Where in Japan can you find the most beautiful women?

We recently saw a list of prefectures where the most beautiful women in Japan live.

How accurate is it? And what’s the reasoning behind the choices?

The list originated in a survey put out by ranking site Goo asking people to submit suggestions for the prefecture in Japan where the local ladies are the prettiest.

The results are not simply the places where the population is the highest.

The survey only collected 500 responses, so it can hardly be called comprehensive, but does offer a glimpse into the reputation of certain prefectures.

8. Hyogo (tie)
8. Osaka (tie)
7. Kyoto
6. Okinawa
5. Kanagawa
4. Hokkaido
3. Fukuoka
2. Tokyo

We expected Okinawa, with its combination of surf, sea, and sun, to score higher, not least because so many models and actresses come from the southern prefecture.

Frigid Hokkaido is a bit of a surprise and we suspect Kyoto makes it onto the list for its association with elegance and class.

Tokyo, naturally, ranks high because of its sheer size.

And the top prefecture? The place in Japan where respondents thought the hottest ladies hailed from?

1. Akita

Another chilly region, right up there at the northern tip of Honshu, the main island of Japan.

Apparently its snowy climate means women have better complexion, resulting in that pale, white skin so beloved in Japan.

So all these ranking and listing begs the question: Do you agree?