Most Attractive Prefectures in Japan

Warm Up

1. How you been to Japan?

2. Do you like to travel?

3. Where did you go for your last vacation?
   

Reading

Hokkaido Tops List of Most Attractive Prefectures

According to the Regional Brand Survey, Hokkaido is Japan's most attractive prefecture. Around 30,000 people gave their opinions about Japan's prefectures and municipalities. Out of Japan's 47 prefectures, Hokkaido has now had the top position every year for 14 years. After Hokkaido, Kyoto is in second place, followed by Okinawa in third, Tokyo in fourth and Osaka in fifth.

Hokkaido has also done well in the list of most attractive municipalities, having three cities listed in the top five. Sapporo has topped the list for the eighth time, Hakodate is in third place and Otaru is in fifth. Outside of Hokkaido, Kyoto is listed as Japan's second most attractive municipality, and Yokohama is in fourth place.

So why is Hokkaido so popular? The most northern of Japan's four main islands, Hokkaido is famous for its fresh seafood, its skiing, and its scenic mountains and lakes. Its cities are also popular with tourists. Sapporo's Snow Festival, the night view from Mount Hakodate, and Otaru's historic buildings are all famous attractions. Local travel writer Delaina Miyazaki says that Hokkaido is attractive because it has both beautiful nature and the convenience of big city life. She writes, "In Hokkaido, you're sure to find the freshest food and the warmest hearts."

Complete Top 10 List

1. (1) Hokkaidō

2. (2) Kyoto

3. (3) Okinawa

4. (4) Tokyo

5. (5) Osaka

6. (7) Fukuoka

7. (6) Kanagawa

8. (8) Nara

9. (10) Ishikawa

10. (9) Nagasaki

Reading Comprehension

1. How many people voted for Japan's most attractive prefecture this year?

2. Which city topped the list of most attractive municipalities?

3. What makes Hokkaido so attractive, according to Delaina Miyazaki?
   

Discussion Questions

1. Do you find it surprising that Hokkaido has been voted Japan's most attractive prefecture for 14 years in a row?

2. Have you been to Hokkaido? Could you see yourself living there?

3. How many cities in your country have you lived in?

4. What parts of your country would you most like to live in?

5. What would you say makes your town or city an attractive place to live?

6. What is your town, city, or region famous for?

7. What are the most popular tourist attractions in your region?

8. Do you know anyone who has lived in many different parts of your country?

9. Have you traveled much around your country? What areas are you yet to visit?

10. Have you ever thought about moving abroad? If so, where to? If not, why not?