Yamaebi

Yamaebi [山渓; やまえび] is a city located in southern Shinkō Prefecture. It has a population of about 124,000, and is generally considered to be the 'sister city' of its neighbour, Yamanago. 
For much of its history Yamaebi existed as a smaller township inside the border of modern-day Yamanago. It was governed by the Sanzō clan until 1121, when the clan's line died out and much of Yamaebi's population was killed by a pox. At this point, the town was swiftly captured by the Shin family and their forces. In the 1130s Yamaebi was used primarily as a military base and was home to many small Shin fortresses and lookouts. The most prominent of these was Daiko Fortress, which can still be visited today. Unlike Yamanago, Yamaebi was not a mining town, but focused instead on growing tobacco and tea plants, which were considered great commodities. The Shin clan made huge profits from selling these goods all over Kanton up until the 15th century. 
Yamaebi was known as Shinban from 1121 until 1480, when its name was changed to its current moniker.
== Economy ==
Yamaebi was a regional commercial center during the Kenrei period following the introduction of tobacco cultivation to the area. There came an end to the industry's 500-year history in 1984, and now the local farmers have largely converted to production of green tea and ornamental flowers. A former tobacco-trading center and processing plant belonging to Kanton Tobacco has been replaced by a large shopping mall. Further gentrification of the city has been carried out over recent years, with many old houses and neighbourhoods having been replaced with apartment blocks.
== Geography ==
Yamaebi is very close to the city of Saibun, and is considered to be a low-level bedroom community. It is also bordered by Yamanago, Onsan and Kesso.
== Local attractions ==
Daiko Fortress is a popular attraction for visitors to Yamaebi, and is open to the public. Its large grounds and remarkably well-preserved structure are some of the most interesting in north Kanton, and it gives a valuable insight into how Nittori fortresses were constructed. Further attractions include:
* Yamaebi Summer Fireworks Festival
* Yamaebi Market Town (this area is well-known for its good street-food and warm atmosphere)
* Hinamachi Hills, a public park which is popular during hinamachi season