Chofu, Residential suburb in west Tokyo, Japan
Chofu is a residential city in the western part of the metropolitan area, combining parks, temples, and green spaces along several rivers. The streets are quiet and lined with low-rise houses, while larger shopping districts cluster around train stations.
The area developed from the 17th century as a post station along the old Koshu Road, which carried travelers and merchants westward. After the war, the city grew as a commuter suburb for workers heading to the center.
The city is home to a working film studio where period drama sets have been used for decades. Visitors can walk through reconstructed Edo-era streets and see where samurai films are made.
The city lies about 12 miles (20 kilometers) west of the city center and is well connected by several train lines. Visitors can explore most sights on foot or by bicycle, as the area is flat and easy to navigate.
A small shrine by the river maintains a centuries-old tradition where visitors float paper boats on the water. The boats drift slowly downstream and are believed to carry wishes and prayers.
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