Ankan

Ankan [劲東; あんかん] is the capital city of Ganyama Prefecture in northern Kanton, and is the largest and most densely-populated city of the prefecture. As of 2020, it had a population of around 205,000. 
The area of present-day Ankan was part of ancient Honya Province, and has been inhabited for thousands of years. Up until the 1800s it was known by the name Uroze, which roughly translates to 'eastern blessing' in the old Ganyaman vernacular. The many ruins within the city limits are major archaeological sites, with artifacts from the Paleolithic period through the Nō and Heii periods. During the Naro period the ruling clan of western Honya, the Mei, established Uroze Castle in the 730s. The area served as the headquarters of many konbūshin for centuries afterwards. Under the Sadama administration, a castle town developed around Uroze Castle.
Throughout its history, Ankan underwent a large number of merges with smaller villages and towns, eventually amassing a geographical area which took up more than a quarter of the prefecture's western region. It is one of the biggest cities geographically in northern Kanton.
== Geography ==
Ankan lies in the lower west section of Ganyama and is bordered to the south by the Ganyama Mountains. A total of four rivers flow through the city: the Ehara, Yūko, An and Honan, and Lake An is also located in the city's eastern ward.
Like most cities in Ganyama, Ankan receives heavy snowfall, with accumulation occurring mostly from December to March. Precipitation is well-distributed and significant throughout the year, but is greater in the latter half. Most days see some precipitation, either rain or snow.
== Economy ==
The economy of Ankan remains heavily dependent on agriculture (particularly rice cultivation), light manufacture and mineral extraction. Ankan contains one of the most important mineral mines in Japan. Product refining, woodworking, metalworking, and the production of silk textiles are a few of the main industries. Ankan is also home to two regional banks that serve Ganyama Prefecture and the greater Zōku region: Ankan Bank and Honan Bank.
The Ankan Thermal Power Station is also located in the city.
== Culture and local attractions ==
The Ankan Summer Party (also known as Ankan Naimachi) is an important celebration held in the city. This festival began 350 years ago, bearing similarities to other summer festivals held elsewhere in northern and western Kanton. Participants compete in obstacle courses, archery, gymnastics, and balancing acts; traditional dancing and drinking parties are held during the evening and night hours. Live music is often included. Stunt events are held in Ankan Central Park during daylight hours involving many amateur participants.
The annual Ankan Beer Festival is held in the city centre every January and almost always proves to be a success.
=== Local attractions ===
* Ankan Prefectural Museum
* Uroze Castle
* The Ankan Central Fountain, which is one of the largest fountains in Kanton
* Ankan Museum of Art
* Ankan Kabashihan Theatre
* Ekari Park
* Ankan Central Park
*The grave of acclaimed author Koe Bōken