Overview of Misawa Air Base / Misawa Airport
Misawa Air Base, also known as Misawa Airport, is a United States military installation located in Aomori Prefecture, Japan. It is situated on the northeastern coast of Honshu, approximately 400 miles north of Tokyo. The base plays a vital role in the U.S. defense strategy in the Asia-Pacific region.
Originally established as an Imperial Japanese Navy airfield in the 1930s, Misawa Air Base was seized by American forces during World War II and has been used as a U.S. military installation ever since. It is currently home to the 35th Fighter Wing, which operates F-16 Fighting Falcon and F-35 Lightning II aircraft.
In addition to its military mission, Misawa Air Base also serves as a dual-use airport for civilian air traffic. The airport has a single runway measuring 9,800 feet in length and is capable of handling a variety of aircraft, from small general aviation planes to large commercial airliners.
As one of the largest U.S. military installations in Japan, Misawa Air Base is a significant contributor to the local economy and plays an important role in maintaining the strong alliance between the United States and Japan. The base also provides critical support for regional security and stability, as well as humanitarian assistance and disaster relief efforts throughout the Asia-Pacific region.
Terminals at Misawa Air Base / Misawa Airport
Misawa Air Base and Misawa Airport both have terminals that serve different functions. The terminal at Misawa Air Base is primarily used for military personnel and their families. It features a passenger terminal, cargo terminal, and a terminal for transient aircraft. The passenger terminal offers services such as flight check-in, baggage handling, and customs clearance.
The cargo terminal is responsible for processing all incoming and outgoing cargo, including hazardous materials and oversized shipments. The transient aircraft terminal is used by military and civilian aircraft passing through the area. It provides refueling services, maintenance support, and transient billeting for crew members.
On the other hand, Misawa Airport’s terminal is open to the public and serves as a civilian airport. It has a single runway and handles domestic flights to Tokyo, Sapporo, and other major cities in Japan. The terminal offers passenger services such as flight check-in, baggage claim, and customs clearance.
In addition, the terminal has several restaurants and shops for passengers to enjoy while waiting for their flights. There are also car rental services available at the airport for travelers who want to explore the surrounding areas of Aomori prefecture.
Overall, both terminals at Misawa Air Base and Misawa Airport play important roles in connecting people and goods to different parts of Japan and the world. Whether it is for military or civilian purposes, these terminals ensure safe and efficient transportation for everyone.
Airlines and Destinations
The airlines that operate from Misawa Air Base / Misawa Airport include All Nippon Airways, Japan Airlines, and Air Do.
All Nippon Airways offers domestic flights to Tokyo, Osaka, Sapporo, Okinawa, Nagoya, and Fukuoka, as well as international flights to Shanghai and Beijing in China, and Seoul and Busan in South Korea.
Japan Airlines also offers domestic flights to Tokyo, Osaka, Sapporo, and Fukuoka, as well as international flights to Shanghai in China and Seoul in South Korea.
Air Do operates only domestic flights, with destinations including Tokyo, Sapporo, and Sendai.
There may be seasonal changes in route availability, so it’s always best to check with the airline for the latest information.
Transportation Options at Misawa Air Base/Misawa Airport
Misawa Air Base and Misawa Airport offer a variety of transportation options for service members, civilians, and visitors alike. From shuttle services to car rentals, there are several ways to get around the base and the surrounding area.
The Misawa Air Base Shuttle provides transportation to and from several locations on the base, including the lodging facilities, commissary, and exchange. The shuttle is free of charge and operates on a set schedule throughout the week. This is a convenient option for those who do not have access to a personal vehicle.
For those who require more flexibility in their transportation, car rentals are available through various agencies on base. It is important to note that a Japanese driver’s license or an International Driving Permit is required to operate a vehicle in Japan. Additionally, drivers must be at least 18 years old, and liability insurance is mandatory.
Another option for transportation is the Misawa City Shuttle Bus. This service operates on a set schedule and offers transportation to various locations in Misawa City, such as the train station and shopping centers. The fare is reasonable, and it is a convenient way to explore the local area.
For those who prefer public transportation, there are two train lines that run through Misawa: the JR East Hachinohe Line and the Aoimori Railway Line. These lines provide access to nearby cities and towns, making it easy to travel throughout the Aomori Prefecture.
In addition to these options, taxis are also available on base and throughout the local area. However, they can be more expensive than other forms of transportation and should be used for shorter distances or when other options are not available.
Overall, there are several transportation options available at Misawa Air Base and Misawa Airport. Whether you prefer the convenience of a shuttle, the flexibility of a rental car, or the affordability of public transportation, there is something for everyone. It is important to familiarize yourself with the available options and regulations before making your travel arrangements.
Parking Options at Misawa Air Base / Misawa Airport
Misawa Air Base and Misawa Airport offer various parking options for travelers and visitors. Both short-term and long-term parking are available.
For Misawa Air Base, there are several parking lots situated near the main terminal building, including a covered parking garage. Rates start at $2 per hour for outdoor parking and $3 per hour for covered parking. Daily rates are $10 for outdoor parking and $12 for covered parking. Monthly rates are also available.
For Misawa Airport, there are two parking lots available: the Main Parking Lot and the Overflow Parking Lot. The Main Parking Lot is located directly in front of the terminal building, while the Overflow Parking Lot is located across the street. Rates start at ¥100 for the first 30 minutes, with additional rates of ¥100 for every subsequent 30 minutes. The maximum daily rate is ¥2,000. Monthly rates are also available for regular airport users.
Both Misawa Air Base and Misawa Airport offer accessible parking spaces for those with disabilities. Visitors can also take advantage of free shuttle services from various off-base locations to both Misawa Air Base and Misawa Airport.
Check-In Procedures
Misawa Air Base and Misawa Airport offer multiple options for check-in, including online, self-service kiosks, and traditional counter check-in.
For online check-in, passengers can visit the airline’s website and enter their reservation details to select their seat, print their boarding pass, and even pay any additional fees. This option is often available 24 hours in advance of a flight.
Self-service kiosks are available in the departure terminal of Misawa Airport and allow passengers to check-in, print their boarding pass, and check any luggage that needs to be checked. These kiosks are available for most airlines and can save time at the airport.
For those who prefer traditional counter check-in, airline staff are available at designated counters in the departure terminal. Passengers will need to present their identification and reservation details to receive their boarding pass and check any luggage.
Regardless of the check-in method chosen, it is important to arrive at the airport with enough time to complete the process and pass through security. Passengers should aim to arrive at least 90 minutes before a domestic flight and 2-3 hours before an international flight.
By offering multiple check-in options, Misawa Air Base and Misawa Airport strive to provide a seamless travel experience for all passengers.
Security Procedures and Tips for Misawa Air Base / Misawa Airport
Misawa Air Base / Misawa Airport has strict security measures in place to ensure the safety of passengers and the airport staff. These procedures include screening of all passengers and their belongings, metal detectors, and X-ray machines.
To make your security check go smoothly, arrive at the airport early, remove any metal objects from your pockets, and put them in your carry-on luggage. Also, make sure your liquids are within the size limit and placed in a clear, plastic bag.
Be prepared to remove your shoes, belt, and jacket before going through the metal detector. If you have any medical equipment or special needs, notify the TSA officer before the screening process.
Following these tips will help you breeze through the security check at Misawa Air Base / Misawa Airport.
Customs and Immigration at Misawa Air Base/Airport
Upon arrival at Misawa, passengers will need to fill out a customs declaration form before proceeding to the passport control area. Immigration officers will verify passports and visas, stamp them with an entry stamp and issue the duration of stay permitted in Japan.
For departing passengers, be sure to arrive at the airport with ample time to clear security and customs before departure. After checking in and dropping off luggage, passengers will proceed to Immigration to present their departing passenger card and passports stamped with their entry into Japan. After clearing immigration, passengers will go through security checkpoints before heading to their boarding gate.
Amenities:
– Fitness center with weight room, cardio equipment, and group fitness classes
– Outdoor recreation center offering equipment rentals, travel bookings, and guided tours
– Movie theater showing first-run films and special events
– Bowling alley with 24 lanes, arcade games, and snack bar
– Golf course with 18 holes, driving range, and clubhouse restaurant
– Child development center providing full-day and hourly care for children ages 6 weeks to 5 years old
– Youth center offering after-school programs, summer camps, and activities for children and teens
– Commissary and Exchange for grocery shopping, clothing, electronics, and other retail needs
– Food court with various dining options including fast food, Asian cuisine, and Italian dishes
– Medical clinic with primary care, dental, and optometry services.
Accessibility Services
Misawa Air Base/Misawa Airport is committed to providing equal access to all its passengers, including those with disabilities or mobility issues.
Facilities such as wheelchair ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms are available throughout the airport.
Passengers can also request assistance from airline staff, who are trained to provide aid, such as escorting passengers to their gates or helping with luggage.
Additionally, special parking spaces are designated for those with disabilities and shuttle services are provided for passengers who need transportation within the airport.
Connecting Flights at Misawa Air Base / Misawa Airport: Process and Tips
When catching a connecting flight at Misawa Air Base / Misawa Airport, it is important to first check your itinerary to see if your connection is on the same airline or on a different one.
If it is on the same airline, you will most likely not have to retrieve your checked luggage and can proceed directly to your next gate. However, if it is on a different airline or your itinerary involves multiple airlines, you may have to retrieve your checked luggage and re-check it with the next airline.
It is important to give yourself enough time between flights in case of delays, long security lines, or any other unforeseen circumstances. Generally, 1-2 hours is recommended for domestic connections and 2-3 hours for international connections.
Once you arrive at Misawa Air Base / Misawa Airport, follow the signs to your connecting gates or ask for assistance from airport personnel. Be sure to check the departure time of your next flight and make your way to the gate as soon as possible.
If you have any concerns about making your connecting flight, do not hesitate to ask for assistance from airport staff who are there to help you throughout the process.
Baggage Claim and Lost Property
When arriving at Misawa Air Base/Misawa Airport, passengers must first proceed to the baggage claim area to collect their luggage.
It is important to check that the bags belong to you before leaving the airport.
If your luggage is lost or damaged during your flight, immediately report it to the airport’s lost and found department.
Fill out a lost property report with as much detail as possible, including your contact information, flight details, and description of the lost item.
The airport staff will then begin a search for your luggage and update you on their progress.
In the event that your luggage cannot be located, you may be eligible for compensation from the airline.
Emergency and Medical Facilities
In case of an emergency, call 911 or the Misawa Air Base Emergency Control Center at 226-1911.
For medical emergencies, head to the Misawa Air Base Hospital, which provides 24/7 emergency services.
The hospital also has a pharmacy, laboratory, radiology department, and a variety of specialty clinics.
Off base, the nearest hospital is the Hachinohe Red Cross Hospital, located about 30 minutes away by car.
For non-emergency medical care, the Misawa Air Base Medical Clinic is available for appointments and walk-in care.
In addition to medical facilities, the Misawa Air Base Emergency Control Center is equipped with fire and rescue personnel, hazardous material response teams, and security forces.
Overall, Misawa Air Base is well-prepared to handle any emergency situation with its comprehensive emergency and medical facilities.
Hotel Accommodations
There are several hotel accommodations available within or near Misawa Air Base / Misawa Airport. These hotels offer comfortable and affordable stays for visitors.
1. Hotel Route Inn Misawa – 1.3km from the airport
2. Smile Hotel Misawa – 1.4km from the airport
3. APA Hotel Honcho Misawa Ekimae – 2.8km from the airport
4. Misawa Washington Hotel – 3.7km from the airport
5. Hotel Route-Inn Ominato – 18.9km from the airport
Each of these hotels provides a range of amenities and services, including onsite dining, free Wi-Fi, and access to nearby attractions. Visitors can choose a hotel that best suits their needs and budget.
Useful Tips
When arriving at Misawa Air Base/Misawa Airport, be sure to have all necessary travel documents handy and easily accessible. This includes your passport and any identification or authorization paperwork needed for your visit.
It’s also important to familiarize yourself with the local customs and traditions, such as bowing as a sign of respect and removing your shoes before entering certain buildings. Additionally, be mindful of the language barrier and consider learning some basic Japanese phrases to make communication easier.
When exploring the area, try out the local cuisine, particularly the seafood which is fresh and abundant. Take advantage of the natural beauty by hiking or exploring the surrounding forests, and be sure to check out local festivals and events for a glimpse into the vibrant culture of the region.
Finally, remember to be respectful of the local community and follow all rules and regulations set forth by the base and airport authorities. With these tips in mind, you’re sure to have a pleasant and enjoyable visit to Misawa Air Base/Misawa Airport.
Contact Information
Misawa Air Base/Misawa Airport provides various airport services for the convenience of its passengers. For information on flights, baggage, and lost and found, contact the airline directly. The airport also has a customer service counter located in the terminal building.
For ground transportation services, including taxis and car rentals, there are several options available. You can visit the car rental companies’ offices located in the terminal building or use the airport’s taxi service, which operates 24/7. Additionally, if you require special assistance or have any questions about accessibility at the airport, you can contact the airport’s Accessibility Service Team.
If you need to communicate with the airport’s administration, you can reach them through the airport’s official website or via telephone. Finally, if you have any concerns or complaints, you can file them with the airport’s Customer Service Department, which is open during regular business hours.
Airports Near Misawa Air Base / Misawa Airport
Aside from Misawa Airport, there are other airports in the vicinity that travelers can consider. Here are some options and their distance from Misawa Air Base / Misawa Airport:
- Aomori Airport – approximately 138 km away; accessible via train or bus
- Akita Airport – approximately 160 km away; accessible via train, bus, or taxi
- Hanamaki Airport – approximately 206 km away; accessible via train or bus
- Sapporo New Chitose Airport – approximately 340 km away; accessible via plane, train, or bus
Transportation options vary by airport, but visitors can usually find a combination of trains, buses, taxis, and rental cars to reach their destination. It’s important to research transportation options ahead of time to ensure a smooth travel experience.