Moving to Yokota AB

[BecksterGal]

Hi, everyone. I'm new here. My name's Becca, and my husband is in the Air Force. I have a 15-month-old son. We received orders to Yokota AB, and will be moving there this May. Everyone I have talked to says we will love it over there, and I'm excited to go, but I'm afraid of the culture shock. Also, of earthquakes. What do the people of Japan think of having the military over there? I'd like to know if anyone, military or otherwise, can offer some general advice.

Thank you so much.
:-)

[Bob in Iowa]

Hi Becca,

I spent 5 years at Yokota in the 70's, and the last time I visited there was 1991, so I can't give you any current information, but I will tell you that the location is teriffic. Yokota is only about an hour away from Tokyo by train, and on a clear day you can see Fuji-san from the base.

While the base itself will probably resemble more of a small American city around a military base. A marvelous country of a fascinating people, with a rich history and most intriguing culture lie just on the other side of the gates. I would encourage you to study the Japanese language while you are there (language courses are probably available on base), and to venture out from the base early and often.

Best of luck to you, and welcome to the forum. Herein you can learn a lot about Japan before you go.

--Bob :-)

[DoctorP]

I have to echo what Bob said...Yokota is defiinitely one of the best AF bases you will ever go to! Not to mention that it is the space A hub...that means that you can go almost anywhere in asia for a great getaway! I think that you will love it there! Tokyo Disney is a great day trip and you can get discount tickets on base, not to mention all of the local attractions that are just a train ride away!

[epigene]

Hello, Becca!

I'm Japanese and live rather close to Yokota (30 minutes by train). I've been to the base before and knew some people there. What Bob and CC1 say are all true. I'm sure you'll have fun here. The Japanese are very friendly--as long as you are friendly with them, too. Never mind if you don't know the language yet. There will be a lot of people who want to help.

Friendliness and a smile go a long way.... (sounds like something from the Armed Forces radio station... :-) )

[BecksterGal]

Thank you so much for your replies! I'm excited about coming to Yokota. I'm so glad to hear the good news about the base.

Everyone I talk to just says how much they loved it over there when they went. The only thing I worry about is missing my family, but hopefully they'll be able to come visit.

I am so excited about learning about the Japanese culture and language. I know Japan is a beautiful country, I know I will like the people. I hear politeness is part of their culture. That will be wonderful! People aren't that polite at the base at which we're currently stationed!

What are some other day trips? I'm excited about going to Tokyo Disney. :wave:

[mdchachi]

I'd be surprised if you actually learned much language or culture on an American base while you're busy raising a child. But, anyway, it will be a great experience. Be prepared to be accosted with people wanting to take pictures with you and your baby, especially if he is blond. You'll get used to the earthquakes just like you get used to lightening storms or tornado warnings in other parts of the world.

[Mike Cash]

You should also take advantage of the support infrastructure the Air Force has put in place for military families. The Family Service Center will be a better and more up-to-date source of useful information and aid than we could ever hope to be. Also, you may wish to visit Yokota's website at www.yokota.af.mil

[Buntaro]

I spent some time at Yokota. I believe that they have a tour company that takes tours out of Yokota to various places. (Can anyone verify this for me?) (I never took tours because I speak Japanese and I always took the trains by myself.) As time goes by, you will be able to take the train to Tokyo without a guide. I promise you it will be a lot of fun. There are many, many fun things to do in Tokyo. I wish I was still there!

[DoctorP]

Yes Buntaro you are right. They do still run tours from the base and they are somewhat discounted from the fare that it would cost for you to go out locally and set up the same tour.