WHILL Short-Distance Mobility Rental Now Available on Iioka Kanko Chartered Buses
Promoting accessible tourism where everyone can enjoy travel regardless of age or disability.
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- 📰 Published: March 31, 2026 at 20:00
WHILL, Inc. (Headquarters: Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo; CEO: Satoshi Sugie) announced that starting in April, a rental service for its short-distance mobility device, WHILL, will be introduced to the chartered bus business operated by Iioka Kanko Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Minami-Alps City, Yamanashi Prefecture; CEO: Takehiro Akiyama). Iioka Kanko has been a pioneer in promoting accessible tourism in the region, owning the prefecture's only large bus equipped with a lift. The introduction of WHILL is part of this ongoing effort. By establishing a system that allows for comfortable movement at destinations after disembarking, the companies aim to offer a wide range of travel experiences that everyone can enjoy, regardless of age, disability, or physical condition. Kai Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., which handles WHILL products in the prefecture, is also cooperating in this initiative.
Against the backdrop of an aging population, the accessible tourism market is projected to continue growing until 2035. Many people hesitate to travel due to concerns about mobility, and it is estimated that the potential market size could increase by approximately 1.5 times (equivalent to 42 million people) if these inconveniences are resolved (Note 1). At the same time, inbound foreign travel consumption in 2024 reached a record high of 8.1 trillion yen, a 53.4% increase from the previous year (Note 2), and this upward trend is expected to continue. Combined with legal changes such as the 'mandatory reasonable accommodation,' the social momentum for accessible tourism is rising.
Prior to these developments, Iioka Kanko has been working on initiatives such as introducing large buses with lifts, developing model plans for accessible tourism in Yamanashi Prefecture, and holding training sessions. By newly organizing this WHILL rental service, passengers can switch to a WHILL upon arrival at their destination, allowing them to move freely and comfortably at their own pace, while companions such as family and friends can enjoy the trip together with less burden of support.
The models adopted are the premium 'WHILL Model C2,' which offers excellent stability with high off-road capability and a tight turning radius, and the 'WHILL Model F,' which is compact, foldable, and easy to transport. Both models can travel at the same pace as walking and feature designs that blend into various tourist spots.
Moving forward, both companies will continue to contribute to enhancing accessible tourism value by providing seamless, door-to-door travel services that reduce the burden of movement, welcoming everyone.
Against the backdrop of an aging population, the accessible tourism market is projected to continue growing until 2035. Many people hesitate to travel due to concerns about mobility, and it is estimated that the potential market size could increase by approximately 1.5 times (equivalent to 42 million people) if these inconveniences are resolved (Note 1). At the same time, inbound foreign travel consumption in 2024 reached a record high of 8.1 trillion yen, a 53.4% increase from the previous year (Note 2), and this upward trend is expected to continue. Combined with legal changes such as the 'mandatory reasonable accommodation,' the social momentum for accessible tourism is rising.
Prior to these developments, Iioka Kanko has been working on initiatives such as introducing large buses with lifts, developing model plans for accessible tourism in Yamanashi Prefecture, and holding training sessions. By newly organizing this WHILL rental service, passengers can switch to a WHILL upon arrival at their destination, allowing them to move freely and comfortably at their own pace, while companions such as family and friends can enjoy the trip together with less burden of support.
The models adopted are the premium 'WHILL Model C2,' which offers excellent stability with high off-road capability and a tight turning radius, and the 'WHILL Model F,' which is compact, foldable, and easy to transport. Both models can travel at the same pace as walking and feature designs that blend into various tourist spots.
Moving forward, both companies will continue to contribute to enhancing accessible tourism value by providing seamless, door-to-door travel services that reduce the burden of movement, welcoming everyone.
FAQ
Who can use the WHILL rental service?
Individuals weighing 115kg or less who can place their feet on the footrest while seated and possess the necessary attention for operation can use it. Please contact Iioka Kanko for details.
Which tours offer this service?
It is available for group tours organized by Iioka Kanko. Availability depends on the tour, so please check during advance booking or on the day of the tour.
What kind of vehicle is a WHILL?
It is a short-distance mobility device that does not require a license and can travel in pedestrian areas. It features high maneuverability, obstacle clearance, and a smooth ride.