こんにちは、_hiroyuki.taです。今回は、東京都心部から調布飛行場までハーレー スポーツグライドでツーリングしてきました。調布飛行場とはどんなところなのか、どうやって行くのか、どんな見どころがあるのか、バイク駐車場はどうなっているのかなど、詳しくレポートしていきます。
What is Chofu Airport?
Chofu Air Base is one of the oldest airfields in Japan, located in Chofu City, Tokyo. Established in 1922, this airfield once served as a base for the Japanese Army and the home base for Japan Airlines. Currently, it is managed by the Tokyo Metropolitan Bureau of Ports and Harbors, and is mainly used for regular flights to remote islands, charter flights, and small aircraft such as Cessna planes. There is also an Aviation Science Museum within the airport, where you can enjoy aircraft and space-related exhibits and experience facilities.
Route to Chofu Airport
I toured on a Harley Sport Glide from central Tokyo to Chofu Airport. Below is the route I took.
- From central Tokyo, take the Metropolitan Expressway No. 4 Shinjuku Line and exit from the Shinjuku exit.
- Proceed west on Route 20 and drive along Koshu Kaido for a while.
- From Route 20, take Route 246 and head south.
- From Route 246, take Route 411 and head west.
- From Route 411, return to Route 20 and head west.
- From National Route 20, turn right at the Chofu Airfield entrance intersection and proceed toward Chofu Airfield.
- Turn left at the Nishimachi intersection, approximately 1.5km from the Chofu Airfield entrance intersection, and arrive at Chofu Airfield.
This route was about 25km and took about 40 minutes. Along the way, you may experience intermittent traffic jams on Koshu Kaido and National Route 246. The road is narrow, making it difficult for large bikes like Harleys to pass through. You can also enjoy the scenery along the Tama River on National Route 411.
The charm of Chofu Airport, Tokyo
Tokyo Chofu Air Base is the only airport in Tokyo. There are regular flights to remote islands such as Izu Oshima, Niijima, and Miyakejima, making it easy to enjoy an island trip from the city center.
The terminal building at Chofu Airport was just renovated in 2013 and is a clean and comfortable space. On the second floor, there is a spacious rest area and an observation deck with a spacious feel. From here, you can see up close the take-off, landing, and maintenance of small airplanes.
Additionally, you can see airplanes from Musashinonomori Park, which is adjacent to Chofu Airport. The park has lawns, playground equipment, and a pond, making it recommended for families and couples.
Chofu Airport also has a cafe where you can enjoy delicious food and coffee while watching the planes. The name is “Propeller Cafe”. This is located at the end of the operator’s passageway between the terminal building and the second parking lot. Please note that you will need to fill out an airport land entry card at the entrance gate.
Propeller Cafe’s hearty menu items such as the Propeller Burger and Loco Moco are popular. From inside the store, you can see the airplanes stored in the hangar. Some of the airplanes have famous characters drawn on them.
You can actually touch an airplane in the hangar next to the propeller cafe. You can freely enter the area separated by poles. It is also possible to take photos. We also have uniforms for children, so why not take some memorable photos with them?
Chofu Airport is close to the city center and is easily accessible. Recommended not only for airplane enthusiasts, but also for those who want to enjoy sights they don’t normally get to see. Please come and visit us at least once.
Motorcycle parking lot at Chofu Airport
Chofu Airport does not have a dedicated parking lot for motorcycles, but you can park your motorcycle in the parking lot for general vehicles. There is a bicycle parking lot next to the terminal building, and you can also park your motorcycle in the space beyond it. Unlike Narita Airport or Haneda Airport, it is of course free.
Summary
This time, I toured on a Harley Sports Glide from central Tokyo to Chofu Airport. Chofu Airfield is a historical airport, but it is also a wonderful spot where you can enjoy modern facilities and gourmet food. It was a perfect course for a motorcycle trip, as we watched planes take off and land and took a break at the airport cafe. Motorcycle parking was also cheap and convenient. Not only people living in Tokyo, but also people from nearby prefectures can easily visit. Please take a tour on a Harley Sports Glide to Chofu Airport, which is recommended not only for aviation fans but also for families and couples.
The above was sent to you by _hiroyuki.ta. Look forward to the next touring report!
※調布飛行場の英語名はChofu Airportです。
