Poporo forest park
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The City of Hatsukaichi lies on the coast of Hiroshima
Prefecture facing Miyajima Island, which is known as one of the
three most beautiful sites in Japan. It is bordered on the
opposite side by Mt.Gokurakuji and the Seto Inland Sea National
Park. Hatsukaichi enjoys not only these beautiful natural
surroundings, but also a legacy of rich history. The origins of
the city's name, meaning "Twenty Day City, " derive from
Hatsukaichi's historical role as a market on the twentieth day
of each month.
In the Kamakura Era(1192-1333), the area was under the rule
of Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima. When the shrine underwent
reconstruction, an influx of laborers from Kamakura helped
establish Hatsukaichi's positlon as a center for tradesmen. In
this way, Hatsukaichi's growth continues to be intertwined with
the culture of Miyajima. In the Edo Period(1603-1867),
Hatsukaichi was an important stop on the Saigokukaido, or West
Japan Road, and became a place of shelter for travelers. Today,
it is an attractive, conveniently located city, folded between
the Seto Inland Sea and the lush greenery of the mountains,
bordering Hiroshima City to the west. As Hatsukaichi turns
toward the 21st century, it will strive to place priority on
harmony between its citizens and nature, in the face of new
challenges.
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