Japan Land of the Rising Sun

Physical Characteristics Archipelago the size of California 4 large islands, 3,900 small islands Volcanoes, earthquakes, tsunamis, typhoons, ring of fire Temperate climate Mountainous Little arable land Isolated by dangerous seas, but inland sea connects islands

Japanese culture Homogenous Middle Class Highly educated Nuclear families Crowded urban areas

Religious influences Secular lives Shintoism Buddhism Confucianism Worship forces of nature and spirits of ancestors, Alters in homes, prayers and sacrifices Buddhism Spiritual enlightenment, live selflessly and modestly Confucianism Respect wisdom of authority, importance of common good

Population Density One of the highest population densities in the world 7,219 people per square mile

Transportation Average commute 90 minutes in Tokyo Extensive and efficient public transportation system Pushers Bullet trains Traffic jams Parking

Housing Apartments smaller than typical American family room Multiple use rooms, futons Tiny appliances Bonsai trees Cremated after death Capsule hotels

Land Use Conflicts common Earthquake zone Build up and underground Building land in deltas and wetlands Terracing

Health Masks Garbage, Recycling Pollution, Acid Rain Strict environmental laws