Fuchu, city in central Japan on central Honshu Island, in Tokyo Prefecture, on the Tama River about 23 km (about 14 mi) west of downtown Tokyo. Once part of an important agricultural area that served the Tokyo market, Fuchu is now primarily a residential and industrial center, with several large factories producing machinery, electronic equipment, and beverages. Fuchu is served by three rail lines, and the Chuo Expressway runs across the southern part of the city. The Koshu Kaido, one of the five historic highways that radiated from Edo (now Tokyo) to surrounding provinces during the Edo period (1603-1867), has been modernized and runs through the center of Fuchu. The primary business district is near the railway station of the Keio Line. Fuchu is home to the Okunitama Shrine, a historic religious shrine that attracts many visitors. Fuchu is also known for its Tokyo Race Course, a popular horse-racing facility built in 1933. A park with sports facilities occupies the riverfront of the Tama River. Other features of Fuchu are a military base of Japan's Self-Defense Forces, Fuchu Prison, and Tama Cemetery, one of the largest cemeteries in Tokyo Prefecture. Fuchu's history dates to the 7th century, when it was the administrative center of Musashi Province, one of 15 provinces that were established in central Japan in AD 646. Fuchu's name means “capital” or “administrative center.” Population (1999) 217,191.Microsoft® Encarta® Online Encyclopedia 2001
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