Johnson Town

Johnson Town is a meticulously preserved American-style residential area located in Iruma City, Saitama Prefecture, Japan, approximately 40 kilometers northwest of Tokyo. Originally constructed in the 1940s as housing for American military personnel stationed at the nearby Johnson Air Base, the neighborhood has been transformed into a charming retro district that attracts visitors seeking a nostalgic glimpse of mid-20th century Americana in an unexpected Japanese setting.

The area's historical significance stems from the post-World War II Allied occupation of Japan. When the base closed in 1978, the wooden military houses fell into disrepair until a local developer initiated a restoration project in the early 2000s. Today, approximately 50 buildings have been carefully renovated while maintaining their original architectural character, featuring white clapboard siding, pitched roofs, and front porches that evoke a distinctly American suburban aesthetic from the 1950s and 1960s.

Visitors to Johnson Town experience a unique atmosphere where vintage American architecture meets contemporary Japanese cafe culture. The compact neighborhood, which can be explored on foot in about 30 to 45 minutes, houses an eclectic mix of approximately 40 shops, cafes, restaurants, and galleries occupying the restored homes.

Popular establishments include antique stores, artisan bakeries, specialty coffee shops, and boutiques selling handcrafted goods and vintage items. The area has become particularly popular among photography enthusiasts and couples seeking distinctive backdrops for wedding photos.

Access to Johnson Town is straightforward via public transportation. From Ikebukuro Station in Tokyo, take the Seibu Ikebukuro Line to Iruma-shi Station, a journey of approximately 35 to 40 minutes. The neighborhood is located roughly 15 minutes on foot from the station, or visitors can take a local bus. There is no admission fee to walk through the area, as it functions as a living residential and commercial district.