Ushihama Station

Ushihama Station Tokyo Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Nearby Attractions Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Nestled in the western suburbs of Tokyo, Ushihama Station is more than just a stop along the JR Ōme Line—it is a gateway to Fussa City, where centuries-old Japanese heritage intertwines with a vibrant American influence. Established in 1942, Ushihama Station played a pivotal role in Tokyo’s western expansion and today serves as a portal to the area’s unique blend of tradition, multiculturalism, and natural beauty. Visitors can expect access to Edo-period historical sites, riverside parks, dynamic festivals, and a bustling community shaped by the nearby Yokota Air Base. This guide provides detailed insights on Ushihama Station visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, travel tips, and an overview of top attractions in the surrounding area, ensuring you make the most of your visit (Japan Experience; Japan Travel; Rethink Tokyo).

Historical Development of Ushihama Station and Fussa City
Visiting Ushihama Station: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility
Exploring Fussa: Key Attractions Near Ushihama Station
Community Life and Seasonal Events
Travel Tips and Practical Information
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Conclusion and Travel Recommendations
References

Historical Development of Ushihama Station and Fussa City

The Birth of Ushihama Station

Ushihama Station opened in 1942, supporting the transformation of Fussa from agricultural lands to a suburban community. Its strategic location on the JR Ōme Line facilitated commuter travel and goods transport, connecting local residents to central Tokyo and accelerating urban development (Japan Experience).

Fussa’s Evolution: From Edo Waterways to Modern Crossroads

During the Edo period (1603–1867), Fussa prospered thanks to the Tamagawa Josui waterway, which enabled agriculture and commerce. Post-WWII, the establishment of Yokota Air Base brought a strong American presence, influencing local businesses and culture, especially on the east side of the city. In contrast, the west side maintains its traditional Japanese character, with historical breweries, temples, and shrines (Japan Travel; Japan Experience).

Visiting Ushihama Station: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility

Station Operating Hours

Ushihama Station is open daily, generally from around 5:00 AM to midnight. These hours align with the JR Ōme Line timetable. Ticket gates and platforms are accessible during these hours, while staffed ticket counters may have more limited schedules (TravelTownsJP).

Ticketing Options

Single Journey Tickets: Purchase at automated machines or staffed counters; fares start at approximately 150 yen, varying by destination.
IC Cards (Suica, PASMO): Rechargeable cards accepted across Tokyo’s public transport. Buy and top up at Ushihama or major nearby stations.
Discount Passes: Available for frequent travelers—check at major stations for eligibility.

Machines offer multilingual support. For tourists, IC cards are highly recommended for ease and speed.

Station Layout and Facilities

Platform: One island platform serving two tracks.
Building: Elevated station structure with access via stairs and elevators.
Facilities: Ticket machines (Japanese/English), accessible restrooms, vending machines, waiting areas, and bicycle parking. Coin lockers are not available—store luggage at nearby Fussa or Tachikawa stations if needed.

Accessibility

Ushihama Station is equipped for universal access, with elevators, tactile paving, and accessible restrooms. If you require assistance, station staff are available to help.

Exploring Fussa: Key Attractions Near Ushihama Station

American-Japanese Cultural Fusion

Base Side Street: Just east of Ushihama Station, this area is renowned for American-themed cafes, retro shops, and lively entertainment venues, reflecting the influence of the adjacent Yokota Air Base (Japan Travel).

Traditional Japanese Heritage

Sake Breweries: The Ishikawa and Seishu Kasen breweries, dating back to the Edo period, offer tours and tastings highlighting centuries-old sake-making traditions.
Tamagawa Josui Waterway: Scenic paths for walking and cycling, lined with cherry blossoms in spring.
Fussa Shinmei Shrine: A historic Shinto site over 1,000 years old, open daily 6:00 AM–5:00 PM, hosting seasonal festivals.

Notable Landmarks

Former Yamaju Tamura Family House: A preserved Edo-period residence.
Seiganin Temple: Known for tranquil gardens and annual cultural events.

Natural Attractions

Tama River Parks: Riverside spaces perfect for picnics, cherry blossom viewing, and summer barbecues.
Shimaya no Taki Waterfall: A serene spot within walking distance.
Mount Mitake and Okutama: Accessible via the JR Ōme Line, these areas offer hiking, river sports, and panoramic vistas (Adventure Backpack).

Museums and Markets

Fussa City Local Museum: Learn about local history from the Edo period to the present. Open Tuesday–Sunday, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM.
Fussa Farmers’ Market: Regularly held near the station, featuring fresh produce and crafts.

Community Life and Seasonal Events

Fussa Tanabata Festival: Held in August, this colorful event near Ushihama Station features elaborate decorations, food stalls, and performances, drawing crowds from across western Tokyo.

Fussa Fireworks Festival: Every July, the Tama River sky is illuminated by over 5,000 fireworks, complemented by lively riverfront celebrations (Go Tokyo).

Sakura (Cherry Blossom) Festival: In early April, the Tama River banks become a hanami hotspot, with food stalls and evening illuminations.

Other seasonal highlights include New Year’s shrine celebrations, autumn harvest festivals, and frequent local matsuri.

Travel Tips and Practical Information

Best Visiting Seasons: Spring (cherry blossoms) and autumn (foliage) offer pleasant weather and scenic beauty. Summer is popular for festivals; winters are cold but often clear.
Tickets and Transit: Use IC cards for seamless travel on the JR network. Trains run every 10–20 minutes during the day.
Language: English signage is limited; a translation app is helpful.
Accessibility: Elevators are available, but some nearby attractions may have limited access.
Wi-Fi: Public Wi-Fi is not widely available; consider renting a pocket Wi-Fi or SIM card (TsunaguJapan).
Safety: The area is safe, with emergency call buttons on platforms and helpful staff.
Local Etiquette: Be quiet on trains, queue properly, and avoid eating on board.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What are Ushihama Station’s operating hours?
A: Roughly 5:00 AM to midnight, following JR Ōme Line schedules.

Q: How do I buy tickets?
A: Use automated ticket vending machines or IC cards (Suica, PASMO).

Q: Is Ushihama Station accessible for travelers with disabilities?
A: Yes, with elevators, tactile paving, and accessible restrooms.

Q: Are there lockers at Ushihama Station?
A: No, but lockers are available at Fussa and Tachikawa stations.

Q: What are the best seasonal events?
A: The Fussa Tanabata Festival in August and Fireworks Festival in July.

Q: How do I reach Base Side Street?
A: A 10-minute walk east from Ushihama Station.

Q: Is there free Wi-Fi?
A: Not at Ushihama Station—rent a pocket Wi-Fi or SIM card.

Conclusion and Travel Recommendations

Ushihama Station is a unique entryway to Fussa City’s historical, multicultural, and natural offerings. Its strategic location on the JR Ōme Line, accessible facilities, and proximity to both traditional and modern attractions make it ideal for travelers seeking a deeper Tokyo experience. Leverage IC cards for easy transit, explore during seasonal festivals, and immerse yourself in the blend of old and new that defines Fussa’s charm. For the latest information and real-time travel updates, consider using resources like the Audiala app. Ushihama Station is more than just a transit point—it’s your starting line to the stories and sights of Tokyo’s western edge (Japan Travel; Japan Experience; Rethink Tokyo).

References

For detailed journey planning, download the Audiala app, explore our related guides on Tokyo’s neighborhoods, and connect with us on social media for updates and inspiration.