Japan is an amazing country full of culture and variety. It’s divided into eight different regions, and each one has its own special areas called prefectures. Let’s take a fun journey through these regions to learn more about Japan’s geography!
Hokkaido is the northernmost part of Japan and is made up of just one prefecture, also called Hokkaido. It’s famous for its beautiful natural scenery and chilly weather. People love visiting Hokkaido for winter sports like skiing and snowboarding.
Tōhoku is in the northeast of Japan and has six prefectures:
This region is known for its stunning mountains, relaxing hot springs, and rich cultural traditions.
Kantō is located in eastern Japan and includes seven prefectures:
Kantō is one of the most crowded regions and is home to Tokyo, a city that mixes modern life with traditional culture.
Chūbu is a big region in the center of Japan with nine prefectures:
This area is famous for its mountains, ski resorts, and hot springs, making it a great place for adventure and relaxation.
Kansai is in the southern-central part of Japan and has seven prefectures:
Kansai is full of history and culture, with famous cities like Kyoto and Osaka known for their historic sites and delicious food.
Chūgoku is in western Japan and includes five prefectures:
This region is known for its beautiful scenery, historical places, and tasty seafood.
Shikoku is the smallest of Japan’s four main islands and has four prefectures:
Shikoku is famous for its pilgrimage routes and lovely coastal views.
Kyūshū is the southernmost region of Japan and has eight prefectures:
Known for its warm weather and volcanic landscapes, Kyūshū is a favorite spot for tourists from all over the world.
Japan’s eight regions each offer something special and exciting, making the country a wonderful place to explore. From the snowy mountains of Hokkaido to the sunny beaches of Okinawa, there’s something for everyone in this diverse nation. Learning about these regions and their prefectures helps us understand the beauty and complexity of Japan even better!
Map Your Own Region: Create a map of your own region or neighborhood. Include important places like parks, schools, and your home. Compare your map to one of Japan’s regions. What are some similarities and differences you notice? Discuss with a friend or family member how geography affects the way people live in both places.
Weather Watch: Choose one region of Japan and research its weather. Keep a weather diary for a week, noting the temperature and weather conditions in that region. Compare it to the weather in your area. How does the weather affect activities people can do in each place? Share your findings with the class.
Culture Connection: Pick a cultural tradition or food from one of Japan’s regions. Try to find a similar tradition or food in your own culture. Create a drawing or write a short story about how these traditions or foods bring people together. Present your work to the class and explain why cultural connections are important.
