Yamawa

Yamawa [山盒; やまわ] is a city located in north-western Heisai Prefecture. As of 2020, it had a population of around 114,000. It is the second-largest city in the prefecture by geographical area, surpassed by Yukimawa. It is known for its valley region, called Yamawa Valley, which is the most significant producer of green tea in northern Kanton.
The area of present-day Yamawa was part of ancient Tengō Province, and has been settled since ancient times. The area has seen a large amount of Summui immigration since the 8th century, and like the neighbouring city of Kusake, has been the site of many historical conflicts between the Kantonese and the Summui. During the early Chisō period, it was the seat of the Summui warlord Noshiba and his followers, where Danbu Castle was built in the late 800s. After his death it came under the control of the Tengō clan.
== Geography ==
Yamawa is located beneath the slopes of Mount Sakaba in the north of the prefecture; a portion of the city's western ward is bordered by the woodlands of Heikan Forest. The rivers Seikai and Shifushi flow through the city. Due to the proximity of Yamawa to Mount Sakaba, a mining industry has developed with granite, sulphur and iron being the main minerals extracted.
== Economy ==
Yamawa's economy is mainly based on agriculture, light manufacture and the processing of raw materials such as stone and iron. Green tea production is another significant addition to the economy. 
== Local attractions ==
* The dramatic river gorge Ganmiuka, which rises above the hilly reaches of the Shifushi River, offers rides in traditional flat-bottomed boats known as daki.
*Various hot springs are located throughout the region surrounding the Yamawa Valley.