How I Became Fascinated with Helicopters in Japan

When I first moved to the area I live in, despite extensive research, I had no idea that there was more than one heliport in the vicinity. So, at first, I was wondering why I was seeing helicopters almost daily. It was only when I started exploring the area by bicycle that I realized that there are three completely separate heliports within cycling distance and a further two within a short drive of my home.

Three of them are related to rescue and emergencies and as such don't have a high profile online. One of them isn't even on maps even now and 20 years ago when we were moving into this house, another two also weren't on maps. That is why I thought there was only one heliport before moving here. Of the five, only two are more for private travel and / or leisure. One of them actually offers a flight to Narita Airport, and it only takes 25 minutes! But you can just imagine the price.

Anyway, with all these heliports in my area, I started getting a kick out of helicopter spotting and over time became fascinated with them too. I still can't name many models, but I can tell the maker and function of a helicopter from a distance more readily now!