (Tax-exempt) | 500 yen for the first hour, 100 yen per 30 minutes thereafter. Maximum 1,500 yen for 12 hours, 100 yen per 30 minutes after 12 hours (*2) |
| Customer Inquiries | 0120-619-305 (Business hours: 8:00–21:00, open year-round) |
*1 Please note that services may be suspended, changed, or closed without prior notice. Reservations will be accepted starting March 26, 2026 (Thu) at 14:00.
*2 Membership registration via the website (https://babycal-jre.com/) or app is required to use Babycal. The accompanying person must register as a member. Payment is processed via credit card online.
〈Location〉 Kobe Municipal Subway Harborland Station, outside the ticket gate
FAQ
What is the start date of the new wheelchair rental service?
The service is scheduled to start on April 1, 2026.
Where exactly is the new Babycal stand located?
It is located outside the ticket gate at Kobe Municipal Subway Harborland Station.
What are the hours of operation for the rental service?
The unmanned stand is open daily from 8:00 to 21:00.
What are the usage fees for renting a wheelchair?
It costs 500 yen for the first hour and 100 yen per 30 minutes thereafter, with a maximum of 1,500 yen for 12 hours.
How can customers register and pay for the service?
Users must register as members via the website or app and pay with a credit card online.