Japan is an island country in East Asia located in the northwestern Pacific Ocean. It consists of four major islands—Honshu, Hokkaido, Kyushu and Shikoku—along with numerous smaller islands.

Its location makes it highly exposed to earthquakes, tsunamis and volcanic activity.

Key Pointers

  • Category: World Geography / International Relations
  • Capital: Tokyo
  • Major islands:
    • Honshu
    • Hokkaido
    • Kyushu
    • Shikoku
  • Located in the Pacific Ring of Fire.
  • High seismic and volcanic activity.
  • Important surrounding water bodies:
    • Sea of Japan
    • East China Sea
    • Pacific Ocean
  • Japan is a major Indo-Pacific power.
  • Member of G7.
  • Important strategic partner of India.

Prelims Focus: Japan → island nation → Ring of Fire → four major islands.