Minami-Alps, Mountain city in Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan.
Minami-Alps sits at the eastern edge of the Southern Alps in Yamanashi Prefecture and spreads across several valleys through which rivers like the Midai, Takizawa and Tsubo flow. The landscape alternates between forested slopes, terraced fields and small villages that cling to the gentle hills.
The city came into being in 2003 when four neighboring towns and two smaller communities from the Nakakoma District joined together. This union aimed to strengthen the rural areas at the foot of the mountains and simplify their administration.
The region maintains traditional craftsmanship through washi paper production, suzuri inkstone creation, and seal engraving at the Rokugo Seal Museum.
The orchards ripen at different times, allowing visitors to pick various fruits from early summer to autumn. Roads wind through gentle slopes and are usually easy to navigate, but winter snow can make access to higher areas more difficult.
Mount Kitadake rises to 3193 meters (10475 feet) and is therefore the second highest peak in Japan after Fuji. Hikers appreciate the climb for its clear air and wide views over the surrounding valleys and peaks.
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