Barrier-free citywalk in Futian

For most people, a citywalk means exploring a city on foot. Participants can follow a unique urban route, soaking up the atmosphere, exploring historic buildings, browsing boutiques, sipping coffee, and indulging in authentic local snacks.

Now, thanks to a specialized barrier-free taxi service recently launched by Futian District, these experiences are accessible to people with disabilities, seniors, and other groups. 

A man in wheelchair looks out over the Shenzhen Sports Center Stadium in Futian District. Shenzhen Special Zone Daily 

The five new barrier-free sightseeing routes cover 23 landmarks in the district, including the Ping An Finance Center, the Festival Avenue shopping mall, the Shenzhen Museum, Bijia Mountain Park, and the Futian Mangrove Nature Reserve.

Each stop along the routes includes designated drop-off and pick-up areas for barrier-free taxis, ensuring that passengers can be safely transported to their destinations.

Barrier-free taxis are equipped with foldable ramps, allowing wheelchair users to easily board. The interior of the taxis offers ample space to accommodate electric wheelchairs. Additionally, all drivers have undergone professional training in the use of automatic external defibrillators (AEDs) and other assistive devices.

A taxi driver assists a man in a wheelchair board a barrier-free taxis in Futian District in May. Shenzhen Special Zone Daily

"In the past, it was often embarrassing to find that regular taxis couldn't fit my wheelchair in the trunk. Now, with just a mobile phone reservation, the driver will proactively help me get into the car. It feels like having a personal vehicle," said Ms. Li, a woman who uses a wheelchair.

A resident surnamed Wang who is visually impaired and physically disabled shared his experience of getting in and out of a barrier-free taxi with the help of the driver. "After the taxi driver secures the wheelchair, he will tap on the inside of the car to help me understand the space inside the cabin, which prevents me from bumping into anything. This detail is very reassuring."