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<h1>Introducing Yamanashi Prefecture</h1>
<p class="g_aligncenter"><img style="width: 411px; height: 308px;" alt="" src="http://www.yamanashi-kankou.jp/foreign/english/images/img26_01.jpg" /></p>
<p>Yamanashi prefecture is located near the center of Honshu, the main  island of Japan. It has an area of 1,723.8 mi2 and a population of  890,000. Surrounded by 6,560-9,840 ft high mountains and rich in nature,  78% of the prefecture is covered by forests--including those of its  three national parks and one quasi-national park, such as the famous  Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park.</p>
<p>Kofu city, the capital of Yamanashi, is located in a geographically  important area, connecting the industrial areas of the Pacific Ocean and  the Japan Sea coasts. Kofu continues to develop as a political,  economic and cultural center, especially thanks to the completion of the  Chuo Expressway, which offers easy access to the national capital,  Tokyo. Yamanashi is well noted as an inland industrial prefecture with  both advanced technological and traditional industries.</p>
<p>Among the various products of Yamanashi, the fruits grown in its  favorable environment are some of the most famous. Its harvest of  grapes, peaches and plums is ranked as the best and most beautiful in  Japan, and the wines made of Koshu grapes are well known all over the  world. In addition, kaiki (traditional weaving of silk textiles),  crystal crafting, and the production of washi, or Japanese paper, are  all very popular. Techniques refined in Yamanashi for cutting precious  stones are among the most advanced in the world, as well.</p>
<p>Mountain climbing and hot springs are among the most popular forms of  recreation in Yamanashi. The many hot springs in the area offer health  benefits and relaxation. The largest spring in the prefecture, located  in Isawa, is only one and a half hours from Tokyo.</p>
<p>Mt. Fuji and the five lakes for its breathtaking scenery, the  southern alps for its serious mountain climbing, the Chichibu-Tama area  for hiking and beautiful ravines, and the Yatsugatake highland area for  pastoral surroundings--these are the gateways where many people find  their chance to escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life. After  hiking, tennis, field athletics, or fishing, why not try one of our  delicious local specialties? Hoto made of thick noodles and vegetables  in a rich miso soup will warm you up on even the coldest winter day.</p>
<p>Yamanashi is an inland prefecture, holding no ocean coast. People in  this area have learned to overcome the severe elements of inland climate  over a long period of time. This is said to have built a character of  patience and endurance in the populace. You will find people  warmhearted, caring and conscientious.</p>
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<p><a href="http://www.yamanashi-kankou.jp/english/index.html">http://www.yamanashi-kankou.jp/english/index.html</a></p>