Japan prefectures quiz: can you name all 47?
Quick, free Japan prefecture test. Instant results and helpful facts.
This quiz helps you learn and recall all 47 Japanese prefectures, from Hokkaido to Okinawa. As you play, you will see instant feedback and a short fact for each correct answer. If you want wider context, try our east asia map quiz or compare systems with the Canadian provinces quiz, then return to sharpen speed and accuracy.
Study Outcomes
- Identify Prefectural Names -
Recognize and recall all 47 prefectures of Japan by name and geographical region.
- Recall Capital Cities -
Match each prefecture to its capital city and understand its position within Japan's regional framework.
- Match Landmarks -
Associate famous landmarks and attractions with their respective prefectures for enhanced geographical context.
- Recognize Local Specialties -
Identify well-known foods, crafts, and cultural products unique to each prefecture.
- Assess Quiz Performance -
Measure your knowledge with a scored japanese prefectures quiz and pinpoint areas for improvement.
- Apply Insights to Travel Planning -
Use your quiz results to design informed travel itineraries or deepen your understanding of regional diversity in Japan.
Cheat Sheet
- Eight Regional Divisions -
Japan's 47 prefectures are grouped into eight regions - Hokkaido, Tohoku, Kanto, Chubu, Kansai, Chugoku, Shikoku, and Kyushu-Okinawa - each reflecting geographic and cultural ties (Geospatial Information Authority of Japan). To remember them in north-to-south order, craft a phrase from their initials (H, T, K, C, K, C, S, K), such as "Happy Tigers Keep Climbing Kilns Seeking Kumquats."
- Prefectural Capitals and Kanji -
Each prefecture has a capital city whose name often appears in quizzes (Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications). For example, Miyagi's capital is Sendai (仙坰) and Kumamoto's is Kumamoto (熊本); learning the kanji alongside romaji solidifies recognition.
- Iconic Landmarks and Local Specialties -
Associating prefectures with famous sites and foods aids retention and prepares you for any japanese prefectures quiz (Japan National Tourism Organization). For instance, Mount Fuji anchors Shizuoka and Yamanashi, Osaka is famous for takoyaki, and Hokkaido for its seafood and Sapporo Snow Festival.
- Silhouette and Map Recognition -
Visual learners benefit from memorizing each prefecture's outline on a blank map (Geospatial Information Authority of Japan). Practice sketching shapes - like the horn shape of Akita or the narrow S-shape of Yamaguchi - to quickly identify prefectures in map-based rounds.
- North-to-South Prefecture Sequence -
Memorize the full list of 47 prefectures in true north-to-south order, which is a common quiz format (University of Tokyo, Geography Department). Break the list into manageable chunks - e.g., Hokkaido alone, six in Tohoku, seven in Kanto - and drill each section with flashcards or a custom song.
