INTRODUCTION ABOUT JAPAN
Japan is an island nation in the Pacific Ocean, off the coast of East Asia. It is composed of several volcanic ranges,
which divide the country into four main islands: Hokkaido, Honshu, Shikoku and Kyushu. There are 47 prefectures in Japan.
(A prefecture is sort of like a “state” in the U.S.)Because Japan’s islands stretch so far, the weather varies a lot. From icy Hokkaido in the north to the small subtropical islands in the south, every climate is a little different. However, most of the country enjoys a temperate, oceanic-type climate with four distinct seasons.
Although Japan is a small country by land area, it has the eighth largest population in the world, with 125.6 million people. This makes Japan one of the most densely populated countries in the world. Most Japanese live on the heavily developed East Coast or in the southern region, where most of Japan’s largest cities are located. In fact, four out of five live in cities or large towns. Over one quarter of the population of Japan lives in Tokyo and the immediately surrounding prefectures.
Japan has one of the most convenient public transportation systems in the world. Japan Railway covers most areas of Japan and many private railway companies operate their service within each area. Shinkansen (bullet trains) connect major cities in Honshu and Kyushu at 300km/h speed. Major cities operate their own subway systems and bus services cover not only big cities, but also rural areas. Many Japanese use these public transportation systems for their commute.
In Japan you can enjoy a good mixture of traditional and modern culture. Visiting old Shinto shrines and temples can take you to the unchangeable ancient and calm atmosphere, with time passing slowly. Coming back to the cities, life is very much like that of the Western World, where state-of-the-art culture is fascinating.
Japan National Tourist Organization --- All about Japan, the Japanese, Travel, Tokyo, Holidays, hotels and much more...
www.jnto.go.jpJapn External Tourist Organization --- All about Business with Japan
www.jetro.go.jpReal Japan Site --- Real young Japanese lifestyle information by Real Japanese-American
www.realjapan.net