Feel the Breeze of the Tama River and History! “Chofu” GPS Art✨
This 14km GPS art course takes you through the heart of Chofu City, drawing the name “Chofu” as you walk or run. Starting near Chofu City Hall, the course guides you past Chofu Station, residential neighborhoods, the Chofu City Local History Museum, and the Chofu City Cultural Hall, offering a blend of daily life and cultural discovery.
The name “Chofu” dates back to ancient times, derived from “Chofu,” a type of cloth that was once offered as tax to the imperial court. This origin reflects the city’s deep-rooted connection to textile production and trade.
Geographically, the Tama River flows along the southern edge of the city, nurturing fertile land and shaping the lifestyle of its people. During the Edo period, Chofu prospered as a post town on the Koshu Highway, while in modern times it developed a reputation as a hub for cinema and culture. Today, it is also known as the hometown of manga artist Shigeru Mizuki, creator of GeGeGe no Kitaro.
Along the course, participants can enjoy historical landmarks, cultural facilities, and the natural scenery of Tama River. It is not just a physical challenge but also a journey through the stories and traditions of Chofu.
At the end, the GPS trace reveals the characters for “Chofu” — a symbolic artwork representing the city’s nature, history, and culture. With its accessible 14km distance, this course is ideal for both sightseeing and an active exploration of the city.
DETAIL (EXTERNAL LINK)
A PIONEER IN GPS ART.
1st work was authorized by Guinness World Records as “the Largest GPS Drawing”.
He is the only Japanese person to be featured in a Google documentary as an innovator. He is fascinated by the idea of drawing with GPS and has published more than 2,500 works.
