Wakayama Prefecture

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Flag_of_Arida,_Wakayama

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Flag_of_Gobo,_Wakayama

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Wakayama Prefecture (和歌山県, Wakayama-ken) is a prefecture of Japan located in the Kansai region on Honshu island. The capital is the city of Wakayama.

Geography[edit | edit source]

Wakayama Prefecture is situated on the southwestern part of the Kii Peninsula and is bordered by Osaka Prefecture to the north, Nara Prefecture to the east, and Mie Prefecture to the northeast. The prefecture faces the Pacific Ocean to the south and west. The Kii Mountain Range runs through the eastern part of the prefecture, and the Kumano River flows through the southern part.

History[edit | edit source]

Wakayama Prefecture has a rich history that dates back to ancient times. It was part of the Kii Province during the Nara period. The region is known for its historical sites, including the Kumano Sanzan shrines and the Koyasan temple complex, which are part of the Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Economy[edit | edit source]

The economy of Wakayama Prefecture is diverse, with key industries including agriculture, forestry, and fishing. The region is famous for its production of mikan (Japanese mandarins), ume (Japanese plums), and kaki (persimmons). The prefecture also has a significant industrial sector, with chemical and steel manufacturing being prominent.

Tourism[edit | edit source]

Wakayama Prefecture is a popular tourist destination, known for its natural beauty and cultural heritage. Major attractions include:

Kumano Kodo pilgrimage routes
Koyasan temple complex
Wakayama Castle
Shirahama hot springs and beaches
Nachikatsuura and the Nachi Falls

Transportation[edit | edit source]

Wakayama Prefecture is accessible by various modes of transportation. The Nankai Electric Railway and JR West provide rail services connecting the prefecture to Osaka and other parts of Japan. The Hanwa Expressway and Kisei Expressway are major highways that run through the prefecture. The Nanki-Shirahama Airport offers domestic flights to and from Tokyo.

Education[edit | edit source]

Wakayama Prefecture is home to several educational institutions, including Wakayama University and Koyasan University. The prefecture also has a number of primary, secondary, and vocational schools.

Culture[edit | edit source]

Wakayama Prefecture has a rich cultural heritage, with traditional festivals such as the Kumano Hongu Taisha Spring Festival and the Kishu Toshogu Shrine Festival. The region is also known for its traditional crafts, including Kishu lacquerware and Kishu Binchotan charcoal.