Yamanashi Prefecture

Main City: Kofu

Population: 835,000 people ranking 41/47 prefecture (2015) [1]

Area: 4,465 km² [2]

Geographical / Landscape description

The prefecture is landlocked, with mountains surrounding the central Kofu Basin. Mount Fuji is located on the southern border with Shizuoka. As of 1 April 2012, 27% of the total land area of the prefecture was designated as Natural Parks. [2]

Climate

Thanks to Mt. Fuji rain shadow effects, the prefecture receives only about 818 mm of rainfall a year. [2]

Recent history, culture

Given the local affection for Mount Fuji, which can also be found in the prefectural flag, many festivals held in Yamanashi are strongly related to the majestic volcano. For example the Fuji-Yoshida Fire Festival is celebrated at Fuji Sengen shrine on August 26th, and announces the ending of the climbing season of Mount Fuji. During this festival torches are kindled at every house-front in in Fuji-Yoshida and the city is then said to resemble a sea of fire. [3]

More chapters:

• Economic overview
• Infrastructure
• Living environment
• Major types of economic activities
• Opportunities for EU Investors / Exporters / Importers
• Setting up a business in the prefecture
• Other contacts