Yamanashi Prefecture is an inland prefecture located in the Chūbu region of Japan and forms part of the Kōshin'etsu area. Under the Capital Region Development Act, it is designated as part of the Greater Tokyo Area and has strong geographical and economic ties with Tokyo and Kanagawa. The prefectural capital is Kōfu City, and the entire region corresponds to the old province of Kai (Kōshū).
Geography and Terrain
Yamanashi Prefecture is a landlocked region surrounded by mountains with elevations ranging from 2,000 to 3,000 meters.
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South: Mt. Fuji
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West: Akaishi Mountains (Southern Alps)
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North: Yatsugatake Mountains
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East: Okuchichibu Mountains
Surrounded by some of Japan’s most famous high mountains, about 80% of the prefecture is mountainous, giving it one of the lowest ratios of habitable land in the country. At the center lies the Kōfu Basin, where population, industry, and government functions are concentrated.
Climate Characteristics
Yamanashi has a typical inland plateau climate, characterized by large temperature differences between day and night and a high number of sunny days. However, climate conditions vary by altitude and terrain.
Basin Areas (around Kōfu)
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Summers are extremely hot, with high daytime temperatures.
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Winters are cold, but sunny days are frequent, and daytime temperatures can rise.
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There is little snowfall, and many days are dry.
Foothills and Highland Areas (e.g., Fuji Five Lakes, Yatsugatake, Kiyosato)
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Areas over 1,000 meters in elevation have a humid subarctic climate, with winter temperatures dropping below -20°C.
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Summers are cool, making these areas popular summer resorts and tourist destinations.
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The summit of Mt. Fuji is classified as having a tundra climate due to its extremely low temperatures.
Rainfall is generally low throughout the year, and the region enjoys long hours of sunshine. However, due to its terrain, Yamanashi is prone to typhoons, and the basin areas can occasionally experience localized torrential rain.
Nature and Culture
Surrounded by rich natural environments such as Mt. Fuji, the Southern Alps, Yatsugatake, and Okuchichibu, Yamanashi is a region deeply connected to nature. With clean mountain water and a cool highland climate, fruit cultivation (grapes and peaches) is thriving, and the prefecture is known as one of Japan’s largest wine-producing areas.
The Fuji Five Lakes and Kiyosato Highland are also popular tourist spots, offering beautiful seasonal scenery and a variety of outdoor experiences.
History and Place Names
The name "Yamanashi" originates from Yamanashi District, which was part of the old Kai Province. After the abolition of the han system in the early Meiji era, the area transitioned from being called "Kōfu Prefecture" to its current name, Yamanashi Prefecture.
Transportation and Regional Connections
Yamanashi borders Tokyo, Kanagawa, Shizuoka, and Nagano, and has long maintained active transportation and cultural exchanges with these areas. Major roads and railways such as the Chūō Expressway, Chūō Main Line, and National Route 20 have been developed, ensuring excellent access from Tokyo.
In 1998, the opening of the Karisaka Tunnel on National Route 140 further improved access to the Chichibu region in Saitama Prefecture.
Summary
Yamanashi Prefecture offers a harmonious blend of majestic nature—highlighted by Mt. Fuji—agriculture represented by fruit cultivation, and a pleasant living environment thanks to its favorable climate. As a landlocked region with mild weather and excellent access to the Greater Tokyo Area, it is a quiet yet richly attractive area where tourism, agriculture, and historical culture coexist in balance.