Hokkaido

Hokkaido is unique in that it is considered both as a region and as a prefecture due to its size and localisation.

A characteristic of Hokkaido's industrial structure is that primary and tertiary industries play a greater role in the prefecture than in the rest of Japan while secondary industries play a smaller role.

The main advantage of this region is its natural environment which allows the area to maintain the highest levels of production in agriculture, forestry, and fisheries. The region is a home to the hub of Japanese woodworking due to its active production on furniture designs and wooden products that are primarily advantaged by the large forestry sector.

Additionally, the sea food and food processing industry is long-established in the prefecture. The region is known as the largest producer of sea urchins and crab, making Hokkaido cuisines relatively rich and varied compared to other cuisines from other regions in Japan.

Notably, many biotechnology and IT companies have been setting up businesses there in recent years, as have an increasing number of companies in the automotive industry.

Hokkaido is also known for its ever-growing tourism industry. Due to its location in the northernmost part of Japan, it is a famous ski resort destination for tourists from all over the world. Its profound wood making furniture sector also serves as a popular attraction for tourists and design enthusiasts.

Prefecture:

Hokkaido Prefecture

The prefecture main industries are: agriculture, forestry, fisheries, food processing, textile, wood and wooden products, ceramic and pottery materials, pulp, paper and paper products, chemical industry, oil and coal products, metal processing, transportation machinery. Growing industries: biotechnology, IT, automobile-related.

Further Readings:

• The NHK made some videos presenting the 47 Prefectures of Japan. Click here for the videos presenting Hokkaido.
• Our report "FDI Incentives by Prefecture 2022" will provide you with a concise summary of FDI incentives in Japan organised by prefecture and assist you in determining which of Japan's prefectures are more suitable for your business.

Sources:

• https://www.jetro.go.jp/en/eccj/ind_tourism/hokkaido.html

• https://www.jetro.go.jp/en/eccj/ind_tourism/asahikawa-dc.html

Picture: Goryokaku in Hakodate
Picture copyright: Wikipedia under the GNU Free Documentation License