Where is Yokota Air Force Base?
Yokota Air Force Base is a United States Air Force base located in the Tokyo metropolitan area, Japan. Specifically, it is situated in the city of Fussa, which is about 12 miles (19 kilometers) northwest of central Tokyo.
History of Yokota Air Force Base
Yokota Air Force Base has a rich history dating back to 1931, when it was established as an Imperial Japanese Army airfield. During World War II, the airfield was used by the Japanese military, and after the war, it was occupied by the United States Army.
In 1950, the airfield was transferred to the United States Air Force, and it was renamed Yokota Air Base. Over the years, the base has undergone several expansions and modernizations, and today it serves as a major hub for the United States military in Japan.
What is Yokota Air Force Base Used For?
Yokota Air Force Base is a multi-mission base, meaning it is used for a variety of purposes. Some of the main missions of the base include:
- Airlift: Yokota Air Force Base is home to the 374th Airlift Wing, which operates C-130J Super Hercules aircraft. The wing provides airlift support to the United States military and its allies in the Asia-Pacific region.
- Communications: The base is also home to the 374th Communications Squadron, which provides global communications support to the United States military.
- Medical: Yokota Air Force Base has a Level III trauma center and a medical clinic, which provides medical care to military personnel and their families.
- Logistics: The base is also used as a logistics hub, providing support to military operations in the Asia-Pacific region.
Facilities and Services
Yokota Air Force Base has a range of facilities and services, including:
- Housing: The base has a range of housing options, including on-base housing and off-base housing assistance.
- Dining: The base has several dining facilities, including a commissary and a food court.
- Recreation: The base has a range of recreational facilities, including a fitness center, a swimming pool, and a golf course.
- Childcare: The base has several childcare facilities, including a child development center and a youth center.
Getting to Yokota Air Force Base
Yokota Air Force Base is located about 12 miles (19 kilometers) northwest of central Tokyo. There are several ways to get to the base, including:
- Taxi: Taxis are widely available in Tokyo and can be hailed on the street or booked in advance.
- Bus: The base is accessible by bus from several locations in Tokyo, including the Shinjuku and Shibuya districts.
- Train: The base is located near the Fussa Station on the JR East railway line.
- Car: The base is accessible by car via the Tokyo Outer Loop Expressway.
Table: Getting to Yokota Air Force Base
| Mode of Transportation | Cost | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Taxi | ¥2,000-¥3,000 | 30-40 minutes |
| Bus | ¥200-¥400 | 45-60 minutes |
| Train | ¥200-¥400 | 30-40 minutes |
| Car | ¥500-¥1,000 | 30-40 minutes |
Conclusion
Yokota Air Force Base is a major hub for the United States military in Japan, providing a range of services and support to military personnel and their families. Located in the Tokyo metropolitan area, the base is easily accessible by taxi, bus, train, or car. Whether you’re a military personnel, a civilian contractor, or a family member, Yokota Air Force Base has a range of facilities and services to support your needs.
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