Having previously explored the nightlife next to Yokosuka Marine Base, I was curious to see what Fussa, located near the American Yokota Air Base, had to offer. While Yokota is one of the largest military bases in Tokyo, its proximity to the capital city is striking. This base, a symbol of post-war cooperation between the U.S. and Japan, dominates the small town of Fussa. However, my focus wasn’t on politics but on the local nightlife scene. Surprisingly, compared to the vibrant streets near Yokosuka Base, Fussa’s night scene is quite compact.
Yokota serves the Air Force, and the personnel here are known to be well-acquainted with Japan’s culture. While I didn’t interact with anyone directly, I did notice private concerts at some of the bars. Many places seemed to cater to foreigners, and though there were mixed groups of locals and military members, it was a quiet Sunday night, with half of the bars closed. I was told Fridays and Saturdays are the busiest. Eventually, I stepped into a bar with an open door, reminiscent of those near Yokosuka, with spacious interiors and darts games—standard entertainment for these military bars.
Inside, the atmosphere was relaxed, and I was served by a friendly bartender from the Philippines. Like in many military bars, English was widely spoken, and drinks were reasonably priced, with cocktails around 1,000 yen. The Corona beer, paired with a slice of lemon, was a staple, and Mexican dishes like nachos and tacos were popular bar snacks. Fussa’s nightlife may be small, nestled between Fussa Station and East Fussa Station on the JR Line, but its unique blend of cultures makes it worth a visit for those exploring West Tokyo.