The regions of Japan are not officially administrative units, but have been divided depending on a number of contexts. From north to south, Japan has been divided into eight regions. These regions are--- Hokkaido, Tohoku, Kanto, Chubu, Kansai or Kinki, Chugoku, Shikoku and Kyushu. The Japanese archipelago consists of mountainous regions mostly which stretch from northeast to southwest. The regions of Japan at a glance are as follows:
Regions of Japan
Hokkaido : This island is the second largest of Japan's main islands. The climate is cooler in summer and very cold in winter. Fishing and forestry are the main occupations of Hokkaido region. Sapporo, the capital city is famous for the Snow Festival.
Tohuku : This mountainous region occupies all of northeast region. The region has short summers and long winters. The area is primarily agriculture based.
Kanto : This region lies in the southeast part of Honshu. The climate is generally mild. The Tokyo-Yokohama district forms the economic hub of the region and agricultural work is on the decline.
Chubu : The region is located in central Honshu. The climatic conditions vary greatly according to the area. This area has some of the longest rivers of Japan. It also has 3 industrial areas.
Kinki : This region is located in west central Honshu and is the second most important industrial area.
Chugoku : This region encompasses the western tip of Honshu. The climate is dry and warm.
Shikoku : This is the smallest island of Japan and there is little large scale industry. The climate is subtropical.
Kyushu : This is the southernmost of the major islands. The climate is subtropical and because of the warm climatic conditions, marine sports are very popular. The Kita Kyushu Industrial Zone has many heavy industries.
