Geography

This westernmost prefecture of Honshu Island, Yamaguchi, is sandwiched between the Sea of Japan and the Inland Sea. Yamaguchi also shares an eastern border with Shimane and Hiroshima. The 700-meter-wide Kammon Channel separates Yamaguchi and Kyushu Island along with islands such as Yashiro Island (Oshima). The Chugoku mountain range changes as it approaches western Yamaguchi, from imposing mountains to mild highlands of no more than 500 meters. The climate is typical of that around the Sea of Japan. Yamaguchi is susceptible to damage caused by wind and rain storms.

Industry & Economy

The prefectural agricultural production is about average for both the region and the nation. Compared to the other industries, agriculture/forestry does not play a critical role. However, rice, barley, citrus fruits, and lotus roots are prefectural specialties. Yamaguchi is blessed with good fishing ports such as Shimonoseki, excellent shore fishing, and is still considered one of the top producers of shrimp and sea bream. However, the fishing industry has been declining. The cement and heavy chemicals are growing industries.

Cultural Background

In ancient times Yamaguchi was part of the Kyushu cultural district, receiving considerable influence from China. This gave the prefecture a fairly high level of culture. Even after the power shifted eastward, it maintained good relationships with the Yamato government. Since the Sengoku Civil War era, the Mori family, the power of Yamaguchi, controlled the entire Chugoku district from Yamaguchi. After the Meiji Restoration, many members of the family were assigned to posts in the Meiji administration. In fact, Yamaguchi has produced several prime-ministers.

Religious Milieu

A recent survey showed that 70% of Yamaguchi believes that the emperor should be given the utmost respect. This is the highest in the nation. An equal percent believe that the old customs and traditions should be valued. This ranked fourth nationally. And yet they only show an average interest in religion, and have no specially famous temple or shrine. They were second highest in the nation for feeling that it is important to obey tlle national and local governments. These attitudes, coupled with their strong group feelings, make it difficult for them to make individual decisions for the gospel.

The Mission

Christian work in Yamaguchi was begun by St. Francis Xavier himself. He was given an open door by Lord Ouchi, which led to many conversions. The Protestant ministry began in Shimonoseki. Knowing the success of the prewar missionary activities in the midst of an inflexible and conservative environment should spur us on to reach this pref ecture .