Aerial view of the Tachikawa Aircraft Company in Japan under attack by U.S. Navy carrier aircraft in February 1945 during World War II

Tachikawa Airfield

Tachikawa Airfield Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Tokyo Historical Sites Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Tachikawa Airfield, located in the western suburbs of Tokyo, is a site of profound historical significance. Once a pioneering aviation hub and a focal point for both military and civilian activities, the airfield encapsulates Japan’s transition through modernization, war, occupation, and peaceful urban regeneration. Although the airfield is now an active Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF) base with limited public access, its legacy endures in adjacent cultural and recreational spaces, notably Showa Kinen Park and the vibrant Faret Tachikawa art district. This guide provides comprehensive details on Tachikawa Airfield’s history, practical visiting information, ticketing, accessibility, transportation, and highlights of nearby attractions, ensuring an enriching experience for history enthusiasts and travelers alike. For the latest updates, consult the official Tachikawa City website and Showa Kinen Park website (Curtiss Commando; Japan Experience; Michael John Grist; Matcha).

Early Development and Prewar Years (1922–1945)
Allied Occupation and Cold War Era (1945–1977)
Post-Return Transformation and Modern Use (1977–Present)
Visiting Tachikawa Airfield and Showa Kinen Park
Historical Significance and Legacy
Key Dates and Milestones
Notable Units and Operations
Tachikawa Airfield in Contemporary Tokyo
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Access and Transportation
Facilities and Amenities
Weather and Seasonal Considerations
Accessibility and Tourist Support
Safety and Etiquette
Nearby Attractions
Summary and Conclusion
References

Early Development and Prewar Years (1922–1945)

Tachikawa Airfield opened in 1922 as one of Japan’s earliest and most vital aviation centers (Curtiss Commando). Initially a military base, it quickly assumed a dual role, supporting Japan Air Transport’s first scheduled commercial flights to Osaka in 1929. Civilian operations shifted to Haneda in 1933, and Tachikawa became a major aircraft manufacturing and training site, producing thousands of planes and hosting the Army’s air academy (Curtiss Commando).

During WWII, Tachikawa was a center for aviation research and technological development, including testing captured Allied aircraft (historynet.com). The airfield was heavily bombed in 1945, reflecting its strategic importance.

Allied Occupation and Cold War Era (1945–1977)

After the war, U.S. forces occupied Tachikawa, transforming it into a logistics and transport hub during the Korean and Vietnam wars (Curtiss Commando). The base’s limited runway led to operational challenges, highlighted by the 1953 C-124 Globemaster II crash that claimed 129 lives (Japan Experience; michaeljohngrist.com).

Efforts to expand the base triggered the 1957 Sunagawa Riots, a major episode of local resistance that ultimately led to the cancellation of expansion plans (Japan Experience). As Tokyo’s urbanization increased and aviation technology advanced, Tachikawa’s military importance waned, leading to the return of the base to Japan in 1977 (liquisearch.com).

Post-Return Transformation and Modern Use (1977–Present)

Since its return, Tachikawa Airfield has been repurposed for Japanese government and emergency use, hosting the JGSDF, Tokyo Fire Department, and Coast Guard. Much of the former airfield was transformed into Showa Kinen Park, a national park famous for its seasonal blooms, gardens, and recreational facilities (Matcha). Remnants of the airfield, such as runways and hangars, remain visible reminders of its aviation legacy.

The Faret Tachikawa art district, featuring over 100 public artworks, reflects the area’s postwar cultural revitalization (atlasobscura.com).

Visiting Tachikawa Airfield and Showa Kinen Park

Showa Kinen Park

Hours: Open year-round, typically 9:30 AM–5:00 PM (seasonal variations apply).
Closed: Mondays (except on national holidays).
Admission: Adults (15–64) ¥450, Seniors (65+) ¥210, Children under 15 free.
Access: 15-minute walk or short bus ride from Tachikawa Station.
Facilities: Wheelchair-accessible paths, restrooms, and rentals.

Tachikawa Airfield and Garrison Museum

Access: The airfield is a functioning military installation; general public access is restricted.
Museum: The Tachikawa Garrison Museum offers limited public entry, typically on select weekdays or special occasions. Admission is free; verify hours in advance (AviationMuseum.eu).
Photography: Permitted only in public areas; prohibited in military zones.

Special Events

Tachikawa Air Show: Annual event (usually in autumn), with static and aerial displays. Admission is generally free but may require prior registration. Check official sources for details (Wikipedia).

Historical Significance and Legacy

Tachikawa Airfield is emblematic of Japan’s evolution through the 20th century. From pioneering commercial flights to serving as a strategic military hub, enduring wartime devastation, and ultimately fostering a thriving public park and art district, Tachikawa’s story mirrors broader national transformations (Japan Experience; Matcha). The Sunagawa Riots and tragic air disasters highlight the site’s complex social and political legacy.

Key Dates and Milestones

1922: Airfield opens (Curtiss Commando)
1929: Civilian flights to Osaka begin
1933: Civilian operations move to Haneda
1939: Military air academy established
1945: Bombed by USAAF; U.S. occupation begins
1953: C-124 crash kills 129
1957: Sunagawa Riots halt expansion
1977: Base returned to Japan
1983: Showa Kinen Park opens (Matcha)

Notable Units and Operations

1503rd AAF Base Unit (1946–1948)
Japan Air Material Area (JAMA) (1947–1949)
54th Troop Carrier Wing, 375th Troop Carrier Group (1945–1946)

These units underscore Tachikawa’s significance as a logistical and support center during the occupation and early Cold War (Curtiss Commando).

Tachikawa Airfield in Contemporary Tokyo

Today, Tachikawa is a vibrant urban district blending historical sites, modern infrastructure, and green spaces. The preserved airfield elements, Showa Kinen Park, and Faret Tachikawa art district offer visitors a multi-layered view of Tokyo’s past and present (Matcha).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I visit Tachikawa Airfield at any time?
A: No, general access is restricted. Public entry is possible mainly during special events or limited museum hours.

Q: Are tickets required for Showa Kinen Park?
A: Yes. Adults: ¥450, Seniors: ¥210, Children under 15: free.

Q: How do I get to Tachikawa from central Tokyo?
A: Take the JR Chuo Line to Tachikawa Station; Showa Kinen Park is a short walk or bus ride away.

Q: Are there guided tours?
A: Occasionally, local groups offer guided history tours. Check the Tachikawa City website for updates.

Q: When is the best time to visit?
A: Spring (cherry blossoms) and autumn (foliage) are most popular.

Access and Transportation

Rail: JR Chuo, Nambu, and Ome Lines, plus Tama Monorail connect directly to Tachikawa Station (Japan Experience).
Airport: Haneda (39.5 km) and Narita (88.8 km) airports offer access via train and bus.
Local Transit: Buses and taxis are readily available; all public areas are well signposted.

Facilities and Amenities

Shopping: GranDuo Tachikawa, Takashimaya, and IKEA are nearby.
Dining: Diverse options from casual izakaya to international cuisine.
Accommodation: Multiple hotels near the station with modern amenities.
Visitor Support: The Tachikawa Tourist Information Corner (at the station) offers English assistance and free maps (Japan Experience).

Weather and Seasonal Considerations

June: Warm and humid, with average highs of 24°C/76°F and frequent rain (Climate Data).
Spring/Autumn: Best for outdoor activities and flowers.

Accessibility and Tourist Support

Wheelchair Access: Available at the station, Showa Kinen Park, and shopping centers.
English Signage: Common in public spaces.
Information Points: Staff at tourist counters can assist with directions and recommendations (Go Tokyo).

Safety and Etiquette

Photography: Permitted in public areas; prohibited in restricted/military zones.
Behavior: Respect all posted regulations and do not enter restricted areas.
Events: Follow crowd control measures and respect families and event staff.

Nearby Attractions

Showa Kinen Park: Expansive gardens, museums, and seasonal events.
Faret Tachikawa Art District: Over 100 public artworks.
Tachikawa City Museum: Local history exhibits.
Tama Zoological Park: Family-friendly.
Suwa Shrine & Tamagawa Josui: Historic and scenic spots.
Access: All easily reachable from Tachikawa Station (Japan Experience).

Summary and Conclusion

Tachikawa Airfield stands as a compelling Tokyo historical site, reflecting Japan’s journey from militarization to peaceful community development. While direct access to the airfield is restricted, visitors can explore its history through Showa Kinen Park, the Tachikawa Garrison Museum (when open), and the dynamic art and cultural scene. Excellent transport links, modern amenities, and seasonal events make Tachikawa a rewarding destination for those interested in Japanese history and contemporary urban culture. Always consult official resources for the latest visiting hours and events (Curtiss Commando; Michael John Grist; Japan Experience; Matcha).