Ofū
| Ofū 王不 |
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| Metropolitian city | |||
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| Nickname(s): The Cowherb Garden | |||
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| Country |  Sanpantul |
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| Prefecture | Kipei | ||
| Founded | as Cowherb, 1580 AN | ||
| Government | |||
| • Mayor | Sueoka Tetsuo (Democrats, since 1740 AN) | ||
| Population (1742 AN) | |||
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| Time zone | +5 CMT | ||
| Area code(s) | 3 | ||
| Website | ofu.gov.sp | ||
Ofū (Sangunese: 王不, translit.: Ofū?) (Common Tongue: Cowherb) is the second-largest city in Sanpantul and serves as one of the nation's most important commercial and maritime hubs. Located at the southern tip of East Sandwich Island, Ofū stretches from its bustling coastline far into the island’s interior, encompassing six special counties. As of 1742 AN, the metropolitan area has a population exceeding 3.2 million. The southern section of the city is dominated by the vast Ofū Port, one of the largest in the nation, while the nearby island of Birashima lies just offshore.
Etymology
The name Ofū is derived from the city's original name in Common Tongue, Cowherb, a reference to the expansive cattle pastures that once defined the region. The present name in Sanpanese script (王不) is a phonetic adaptation rather than a direct translation.
History
Early settlement
The site of modern Ofū was originally a medium-sized agricultural village renowned for cattle breeding and dairy production. During the early colonial period, when the region was part of the Nova England territories, the Old Port served as a crucial supply point for feed and meat to various outer colonies. Its strategic location on East Sandwich Island made it an essential stopover for ships traveling between the eastern and western seaways.
Natopian and Coastal period
Under Natopia and later Coastalis administration, the settlement retained its rural character, remaining the only town of significant size in the Sandwich Isles. While it lacked large-scale urban development, its port remained a modest but vital trading station.
War of Independence
During the Sanpantul War of Independence, Ofū played a key logistical role. Although not yet the official capital, it served as the provisional administrative center before the formation of the national government. Military shipments, food supplies, and communications were coordinated through Ofū’s port facilities.
Sanpantul era
Following independence, Ofū grew rapidly, becoming the largest city in Sanpantul for a time. Its prominence was later eclipsed by Kipei, which emerged as the political and economic capital. Nevertheless, Ofū retained its importance as a maritime trade and industrial center, adapting its economy from traditional agriculture to modern manufacturing and logistics.
Geography
Ofū is situated on the southern coast of East Sandwich Island, bordered by rolling inland plains to the north and the South Cibolan Sea to the south. The metropolitan area is divided into six special counties, each with its own administrative authority. The coastal plain hosts the city’s dense urban core, while suburban and industrial districts extend inland.
The nearby island of Birashima lies just south of the main port and is connected by regular ferry services. The surrounding waters are deep enough to accommodate large container ships, making the port a vital link in Sanpantul’s shipping network.
Economy
Ofū remains one of Sanpantul’s foremost commercial hubs. The city is a leading exporter of meat, dairy products, and processed animal feed—continuing its centuries-old agricultural tradition—while also hosting major industrial complexes that produce machinery, processed food, and maritime equipment. Ofū Port handles a significant share of the nation’s imports and exports, particularly bulk goods and containerized freight.
Culture
The city is known for hosting the annual Ofū Botanical Fair, a popular event showcasing ornamental plants, agricultural innovations, and horticultural traditions. Ofū is also home to the imperial summer palace, Ofūkyūden, which is open to the public during select months. In sports, Ofū was one of the host cities for the 2020 EMU Championship, including the group stage and semi-final matches.
Transport
Ofū is served by an extensive road and rail network connecting it to other parts of East Sandwich Island and the Sanpantul mainland. The city’s international ferry terminal operates routes to domestic and regional ports, while its rail freight yards link the port directly to inland distribution centers.
Demographics
The population of Ofū is ethnically diverse, though the majority are of Sanpanese descent. Migrant communities from other parts of Micras, particularly Xiangi and Thraci regions, have contributed to the city’s cultural mix.
