Chofu Airport

Overview

Chofu Airfield (also known as Chofu Airport) is a small domestic airfield located in the city of Chofu, part of western Tokyo Metropolis, Japan. Operated by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government, it serves primarily as a hub for commuter flights to the Izu Islands, a chain of volcanic islands south of Tokyo. The airfield is also used for general aviation, flight training, and occasionally for business or emergency services. Unlike the major international hubs of Narita and Haneda, Chofu is a compact facility catering to a niche but vital role: connecting the Japanese capital with remote island communities. The main airline operating from here is New Central Airservice (formerly Central Air Service), which flies to destinations such as Hachijojima, Miyakejima, and Oshima. Due to its limited size, the airfield handles only turboprop aircraft and offers a more relaxed, regional travel experience.

Location & Access

Chofu Airfield is situated about 20 kilometers west of central Tokyo, in the city of Chofu. The address is 1-1-1 Fuda, Chofu-shi, Tokyo. Access is straightforward via public transportation or car. The nearest train station is Chofu Station on the Keio Line, which provides direct connections to Shinjuku Station (approximately 20 minutes by express train). From Chofu Station, the airfield is about a 15-minute bus ride or a 20-minute taxi ride. Several bus routes stop at the airport terminal, including services from Chofu Station and nearby areas. For those driving, the airfield has on-site parking and is conveniently located near the Chuo Expressway and Koshu Kaido road. Parking fees are reasonable, and the car park is wheelchair-accessible. The airfield's proximity to central Tokyo makes it a convenient alternative for travellers heading to the Izu Islands, avoiding the longer journey to Haneda if flying to these specific destinations.

Facilities

Chofu Airfield is a compact facility, but it provides essential amenities for passengers. The terminal includes a waiting area with seating. Confirmed facilities include a wheelchair-accessible car park, entrance, and toilet, ensuring accessibility for passengers with mobility needs. Baggage storage is available, allowing travellers to store luggage before or after flights. There are standard toilets, including a baby changing table, making the airfield family-friendly. The terminal also offers a small café or vending machines (common at Japanese airports for snacks and drinks). However, there is no large restaurant or shopping zone; amenities are focused on functionality. The check-in area is simple, with a few counters and flight information displays. The airfield's small size means navigation is easy, and passengers can arrive shortly before departure without the long queues typical of larger airports.

About the Region

Chofu itself is a pleasant residential city with historic sites such as Jindaiji Temple, one of the oldest temples in the Tokyo area, founded in the 7th century. The city is also home to the Chofu Aerospace Center, part of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), which conducts research and testing. The surrounding region of western Tokyo offers parks, shrines, and the Tama River. However, the primary reason travellers use Chofu Airfield is to reach the Izu Islands. This chain of volcanic islands, part of the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, is known for rugged landscapes, hot springs (onsen), hiking trails, and marine activities like diving and fishing. Hachijojima, the farthest destination from Chofu, features subtropical flora and a unique local culture. The airfield thus serves as a gateway for island hopping, combining urban convenience with access to remote nature. The Izu Islands are also popular for seasonal events, such as whale watching in winter and hydrangea viewing in summer.

Practical Information

Chofu Airfield does not operate every day; services are generally available based on flight schedules, which may vary by season or day of the week. The peak hours are around 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m., when most flights are scheduled. Passengers should check the airline's timetable or contact the airfield for specific operating days and hours. The official website (https://www.kouwan.metro.tokyo.lg.jp/rito/tmg-airport/chofu/) provides flight information and updates. For inquiries, the phone number is +81 422-34-4840. The airfield is closed on certain public holidays or during off-peak periods, so it is essential to confirm operational status before visiting. On-site parking is available, and the facility is accessible by public bus from Chofu Station. Baggage storage is useful for those arriving early or waiting for connections. As a small airport, services are limited, but staff are helpful and can provide local information. Security checks are typically quick, and the atmosphere is calm and efficient.