While spring is growing in Aomori, the northernmost area of mainland Japan, colza flowers are in full bloom near Misawa Air Base. Walking through the spacious colza field of Shizen-en Park will brighten your day.

Attendees participate in arts and crafts during Spouse Appreciation Day at Misawa Air Base, Japan, May 9, 2025

U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Remington Shafer, right, 35th Dental Squadron dental assistant, supports a stretcher transfer during a home station medical response training at Misawa Air Base, Japan, May 8, 2025.

These days, you can find a burger anywhere in Japan – from fast-food franchise to mom-and-pop sandwich shops. But few reveal the secret sauce on Japan’s hamburger history: The U.S. military. 

ew MILITARY STAR® cardmembers can spring into more savings this summer when they receive 15% off first-day purchases.

U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Jared Villalta, 35th Maintenance Squadron aircraft metals technology specialist, uses a computer numerical control mill on a component at Misawa Air Base, Japan, May 1, 2025

Gas prices were five cents higher on average nationwide in April compared to March, according to AAA, but authorized shoppers can get more value from every gallon of gas with a MILITARY STAR® card.

Consumers incurred $12.5 billion in losses to scams and fraud in 2024, a significant 25% increase from the prior year, according to a March report from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).

Military shoppers can deck their furry companions out in their finest red, white and blue and enter for a chance to win a share of $3,000 in prizes in the Patriot Pet Just Say “Treat” Photo Contest from the Army & Air Force Exchange Service and Hills Pet Nutrition.

A 2.5-hour drive from Misawa Air Base will take you to Cape Oma in the Shimokita Peninsula, the northernmost point of Honshu with a scenic landscape of blue ocean of the Tsugaru Strait and white silhouette of Hokkaido.