Chofu Mayoral Election 2026: Four Candidates Clash for First New Mayor in 24 Years
Mayor Takaki Nagatomo, who has led Chofu city for six terms and 24 years, has announced his retirement, and a new mayor will be elected for the first time in 24 years at the July 5 vote.
Chofu Mayor Takaki Nagatomo announced in May 2026 that he will not run in the next mayoral election to be voted on July 5, and will retire at the end of his term.
Since his first election win in 2002, Nagatomo has led Chofu city government for six terms spanning 24 years.
During his tenure, he eliminated "stuck crossings" through the underground rerouting of the Keio Line between Shiosaki and Nishi-Chofu stations, and also oversaw the development of the Chofu Station plaza that fully opened in May of this year.
With the retirement of a mayor who dramatically reshaped the city,
this election is virtually certain to produce Chofu's first new mayor in 24 years.
Four Candidates Step Forward
Four candidates have announced they will run in this election.
- Takashi Isobe (46), current city council member, independent
- Koji Inoue (49), current city council member, independent
- Yasuko Kinoshita (53), independent
- Akihiro Hayashi (65), former Tokyo Metropolitan Assembly member, independent
Four candidates with wide-ranging backgrounds — from sitting city council members to a former metropolitan assembly member — are set to clash.
June 20: Public Debate at the Station Plaza
A public debate hosted by the Chofu Junior Chamber of Commerce was held on June 20 at the Chofu Station plaza.
Questions collected in advance from residents were put to all candidates, sparking policy debates on a wide range of topics including urban development, childcare, welfare, and education.
Free admission drew many residents to the venue.
It was a valuable opportunity to hear directly from each candidate about their vision.
Footage from the debate is expected to be released later on YouTube.
Voting Day is July 5: Chofu Residents' Votes Will Shape History
The election schedule is as follows.
- Announcement date: June 28 (Sun)
- Voting day: July 5 (Sun)
Chofu has been led by the same mayor for 24 long years.
Who wins the July 5 vote will determine the next era of Chofu city.
Eligible voters are encouraged to head to the polls.
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