Aichi

Aichi Prefecture, commonly referred to as Aichi, is a prefecture located in the Chubu region of central Honshu, Japan. The capital and largest city is Nagoya, which serves as a major economic and cultural center. As of 2020, the prefecture’s population was around 7.5 million, and its area is about 5,000 square kilometers along the Pacific coast. It borders Mie Prefecture to the west, Gifu Prefecture to the north, Shizuoka Prefecture to the east, and faces Ise Bay to the south.

The economy of Aichi is heavily industrialized, with a long-standing automotive cluster centered on Toyota Motor Corporation and its suppliers. The Port of Nagoya is one of Japan’s busiest ports and plays a key role in manufacturing, trade, and logistics for the region and country. The prefecture also supports diversified sectors, including aerospace, robotics, and science and technology research.

Historically, the area comprises parts of the old Owari and Mikawa provinces. It contains several notable sites, such as Nagoya Castle, Atsuta Shrine, and Inuyama Castle, reflecting feudal and religious heritage. Nagoya developed as a manufacturing and commercial hub during the Meiji period and remains a major urban area with cultural institutions, universities, and research facilities.

Transportation infrastructure is well developed, featuring Chubu Centrair International Airport in Tokoname and the Tokaido Shinkansen line serving Nagoya Station. A high-speed maglev project, the Chuo Shinkansen, is under development to connect Nagoya with Tokyo. The prefecture also supports museums, parks, and traditional crafts, contributing to tourism, education, and industry.