Yukuzō

Yukuzō [森昆沿; ゆくぞう] is a city located in southern Saka Prefecture. As of 2022, it had a population of around 43,000. The city is nicknamed the 'City of Youths' (bunsha no seki) by locals due to its having the largest concentration of young people in the Honzuranō region, especially in contrast to Saka's widely aging population.
Human settlement in the Yukuzō area dates back to ancient times. It began as an agricultural village under the governance of the Kyōge clan, who were the overseers of Sudai Province. By the 15th century, the area had come under the control of the Yamako clan as part of Yamako Province. Yukuzō became one of the most populous settlements in the region by the end of the 1600s, having grown to become a thriving merchants' town and a centre of trade for Yamako Province. The production of tea, spices, and raw marble, all of which were luxury items, contributed to the wealth of the settlement moving into the early modern period.
On December 6, 2012, Yukuzō (along with the cities of Tadanami and Wakada) was struck by a tornado that caused heavy damage to numerous structures and left approximately 70,000 residents without electricity. The storm killed one 16-year-old girl and injured 45 people.
== Geography ==
The majority of Yukuzō's area is located within the Tohara Delta, which has allowed the production of rice, tea and other irrigated crops to flourish. Geologically there is an abundance of marble, which is quarried in the far south of the city. A large portion (around 55%) of the area of Lake Yo is located within the boundaries of Yukuzō, featuring as a major tourist attraction. The Denba River also runs through the southern ward. Most of the city is built on flat, well-drained land.
Yukuzō often experiences heavy fog and sea mist during the autumn months due to its position near to the coast. Most of the year is very cold compared to other parts of the prefecture, but snow is uncommon even in winter.
== Economy ==
Yukuzō is a major industrial and agricultural centre. The city produces a large amount of black tea and spices such as star anise and cinnamon. Rice farming is still a considerable part of the local economy, as is mining. Yukuzō is also considered one of the best university cities in the country, and has a large student population.
Tourism is perhaps the largest sector of the city's economy; Yukuzō is home to many attractions, including its famous hinamachi spots and the shores of Lake Yo, which are used for watersports and fishing. The city is also rich in history and culture.
== Education ==
=== Universities ===
* Yukuzō University
* Yukuzō Institute of Technology
* Kudai College
* Yukuzō Higada Junior College
== Local attractions ==
* Yukuzō Museum
* Lake Yo
* Yukuzō Hinaya (a well-known site for hinamachi, receiving over 20,000 visitors in the May-April period)
* Yukuzō Temple
* Kudai Castle
* Amegusa Park
* Yuku Central Park