Why Hokkaido Remains as a Single Prefecture: A Detailed Examination

Hokkaido, the northernmost of Japan's main islands, operates as a singular prefecture, primarily due to its geographic, historical, and administrative factors. This article delves into the reasons behind this unique administrative structure.

Geographic Context

The geography of Hokkaido plays a significant role in its governance as a single prefecture. With its vast lands encompassing mountains and forests, the island naturally forms boundaries that make it efficient to manage as a cohesive unit. Dividing Hokkaido into multiple prefectures would add complexity and increase the challenges in maintaining governability. These natural features act as a de facto division, streamlining the administrative processes.

Historical Development

The historical context is another crucial factor. During the Meiji Restoration, Hokkaido was largely unpopulated and underdeveloped compared to other parts of Japan. The government decided to establish it as a single prefecture to facilitate development and easier administration. This decision, made in the early 1880s, laid the foundation for how Hokkaido would be governed for decades to come.

Administrative Aside: 1881 to 1886

It is worth noting that in 1881, Hokkaido was briefly divided into three prefectures, following the mainland's administrative system. However, this division was chaotic and unsuccessful. In 1886, the Hokkaido Government was established, and the quasi-prefectural administrations were reformed. Although these administrations were similar to those in British colonies, they were not fully autonomous, with inhabitants not having the right to vote. This period showed that a simple division did not address the complexities of administering a new and largely undeveloped region.

Population Density and Resource Allocation

The lower population density in Hokkaido also contributes to its governance as a single prefecture. With fewer urban centers, a single prefectural structure helps streamline governance and resource allocation. This is especially relevant in a region where infrastructure and development efforts need to be coordinated across a wide area.

Economic and Administrative Cohesion

Economically, Hokkaido's diverse landscape supports a variety of sectors, including agriculture, tourism, and fisheries. Managing these industries effectively often requires coordinated policies, which are easier to implement under a single administrative body. This cohesion ensures that policies are consistent and efficient, enhancing the overall development of the region.

Post-WWII Continuation

After World War II, there have been no significant changes to Hokkaido's administrative structure. The region was seen as strategically important for "self-defense" purposes and was an example of a "simpler administration system." Notably, Osaka once sought to emulate Hokkaido's administrative model, but for different reasons. Instead of simplifying bureaucracy, Osaka aimed for special treatment, similar to that of Hokkaido and Okinawa.

Conclusion

While Hokkaido has faced occasional administrative changes, its single-prefecture status remains largely unchanged due to the interplay of geographic, historical, and economic factors. Understanding these aspects provides insight into why Hokkaido remains a singular and uniquely structured prefecture in Japan.