Soya (宗谷) is a subprefecture of Hokkaido, Japan. Its population is estimated to be 77,500 as of July 31, 2004 and its area is 4,050.84 km².

Geography

Cities

1. Wakkanai (capital)

Districts

• Soya

2. Sarufutsu

• Esashi

3. Hamatonbetsu

4. Nakatonbetsu

5. Esashi

6. Utanobori

• Teshio

7. Toyotomi

• Rebun

8. Rebun

• Rishiri

9. Rishiri

10. Rishirifuji

History

• 1897 Soya Subprefecture established; Soya, Esashi, Rishiri, Rebun Districts placed under its jurisdiction
• 1948 Toyotomi Village (now Town), Teshio District transfered from Rumoi Subprefecture