Wakada

Wakada [盒讨 わかだ] is a city located in central coastal Saka Prefecture. As of 2022, it had a population of around 12,000.
Wakada began as a fishing village in the early medieval period, and was one of the main seats of the Yamako clan during their campaign against the Kamado of southern Kantai. The Battle of Wakada, fought in 1318, was held in the area which is now the city centre, and is considered one of the most significant battles of the Yamako-Kamado conflict. Wakada was also recognised as an important port town due to its position on the Tohara Delta overlooking Nōyū Bay.
== Geography ==
Wakada is situated on the western coast of Saka Prefecture, on Nōyū Bay. The Tohara River runs through the centre of the city. It is bordered to the east by Lake Yo, and is due south of the larger city of Kanonaka. The Port of Wakada, the largest port in Saka Prefecture, is located in the city's western ward.
== Economy ==
Despite its relatively small population, Wakada is one of the more prosperous cities in Saka. Its position on Nōyū Bay beside the Port of Wakada makes its fishing industry the largest in the prefecture, and it is also a significant tourist destination due to its history and proximity to Lake Yo, which is an attraction within itself. Inland, the farming of rice and other cash crops is held along the banks of the Tohara.
In 2017, Wakada gained a boost to its reputation when it was named by the Kantonese National Statistics Board as one of the happiest towns in the country, with its residents reportedly having a happiness index far above the national average. Due to this, it is now often known locally as Wakauchi (わかうち) - meaning roughly 'source of joy', a play on its official moniker.
== Local attractions ==
* Wakada Museum
* Port of Wakada
* Lake Yo
* Wakada Coastal Park
* Sukeyama Beach