Akita Prefecture

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Akita Prefecture 秋田県
Prefecture
Flag of Akita Prefecture Flag Seal
Location of Akita Prefecture in Japan
Country	Japan
Region	Tōhoku
Capital	Akita
Area
• Total	11,637.54 km2 (4,493.28 sq mi)
Population  (October 1, 2020)
• Total	966,000
• Density	83/km2 (210/sq mi)
Time zone	UTC+09:00 (JST)
ISO 3166 code	JP-05
Website	www.pref.akita.lg.jp

Akita Prefecture (秋田県, Akita-ken) is a prefecture located in the Tōhoku region of Japan. The capital is the city of Akita.

Geography

Akita Prefecture is situated on the northwestern coast of Honshu, the largest island of Japan. It is bordered by the Sea of Japan to the west, Aomori Prefecture to the north, Iwate Prefecture to the east, and Yamagata Prefecture to the south. The Oga Peninsula is a prominent geographical feature of the prefecture.

The prefecture is characterized by its mountainous terrain, with the Ou Mountains running along its eastern border. The Dewa Mountains also traverse the region. The Yoneshiro River and the Omono River are significant waterways in Akita.

History

Akita Prefecture has a rich history that dates back to ancient times. It was originally part of the Dewa Province and later became part of the Ugo Province. During the Edo period, the area was controlled by various samurai clans, including the Satake clan.

In the Meiji period, the modern prefecture system was established, and Akita Prefecture was officially formed in 1871.

Economy

The economy of Akita Prefecture is diverse, with significant contributions from agriculture, forestry, and fishing. The region is known for its production of rice, particularly the Akita Komachi variety. Akita is also famous for its sake breweries.

The prefecture has a growing manufacturing sector, with industries such as electronics, machinery, and chemicals. Additionally, Akita has potential for renewable energy, particularly geothermal energy.

Culture

Akita Prefecture is renowned for its cultural heritage and traditional festivals. The Kanto Festival is one of the most famous events, featuring skillful balancing of long bamboo poles with lanterns. The Namahage ritual, where men dressed as ogres visit homes to ward off evil spirits, is another notable tradition.

The region is also known for its onsen (hot springs), with popular destinations such as Nyuto Onsen and Tamagawa Onsen.

Education

Akita Prefecture is home to several higher education institutions, including Akita University and Akita International University. These institutions offer a range of programs and contribute to the region's educational development.

Transportation

The transportation infrastructure in Akita Prefecture includes a network of railways, highways, and an airport. The Akita Shinkansen provides high-speed rail service to Tokyo. The Akita Airport offers domestic flights to major cities in Japan.

Related Pages

• Akita (city)
• Tōhoku region
• Dewa Province
• Satake clan
• Kanto Festival
• Namahage
• Nyuto Onsen
• Akita University
• Akita International University