Prefecture

Prefecture is a term used to refer to various types of administrative divisions in different countries. The term originates from the Roman Empire, where it was used to denote the jurisdiction of a prefect. Today, it is used in various forms in countries such as Japan, France, China, and others.

History

The term "prefecture" comes from the Roman Empire, where it was used to denote the jurisdiction of a prefect. Prefects were appointed officials who were responsible for administering a defined area, which could include a city, a military camp, or a province.

Prefectures in Different Countries

Japan

In Japan, a prefecture (ken in Japanese) is the largest administrative division. There are 47 prefectures in Japan, which are further divided into cities, towns, and villages. The governor of a prefecture is elected by the residents of the prefecture.

France

In France, a prefecture may refer to the office of a prefect, or to the building in which the office is located. The prefect is the representative of the national government at the local level, and is responsible for enforcing national laws and regulations.

China

In China, a prefecture (zhou in Chinese) is a middle-level administrative division. There are about 333 prefectures in China, which are further divided into counties, autonomous counties, and cities.

See Also

• Administrative division
• Prefect
• Subprefecture
• Prefectures in Japan
• Prefectures in France
• Prefectures in China