A prefecture is an administrative division within a country, often serving as a region for local governance. Prefectures can vary in size and population, and they typically have their own local government and administrative responsibilities. Countries like Japan and France use the term "prefecture" to describe these divisions, which help manage public services and regional development. In Japan, there are 47 prefectures, each with a unique culture and history. The capital of each prefecture is usually a city that serves as the administrative center. In France, prefectures are subdivisions of regions and are overseen by a government-appointed official known as a prefect.