Geography of Japan during Medieval Times

• 4 major islands:


  Hokkaido, Honshu, Shikoku, Kyushu
• How many smaller islands are part of Japan?


  3,900 islands
• Oceans surrounding Japan:


  • Sea of Japan (East Sea)
  • Pacific Ocean
  • Philippine Sea
  • East China Sea
• Benefits of being surrounded by oceans:


  • being able to look out for enemies easier
  • access to transportation to other countries
  • unlimited food supply
• How much land do mountains take up in Japan?


  75%
• Because volcanoes and mountains are common in Japan...


  so are earthquakes
• Climate in Japan:


  mild temperatures and abundant rainfall
• Mild temperatures and abundant rainfall in Japan allowed...


  the growth of crops (rice & tea)
• Farming areas:


  • terraces in mountains
  • low valleys between mountains
• Japan during medieval times; time period:


  500-1700 C.E.