Senzan

Senzan [绘山 せんざん] is the capital city of Heisai Prefecture. It has a population of around 200,000, making it the second-largest city in the prefecture. It is considered to be the political centre of the prefecture. 
The present-day city of Senzan was the seat of the Senyama from the 1600s until their dissolution in the late 1800s; the old clan residence, Teiō Castle, is perhaps the most famous historical site in the city. In ancient times, the area of modern-day Senzan was called Katazake; the region surrounding it was known as the Katazake Plain, and was the site of a number of clan battles. Multiple sites, the oldest being over 2,000 years old, have been excavated around the Usamizu River. 
During the establishment of the dōryō highway system across Kanton in the 15th century, stations or koman were also established along these circuits to serve as rest-stops for travellers, particularly officials. One of the most important highways, the Nishi no Nari (Salt Road), passed through the area of present-day Senzan, and it became a popular travellers' town of the route. 
There are many hot springs on the northern outskirts of the city, most prominently the resort areas of Hiruma, Tsubuyama, and Mite. Senzan is also home to the Senzan Race Course, the largest and most popular horse racing track in the Honzura region.
== Geography ==
Senzan is located on the Kugata Valley plain, bordered notably by Yukigata, Yasume and Genzu. The Usamizu and Korosu Rivers flow through the city centre, and it is bordered to the north-east by Lake Miwara. The Hakahara highlands lie due north of the city, and to the east lie the foothills of the Yūmi range. The sheer amount of irrigation water available in Senzan was formerly used for the cultivation of mulberry trees; however, by the 20th century focus was placed on growing a variety of orchard trees. 
The climate of Senzan is mild, although winters are quite cold. Rainfall is frequent and often heavy, and summer can often be surprisingly humid for the northern region.
== Economy ==
Senzan relies heavily on agriculture and industry - fruits make up the largest amount of crops grown in and exported from Senzan, particularly peaches, apples, cherries, and pears. Chemicals, machinery, ceramics, and metals are more examples of highly-produced goods. 
== Education ==
=== Universities ===
* Senzan University
* Honzura University - Senzan campus
* Heisai Prefectural University
* Heisai Medical University
* Senzan College
== Local attractions ==
* Teiō Castle
* Senzan Central Park
* STARHILL kyōbun
* Toshiba Falls
* Asa Gardens
* Meashi Wetlands
* Senzan Archery Festival (Senzan Kyūjimachi)