Yamaguchi Prefecture

Yamaguchi Prefecture (山口県 Yamaguchi-ken^?) is a prefecture of Japan in the Chūgoku region on Honshū island.^[1]

The capital is the city of Yamaguchi, in the center of the prefecture.^[2] The largest city, however, is Shimonoseki.

Yamaguchi Prefecture was created by the merger of the provinces of Suō and Nagato.^[3]

For the purposes of development analysis, Yamaguchi is construed to be part of Northern Kyūshū. Although Yamaguchi not part of the island of Kyūshū, it has become a functional satellite of the Kanmon Straits metropolitan area.^[6]

The most popular place for tourism is Shimonoseki. One of the major attractions is the famous Kintai Bridge in the town of Iwakuni. This five arched wooden structure is considered a symbol of Western Honshū. The area on the banks of the Nishiki river close to the bridge is considered among the best places in Japan for Hanami, when groups of family and friends gather in early April to view cherry blossoms. Akiyoshidai Quasi-National Park, which includes Japan’s longest cave, the Akiyoshido (秋芳洞^?), is another popular destination.

Famous for Festival and Event

• Kintaikyo Festival in Iwakuni - held in April 29
• Nishiki River Water Festival in Iwakuni - held in August
• Iwakuni Festival in August
• Yanai Goldfish Lantern Festival in August
• Yamaguchi Gion Festival in July 20 to 27
• Yamaguchi Tanabata Lantern Festival in August 6 to 7
• Hagi Era Festival in April
• Hagi Festival in August 2 to 3
• Shimonoseki Straight Festival in May 2 to 4
• Shimonoseki Firework Festival in August^{[citation nee}