Kaizu

Kaizu (海津市, Kaizu-shi) is a city located in the southwest portion of Gifu Prefecture, Japan. Most of the city is located at sea level and is well known for levees surrounding the area.

The modern city of Kaizu was established on March 28, 2005, from the merger of the former town of Kaizu, absorbing the towns of Hirata and Nannō (all from Kaizu District).

Geography

Levees are the most visible feature surrounding the city. To the west of the city is the border of Gifu and Mie prefectures, where the Yōrō Mountains run from north-to-south and the three major rivers of the Nōbi Plain (the Ibi, Nagara, and Kiso rivers) merge. The Tsuya, Ōgure, and Ōe rivers also flow through the city.

History

Jōmon period

A midden from Jōmon period was found in Kaizu, which includes sea shells, tools, and human remains. These artifacts indicate that the area was settled as early as 2,500 years ago. Around these period, Kaizu was much closer to the ocean and many basket clam shells can be found.

Kamakura period

In 1319, towards the end of the Kamakura period, the first circle levee was completed. Originally, levees were only on the upstream portion of the city, leaving the downstream side vulnerable to floods. Once the full circle levee was completed, numerous other circle levees were built in the surrounding area.

Industries

File:Hirata.jpg

"Welcome Hirata," a sign to the Hirata portion of Kaizu

The city is home to mikan and tomato producers. Kaizu is the northernmost point in Japan that grows mikan extensively.

Attractions

Kaizu is home to Kisosansen Park. This is the location at which the Nagara, Ibi, and Kiso rivers meet. It is a great place to relax, enjoy outdoor sporting activities, or view the yearly flower festival held there. Because of the confluence of these three rivers and the area's geography, Kaizu was prone to flooding in ancient Japan. A panoramic view of the area can be viewed from an observation tower located in Kisosansen Park.

External links

• Kaizu City official website (Japanese)