Abstract
The purpose of this study is to understand the physical accessibility of the child care centers for disabled children in Japan. Fifteen centers located in Tokyo, Japan were surveyed through sketching, measuring, taking pictures, and observation. To understand the user's needs. the directors of the centers were interviewed. As a result,the followings suggestions were proposed. First, when the entrance of the center is close to the road, careful design for the entrance area is required to secure the safety of children using wheelchairs. If possible, a fence or door between the corridor and entrance is necessary. Second, most aspects of accessibility are pretty well designed. But a canopy over the entrance area is required to escape the rain. Third, a wider corridor space is desirable for storing and driving wheelchairs and for special equipment for the disabled. Forth, because the emergency exits were installed but not used, the new and safer emergency exits should be installed. These results will be a good case reference for developing Korean design guidelines for the children with disabilities.