Nishikatsura, Yamanashi Prefecture, Chūbu Region, Japan

🇯🇵 Nishikatsura is a town located in Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan. As of 1 June 2019, the town had an estimated population density of 280 persons per km². The total area of the town is 15.22 square km (5.88 sq mi).

Geography Nishikatsura is situated in the Katsura River valley in southern Yamanashi Prefecture, near the northern foot of Mount Fuji, and is the departure point for climbs of Mount Mitsutoge, which affords unhindered views of Mount Fuji. The area is also famous for its pure, clean water.

Neighboring municipalities Yamanashi Prefecture ◦ Fujiyoshida; ◦ Fujikawaguchiko; ◦ Tsuru.

History The area around modern Nishikatsura has been settled since prehistoric times, and developed from the Sengoku period, as a hamlet on the pilgrimage route to Mount Fuji. During the Edo period, all of Kai Province was tenryō territory under direct control of the Tokugawa shogunate. Per the early Meiji period establishment of the modern municipalities on July 1, 1889, the village of Katsura was created within Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi Prefecture. It was renamed Nishikatsura on June 3, 1893 after expansion through annexation of portions of neighboring villages, and was raised to town status on September 15, 1952.

Demographics Per Japanese census data, the population of Nishikatsura peaked around the year 2000 and has declined since.

Economy Nishikatsura is home to numerous small textile plants, which manufacture neckties and umbrellas.

Education Nishikatsura has one public elementary school and one public middle school operated by the town government. The town does not have a high school.

Transport: Rail • Fujikyuko Line; ◦ Mitsutōge.

Transport: Road • National Route 139.