Fukushima Prefecture Overview
Fukushima Prefecture is located in the Tohoku region of Japan. It is the third largest prefecture in Japan by area, following Hokkaido and Iwate Prefecture. As of 2015, it has the second-largest population in the Tohoku region after Miyagi Prefecture. However, its population density ranks 40th nationwide, making it relatively low. With vast land, Fukushima encompasses diverse regions. The prefectural capital is Fukushima City, while major cities such as Koriyama and Iwaki have developed as core cities, each with distinct roles and characteristics.
Geography and Regional Composition
Fukushima Prefecture is broadly divided into three regions—Aizu, Nakadori, and Hamadori—based on differences in geography, climate, and historical background.
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Aizu Region: Located in the western part of the prefecture, Aizu is an inland area surrounded by the Echigo and Ou mountain ranges. It accounts for just under 40% of the prefecture’s total area but only around 13% of its population. Known as a heavy snowfall area, Aizu experiences significant snow accumulation in winter. It is home to historical cities such as Aizuwakamatsu and boasts rich tourism resources and natural beauty.
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Nakadori Region: Situated in the central part of the prefecture between the Ou Mountains and the Abukuma Highlands, Nakadori is home to about 62% of Fukushima’s population. Major cities such as Koriyama and Fukushima are located here, serving as commercial, industrial, and administrative centers. This inland area experiences hot summers and snowy winters in some parts.
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Hamadori Region: Stretching along the Pacific Ocean, Hamadori occupies just over 20% of the prefecture’s area and houses about 25% of its population. It features a mild oceanic climate. Iwaki City, located here, is a thriving hub of industry, fishing, and tourism.
Historical Background
Before the abolition of feudal domains, the area that is now Fukushima Prefecture was divided among several feudal domains, including the Aizu Domain. In 1876, the present-day Fukushima Prefecture was established through the merger of Wakamatsu Prefecture (Aizu), the former Fukushima Prefecture (Nakadori), and Iwaki Prefecture (Hamadori). The name "Fukushima" originates from Fukushima Town (now Fukushima City).
Since the Meiji era, Fukushima has seen significant development in mining and manufacturing industries. In 1899, the first branch of the Bank of Japan in the Tohoku region was established here. Today, the prefecture remains industrially active, with Iwaki City being one of the largest industrial cities in the Tohoku region.
Climate Characteristics
Fukushima Prefecture stretches widely from east to west, resulting in diverse climates across the regions:
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Hamadori: With an oceanic climate along the Pacific coast, summers are cool and winters mild. Particularly around Onahama in Iwaki City, the area is among the warmest in the Tohoku region and rarely experiences snowfall.
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Abukuma Highlands: This high-altitude area experiences severe winters, with temperatures dropping below -10°C. Though snowfall is minimal, cold weather damage can occur.
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Nakadori: An inland climate brings hot summers and cold winters. Some parts, such as the Fukushima Basin, are designated heavy snowfall zones. Overall, this area receives less precipitation compared to other parts of Tohoku.
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Aizu: A typical Japan Sea-side climate region, Aizu is known for heavy snowfall and harsh inland winters, where temperatures can fall below -20°C. The Tadami River basin is one of Japan's heaviest snowfall areas and is also a center for hydroelectric power generation.
Modern Fukushima and Its Recovery
The Great East Japan Earthquake and the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant accident in 2011 had a profound impact, particularly on the Hamadori region. Some areas remain designated as restricted zones where residents cannot return. The disaster made "Fukushima" known worldwide, significantly influencing global nuclear policies.
On the other hand, Fukushima Prefecture is rich in history, nature, and tourism resources. Attractions such as the historical heritage of Aizuwakamatsu, the scenic beauty of Bandai-Asahi National Park, and cultural sites like Ouchi-juku support the prefecture's appeal.
Conclusion
Fukushima Prefecture is a region blessed with abundant nature, diverse culture, and a rich historical background. It boasts one of the largest populations in the Tohoku region and features a wide range of industries, tourism, agriculture, and energy resources. Each region within the prefecture offers distinct climates and landscapes, contributing to Fukushima's unique identity. In recent years, the prefecture has been actively working toward recovery from the disaster and is moving forward with new initiatives for the future.