Geography of East Asia Physical Geography The physical

Geography of East Asia

Physical Geography • The physical geography is very distinct and diverse. • The major areas of the region are all set on different landforms. These areas include 1. China (Continental)- “mainland” or landlocked 2. Japan (insular)- an island 3. Korea (peninsular)- almost completely surrounded by water 4. Vietnam (peninsular/continental)- mix of landlocked and almost completely surrounded by water.

Physical Geography Continued • The physical makeup of East Asia has had a major impact on the history and development of each country. • The first settlers of China settled along major river systems such as the Yellow River and the Yangzi. • These settlements then moved South. • China is also dominated by mountains, steppes, plateaus, and deserts. • These areas were mostly settled by nomadic people who intruded on already settled land. • Japan is composed of four islands, which isolated them throughout history and hindered their development.

Major Landmarks/Areas • Great Wall of China • The wall is 5, 500 miles in length and consists of numerous walls and fortifications running parallel to one another. • The wall was the idea of Emperor Qin Shi Huang in the 3 rd Century BC as a way to prevent invasions of barbaric tribes into the Empire. • The wall was never successful at keeping invaders out, but became a symbol of Chinese strength and power.

Silk Road • The Silk Road was an ancient trade route between the East and West. It was established by the Han Dynasty in 206 BC. • Linked China to the Roman Empire • The road extended from Xian to the Mediterranean. • Aside from the goods that were traded on the road it also led to the mixing of cultures between China, India, Persia, Arabia, and Rome.

Mount Fuji • Located on the island of Japan about 60 miles southwest of Tokyo. • It is the highest peak in Japan. • It is a volcano that last erupted in 1707 - the largest eruption on record (for Fuji). • It deposited ash as far away as Tokyo. • It is a major symbol of Japan and the region and is the subject of many works of art.

Climate • Both similar to and different than that of the United States. • Similarity= temperate climate, meaning cold winters and warm summers. • Difference= The majority of the precipitation happens in the summer and not the winter. • This allows for intensive agriculture or the ability to grow a lot during a short time. • The climate makes rice the primary crop. Rice produces more per acre than other crops and can feed a higher population.

Population • China is the most populated country in the world with about 1. 3 billion people. • Due to the inability of the land to grow crops, only 7% of the land, you see small pockets with high populations. • The population of Japan is 127 million people- about ½ the population of America. However, Japan is about the size of California, so it is EXTREMELY crowded. • The most populated areas are: 1. China 2. Japan 3. Vietnam 4. South Korea 5. North Korea

Culture • The geography of East Asia has played a major role in the diverse culture of the region. • The earliest settlers settled in river valleys before expanding south, bringing their beliefs, language, and religion with them. • The geography has also prevented, and separated, cultures in the region. Examples are: o Japan: being an island they were often isolated from the mainland o Korea: completely divided not only by geography, but also through beliefs and ideas o Vietnam: Separated by mountains which led to opposing views on government, as well as culture.

Culture Continued • Most Spoken Languages: 1. Mandarin 2. Japanese 3. Vietnamese 4. Korean • Most Common Religious Beliefs” 1. Confucianism 2. Christianity 3. Buddhism 4. Islam