U.S. Naval Air Facility Misawa is an associate command on Misawa Air Base, located approximately 400 miles north of Tokyo, adjacent to Misawa City in the Aomori Prefecture.

Misawa offers a tremendous opportunity for a challenging and rewarding military assignment coupled with a unique opportunity to learn about another culture. While the work is demanding, there is plenty of time for exploring the island nation and enjoying the Japanese culture.

Misawa is often referred to as the West Virginia of Japan, and if you have ever seen the beautiful mountains and lush forest of West Virginia, then you would understand why. Misawa is a relatively small community, surrounded by vast farmlands and a beautiful rural landscape. Life here is far from the hustle and bustle associated with the larger cities such as Tokyo and Osaka. Misawa is a camper's paradise and an outdoorsman's dream, but it is also much more than that. Here in our part of the Land of the Rising Sun we have fostered a close relationship with our Japanese hosts.

The weather in Misawa is similar to that of the American Northeast, with hot, humid summers and cold, snowy winters. There is always something to do here, no matter what time of year. In the summertime there are many great beaches to go to, there is fishing, hiking, camping, and much more. With an average yearly snowfall of 120 to 150 inches, the winters in Misawa are a dream come true for skiers and snowboarders, as well as anyone who enjoys that time of the year.

PDF: Newcomers Guide