As an initiative to ensure that everyone—regardless of age, gender, nationality, or disability—can travel with peace of mind, “Universal Tourism” has been gaining attention. In Hyogo Prefecture, home to Feel Records, the nation’s first “Universal Tourism Promotion Ordinance” has been enacted.
As part of this effort, Feel Records hosted a Monitor Tour for hearing-impaired individuals to experience vinyl records. The tour explored new possibilities of “Feeling Music.” We interviewed Mr. Kinugawa from the NPO Project Plus, the organizer of the event, about the background and participants’ impressions.
What kind of activities does Project Plus engage in?
We operate consultation and welfare service programs for the employment of individuals with disabilities and provide support for children and adults with disabilities in the Tajima region.
Since 2016, we have also been involved in the Hyogo Prefecture Universal Tourism Promotion Project, primarily supporting efforts in the Tajima area. Our activities include forming a network of Universal Tourism Concierges, disseminating and sharing information, and improving the environment for accommodating travelers.
What led to the decision to hold this Monitor Tour?
In the Tajima area, where Feel Records is located, previous monitor tours have allowed individuals with physical disabilities to enjoy nature. Building on those successes, Hyogo Prefecture requested us to organize a tour for hearing-impaired individuals. During the planning process, I recalled a previous experience at Feel Records and instinctively thought it might be possible for hearing-impaired participants to enjoy music. That intuition led us to propose this tour.
We heard there was opposition to this initiative. What motivated you to move forward despite that?
Indeed, there were opinions such as, “We shouldn’t impose the culture of those who can hear on the hearing-impaired,” or “Music experiences might be difficult for hearing-impaired individuals.”
However, I was convinced that the environment at Feel Records would enable them to enjoy music. Most importantly, the monitors who expressed interest in participating were highly eager to experience listening to records, which strongly motivated us to proceed with the plan.
What was your impression of the Monitor Tour at Feel Records?
The participants’ expressions changed immediately when the records started playing, and they gave an “OK” sign, which reassured me. Gradually, they began swaying their bodies to the rhythm, which surprised and deeply moved me. One participant, who enjoys karaoke but had never truly “felt” music before, had always been fascinated by music. Records can capture sounds beyond what the human ear perceives, and perhaps their tactile and immersive nature makes them uniquely appealing for such experiences. I believe this initiative highlighted a new potential for vinyl records and demonstrated that hearing-impaired individuals can also feel and enjoy music.
What feedback did you receive from the participants?
Participants shared that they could “Feel” drums, piano, and vocals, and the experience exceeded their expectations. A sign language interpreter echoed these sentiments, which affirmed that this endeavor was worthwhile.
What potential do you see for services at Feel Records catering to hearing-impaired individuals?
During the tour, communication was facilitated through UD Talk (a speech recognition and auto-translation app) and message boards. However, there were moments when conveying details proved challenging.
Preparing materials in advance or supplementing with apps and boards could make conversations smoother. One suggestion was to display lyrics during the vinyl experience, similar to karaoke, which could enhance enjoyment. Feel Records offers a space where not only those with hearing difficulties but also others can rediscover the charm of vinyl records. I see great potential for it to become a new form of tourism that allows diverse individuals to enjoy music.
As society ages and the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities gains traction, tourism needs are diversifying. This Monitor Tour highlighted the importance of creating inclusive spaces where everyone can enjoy themselves.
Music has the power to connect people and soothe hearts. Building on this experience, Feel Records aims to provide record-based experiences that anyone, regardless of age or disability, can enjoy.
