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Historical places #2 in Tokorozawa, Saitama

Tokorozawa Aviation Memorial Park

4.2 · 6,653 reviews
Spacious and educational
Tokorozawa Aviation Memorial Park, 1 Chome-13 Namiki, Tokorozawa, Saitama 359-0042, Japan
Interesting facts
1

The park was built on the former site of the Imperial Japanese Army Tokorozawa Airfield.

2

The first flight in Japan took place at this precise location on March 25, 1911, piloted by Yoshitoshi Tokugawa.

3

The onsite aviation museum features a flight simulator that allows visitors to experience piloting a light aircraft.

4

A portion of the park grounds is designated as a disaster prevention base for the Saitama Prefecture region.

5

The park serves as a migration stop for various bird species, making it a local hub for birdwatching.

6

The YS-11 transport aircraft displayed outdoors is a significant example of post-war Japanese aviation engineering.

7

The park's layout reflects the original runway orientation of the historical airfield.

8

Saiho-an teahouse is designed in the classic Sukiya-zukuri architectural style.

Overview

Tokorozawa Aviation Memorial Park sits on the site of Japan's first airfield, established in 1911. The park features the Tokorozawa Aviation Museum, which displays restored aircraft including a Curtiss Type D and a YS-11. Its expansive grounds encompass numerous sports facilities, including tennis courts, a baseball field, and a gymnasium. The site incorporates traditional elements like the Saiho-an teahouse, situated within a Japanese-style garden. It serves as a large-scale municipal green space providing both historical education and active recreational areas. Aviation history is highlighted by static displays of retired aircraft installed throughout the park grounds.

Photo spot

In front of the C-46 transport plane located in the outdoor exhibition area.

Insider tips

Bring a picnic mat to enjoy the large lawn areas near the main fountain.

Check the museum's schedule for special indoor flight demonstrations of radio-controlled model aircraft.

Walk the perimeter trail if you are looking for a longer, shaded route for exercise.

What to avoid

Attempting to climb on the static aircraft displays located throughout the park.

Good to know

The aviation museum is closed on Mondays, or on Tuesday if Monday is a national holiday.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
2-3 hours
Best time to visit
Spring during cherry blossom season or mid-autumn for mild walking weather.
Address
Tokorozawa Aviation Memorial Park, 1 Chome-13 Namiki, Tokorozawa, Saitama 359-0042, Japan
35.798, 139.473
Get directions
Details
Key exhibitsYS-11 transport plane and historical flight simulators
Shade & rest areasExtensive wooded groves and sheltered teahouse garden

Frequently asked

Plan for about 2-3 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Spring during cherry blossom season or mid-autumn for mild walking weather..

In front of the C-46 transport plane located in the outdoor exhibition area.

Close by you'll find Tokorozawa Aviation Museum, Tokorozawa City Hall, Belluna Dome.