BandaiAsahi

BandaiAsahi is a geographic region located in the northern part of Yamagata Prefecture, Japan. This area encompasses the cities of Sakata and Tsuruoka, along with the towns of Mutsura, Shohoku, and Asahi. The name "BandaiAsahi" is a combination of two prominent geographical features: Mount Bandai, an active volcano located to the east, and the Asahi Mountain Range, which forms a significant portion of the region's western border.

The region is characterized by its diverse landscape, featuring a coastal plain along the Sea of Japan, fertile river valleys, and mountainous terrain. Historically, it has been an important agricultural area, particularly for rice cultivation, due to the rich soil and abundant water resources. The Shonai Plain, a major part of BandaiAsahi, is known for its productivity.

Culturally, BandaiAsahi has a rich heritage, influenced by its feudal past and its connection to the sea. Sakata, in particular, was a prosperous port town during the Edo period. The region offers various natural attractions, including hot springs, beaches, and hiking trails in the Asahi Mountains. The Dewa Sanzan, a sacred mountain group within the Asahi Mountain Range, is a significant religious site for Shugendo practitioners. The economy of BandaiAsahi relies on agriculture, fisheries, tourism, and some manufacturing.