Theme 2: Population - MEDC Population Distribution

Japan Population Distribution:
an MEDC outside Europe

This is a population density map of Japan. The dark green represents the highest population density. As seen on the map most of the population is on the south coastline of Honshu island and around the Tokyo area. Population is the lowest in the north and on the northernmost island of Hokkaido.

The population in Japan is unevenly distributed.

Japan has 322 people per km2.

Tokyo has 5500 people per km2.

Central Tokyo has >20,000 people per km2.

Reasons for the population distribution:

1. Flat land - only 13% of land is flat enough to build on. This land is mostly around the coastal areas along the south east coast of Honshu island (87% of Japan is mountainous).

2. Deep water natural harbours along the south east coast provide shelter from tropical storms (Typhoons).

3. Warmer, drier climate to the south, harsher colder climate to the north. Hot summers and a long growing season in the south (more crops can be grown). Cool summers and shorter growing season in the north.

4. Richer, fertile soil to the south.