What is the Chūgoku region, and what is its alternative name?

The Chūgoku region is the westernmost region of Honshū, which is the largest island of Japan. It is also known by its alternative name, the San'in-San'yō region.

Which prefectures are included in the Chūgoku region?

The Chūgoku region comprises five prefectures: Hiroshima, Okayama, Shimane, Tottori, and Yamaguchi.

What is the total land area of the Chūgoku region?

The Chūgoku region covers a total area of 31,922.26 square kilometers, which is equivalent to 12,325.25 square miles.

What was the population of the Chūgoku region according to the 2020 census?

As of October 1, 2020, the Chūgoku region had a total population of 7,328,339 people.

What is the population density of the Chūgoku region?

The population density of the Chūgoku region is 229.5683 people per square kilometer, or 594.5792 people per square mile.

What is the total Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of the Chūgoku region in both Japanese Yen and US Dollars?

The total GDP of the Chūgoku region is JP¥30.745 trillion, which translates to US$282 billion.

What time zone does the Chūgoku region observe?

The Chūgoku region observes the UTC+9 time zone, which is also known as Japan Standard Time (JST).

What does the name Chūgoku literally mean, and what is its origin?

Chūgoku literally means middle country. The exact origin of the name is unclear, but it relates to historical classifications of Japanese provinces.

How were historical Japanese provinces classified in relation to the administrative center in Kansai?

Historically, Japanese provinces, known as *koku*, were classified based on their distance from the administrative center in Kansai. These classifications included near countries (kingoku), middle countries (chūgoku), and far countries (ongoku).

What is one explanation for the name Chūgoku based on historical provincial classifications?

One explanation suggests that Chūgoku was originally used to refer to the collection of middle countries located to the west of the capital in Kansai. However, this explanation has limitations as only a minority of the provinces in the modern Chūgoku region were classified as middle countries, and the term did not apply to middle countries east of Kansai.

What is an alternative explanation for the origin of the name Chūgoku?

An alternative explanation proposes that Chūgoku referred to provinces situated between Kansai and Kyūshū, a route historically significant as a link between Japan and mainland Asia.

How did the historical scope of Chūgoku differ from its modern definition?

Historically, Chūgoku encompassed the 16 provinces of San'indō and San'yōdō. However, in modern usage, some of the easternmost provinces that were later incorporated into prefectures primarily based in Kansai are no longer considered part of the Chūgoku region.

Why is the Japanese term Chūgoku sometimes confused with China?

In Japanese, the characters 中国 and the reading Chūgoku are also used to mean China. These are the same characters used in Chinese, pronounced Zhōngguó, which literally means Middle Kingdom or Middle Country.

How was the potential confusion between the Chūgoku region and China addressed before the end of the Second World War?

Before the end of the Second World War, China was more commonly referred to as *shina* (支那/シナ) in Japanese to prevent confusion with the Chūgoku region. The word *shina* shares the same etymology as the English word China.

Why did the term *shina* become offensive and subsequently abandoned after World War II?

The term *shina* became an offensive word due to its extensive use during the Sino-Japanese War. Consequently, it was abandoned after the war, and *Chūgoku* has since been used to refer to China.

What is the purpose of calling the Chūgoku region the San'in-San'yō region in modern times, especially in tourism?

In modern times, particularly within the tourism industry, the Chūgoku region is also called the San'in-San'yō region to avoid confusion with the country China, which shares the same Japanese name, Chūgoku.

How are the San'in and San'yō sub-regions geographically distinguished?

The San'in region is the northern part of Chūgoku, facing the Sea of Japan, while the San'yō region is the southern part, facing the Seto Inland Sea.

What is the basis for the naming scheme of the San'in and San'yō regions?

The names San'in and San'yō were created using a yin and yang-based place-naming scheme, where 'yin' typically refers to the shaded, northern side of a mountain or region, and 'yang' refers to the sunny, southern side.

What is the significance of Hiroshima within the Chūgoku region's history?

Hiroshima, considered the capital of the Chūgoku region, was destroyed by an atomic bomb in 1945. It has since been rebuilt and transformed into an industrial metropolis with a population exceeding one million people.

What are the economic characteristics of the San'yō and San'in sub-regions?

The San'yō region is characterized by a concentration of heavy industry, whereas the San'in region is less industrialized and primarily relies on an agricultural economy.

What environmental challenges have impacted the fishing grounds of the Seto Inland Sea?

The fishing grounds of the Seto Inland Sea have experienced reduced productivity due to issues such as overfishing and pollution.

What are the general geographical characteristics of the Chūgoku region?

The Chūgoku region is characterized by irregular rolling hills and limited plain areas. It is distinctly divided into two parts by mountains that run east and west through its center.

Which other regions of Japan border the Chūgoku region?

The Chūgoku region is bordered by Kyūshū, Shikoku, and Kansai.

Which specific historical provinces within modern-day Okayama Prefecture were classified as near countries?

Within modern-day Okayama Prefecture, Mimasaka Province and Bizen Province were historically classified as near countries, while only Bitchū Province was considered a middle country.

What are the two largest metropolitan areas in the Chūgoku region, and what is their combined population as of 2020?

The two largest metropolitan areas in the Chūgoku region are Hiroshima and Okayama, which together had a total population of 2.808 million as of 2020.

How is the population distributed across the Chūgoku region?

While Hiroshima and Okayama form significant metropolitan areas, the rest of the Chūgoku region is sparsely populated and predominantly rural.

What is the overall population trend observed in the Chūgoku region since 1992?

The Chūgoku region as a whole has experienced a steady population decline since 1992, with some of its prefectures showing declines even earlier, since 1985.

When did the Chūgoku region reach its peak population, and what was that approximate figure?

The Chūgoku region reached its peak population of approximately 7.8 million people in 1991.

What was the population of the Chūgoku region in 1920?

In 1920, the population of the Chūgoku region was 4,971,000 people.

What was the percentage change in population for the Chūgoku region between 1940 and 1950?

Between 1940 and 1950, the Chūgoku region experienced a significant population increase of 18.9%, rising from 5,718,000 to 6,797,000 people.

What was the population of the Chūgoku region in 2010?

In 2010, the population of the Chūgoku region was 7,563,428 people.

What was the percentage decline in population for the Chūgoku region between 2010 and 2020?

Between 2010 and 2020, the Chūgoku region experienced a population decline of 3.1%.

Which cities are designated as designated cities in the Chūgoku region, and what are their populations?

The designated cities in the Chūgoku region are Hiroshima, with a population of 1,200,000, and Okayama, with a population of 720,000.

Which cities are classified as core cities in the Chūgoku region, along with their populations?

The core cities in the Chūgoku region include Kurashiki (population: 480,000), Fukuyama (population: 460,000), Shimonoseki (population: 260,000), Kure (population: 220,000), Matsue (population: 210,000), and Tottori (population: 200,000).

What other major city is mentioned in the Chūgoku region, and what is its population?

Yamaguchi is another major city mentioned in the Chūgoku region, with a population of 200,000.

What are some notable sightseeing locations in Hiroshima Prefecture?

Notable sightseeing locations in Hiroshima Prefecture include Hiroshima City itself, Miyajima, Fukuyama, and Onomichi.

What are some popular sightseeing destinations in Okayama Prefecture?

Popular sightseeing destinations in Okayama Prefecture include Okayama City, Kurashiki, Takahashi, Tsuyama, Niimi, Bizen, and Tamano.

Which sightseeing spots are highlighted in Shimane Prefecture?

Highlighted sightseeing spots in Shimane Prefecture are Tsuwano, Izumo, Matsue, and Iwami Ginzan.

What are some recommended sightseeing locations in Tottori Prefecture?

Recommended sightseeing locations in Tottori Prefecture include Tottori City, Misasa, Daisen, and Kurayoshi.

Which sightseeing areas are listed for Yamaguchi Prefecture?

Sightseeing areas listed for Yamaguchi Prefecture include Shimonoseki, Yamaguchi City, Iwakuni, Hofu, Hagi, and Akiyoshidai.

What is the largest airport serving the Chūgoku region, and where is it located?

The largest airport serving the Chūgoku region is Hiroshima Airport, which is situated 50 kilometers (31 miles) east of Hiroshima City.

How is the Chūgoku region portrayed in Lian Hearn's *Tales of the Otori* trilogy?

In Lian Hearn's *Tales of the Otori* trilogy, a feudal version of Chūgoku, translated as the Middle Country, serves as the setting for the story.

What is the Chūgoku region referred to as in the fictional work *B. Ichi*?

In the fictional work *B. Ichi*, the Chūgoku region is referred to as the land of martial arts.

What is the distinction in pronunciation for the term Chūgoku?

The accented pronunciation, [t͡ɕɯ́ːɡokɯ], is specifically used for the names of the Chūgoku region and the country China. In contrast, the unaccented pronunciation, [t͡ɕɯːɡokɯ], is used when referring to a historical type of Japanese province.

The source material includes a map illustrating the geographical location of the Chūgoku region within Japan. What does this map depict?

The source material includes a map that visually represents the Chūgoku region in Japan, showing it as the far-west area of the island of Honshu.

The source material includes a map illustrating the geographical features of the Chūgoku region. What does this map depict?

The source material includes a map that visually represents the geographical features of the Chūgoku region.

The source material includes an image of the Chūgoku region and Shikoku. What does this image show?

The source material includes an image depicting the Chūgoku region and Shikoku as seen from the International Space Station.

The source material includes a satellite photo of the Chūgoku region. What does this image show?

The source material includes a satellite photo that provides an aerial view of the Chūgoku region.

The source material includes an image of Hiroshima City. What does this image show?

The source material includes an image depicting Hiroshima City, showcasing a beautiful view of the city and the Inland Sea.

The source material includes an image of Okayama City. What does this image show?

The source material includes an image depicting Okayama City, specifically showing the west side of Okayama Station.

Ch U016bgoku Region Wiki: Chūgoku Unveiled: Japan's Western Frontier of History and Landscape

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Regional Overview

Location and Composition

The Chūgoku region, also recognized as the San'in-San'yō region, constitutes the westernmost expanse of Honshū, Japan's largest island. This pivotal region is comprised of five distinct prefectures: Hiroshima, Okayama, Shimane, Tottori, and Yamaguchi. Its strategic location has historically positioned it as a crucial link between Japan's administrative heartland and the broader Asian continent.^[5]

Key Statistics

As of the 2020 census, the Chūgoku region recorded a total population of 7,328,339 inhabitants. Spanning an area of 31,922.26 square kilometers (12,325.25 square miles), the region exhibits a population density of approximately 229.57 persons per square kilometer. Its economic output, measured by GDP, stood at JPY 30.745 trillion (approximately US$282 billion), reflecting a significant contribution to the national economy.^[1]^[2]

Naming Convention

The name "Chūgoku" literally translates to "middle country." This nomenclature is rooted in historical classifications of Japanese provinces, which were categorized by their proximity to the administrative center in Kansai. Provinces were designated as "near countries" (kingoku), "middle countries" (chūgoku), or "far countries" (ongoku). While the precise origin remains debated, one theory suggests it referred to the collective "middle countries" west of the capital, or perhaps to provinces situated between Kansai and Kyūshū, a vital historical conduit to mainland Asia.^[3]

Historical Context

Evolution of a Name

The historical application of "Chūgoku" extended to the 16 provinces of San'indō and San'yōdō, which collectively formed the region's earlier administrative divisions. Over time, some eastern provinces were integrated into prefectures primarily associated with Kansai, leading to a more refined modern definition of the Chūgoku region. The term "Chūgoku" also shares its written characters with the Japanese name for China, leading to historical linguistic distinctions, particularly before World War II, when "shina" was commonly used for China to avoid confusion. Post-war, "shina" became an offensive term, and "Chūgoku" became the standard for China, prompting the region's tourism industry to often use "San'in-San'yō region" to differentiate.^[a]

San'in and San'yō: A Dichotomy

The Chūgoku region is naturally divided into two distinct sub-regions, San'in and San'yō, based on a traditional yin and yang place-naming scheme relative to the central Chūgoku Mountains. The San'in ("yin of the mountains") region, facing the Sea of Japan to the north, is characterized by a less industrialized, predominantly agricultural economy. In contrast, the San'yō ("yang of the mountains") region, situated to the south and bordering the Seto Inland Sea, has historically become a hub for heavy industry. This industrial concentration, however, has contributed to environmental challenges such as overfishing and pollution in the Inland Sea fishing grounds.^[5]

Hiroshima's Resurgence

Hiroshima, often considered the "capital" of the Chūgoku region, holds a unique place in global history. Devastated by an atomic bomb in 1945, the city has undergone a remarkable reconstruction, transforming into a thriving industrial metropolis with a population exceeding one million. Its recovery symbolizes resilience and innovation, making it a significant urban center within the region and Japan as a whole.

Geographical Features

Topographical Characteristics

The Chūgoku region is geographically defined by its irregular rolling hills and a scarcity of extensive plain areas. A prominent mountain range traverses the region from east to west, effectively dividing it into two distinct geographical and cultural zones: the northern San'in and the southern San'yō. This mountainous spine influences climate, settlement patterns, and economic activities across the prefectures. The region shares its borders with Kyūshū to the west, Shikoku to the south (across the Seto Inland Sea), and Kansai to the east, facilitating diverse interactions and influences.^[5]

Prefectural Landscape

The five prefectures comprising Chūgoku each contribute to its varied landscape. While Hiroshima, Yamaguchi, Shimane, and Tottori are entirely within the modern definition of Chūgoku, Okayama Prefecture presents a historical nuance. Historically, only Bitchū Province, a component of modern Okayama, was classified as a "middle country." Mimasaka Province and Bizen Province, the other two historical constituents of Okayama, were considered "near countries." This historical classification highlights the complex administrative evolution of Japan's regions.^[5]

Demographic Trends

Population Distribution

The Chūgoku region exhibits a notable demographic dichotomy. Its two largest metropolitan areas, Hiroshima and Okayama, collectively accounted for a population of 2.808 million as of 2020. When considering their broader Urban Employment Areas, this figure expands to approximately 3 million people, underscoring their significance as regional economic and social centers. In stark contrast, the remaining areas of the Chūgoku region are characterized by sparse populations and a predominantly rural landscape, reflecting a common trend in many Japanese regions outside major urban hubs.^[6]^[7]

Population Dynamics

Japanese census data indicates a consistent pattern of population decline across the Chūgoku region since 1992. Some prefectures within the region have experienced this decline even earlier, beginning in 1985. The region reached its demographic zenith in 1991, with a peak population of roughly 7.8 million. This ongoing trend of population decrease presents significant challenges and considerations for regional planning, economic development, and social services.^[8]^[9]

The table below illustrates the historical population trends for the Chūgoku region, highlighting periods of growth and subsequent decline.

Year	Population	±%
1920	4,971,000	—
1930	5,341,000	+7.4%
1940	5,718,000	+7.1%
1950	6,797,000	+18.9%
1960	6,944,000	+2.2%
1970	6,997,000	+0.8%
1980	7,586,000	+8.4%
1990	7,746,000	+2.1%
2000	7,732,499	−0.2%
2010	7,563,428	−2.2%
2020	7,328,339	−3.1%

Prominent Cities

Designated Cities

The Chūgoku region is home to several significant urban centers, with two designated cities serving as major metropolitan hubs:

Hiroshima: With a population of 1,200,000, Hiroshima stands as the largest city in the region and a symbol of peace and resilience.
Okayama: Boasting a population of 720,000, Okayama is another vital urban center, known for its cultural heritage and economic activity.

These cities are critical for the region's economy, infrastructure, and cultural landscape, attracting residents and businesses alike.

Core and Other Major Cities

Beyond the designated cities, Chūgoku features a network of core cities and other major urban areas that contribute to its diverse character:

Core Cities:

Kurashiki: Population of 480,000.
Fukuyama: Population of 460,000.
Shimonoseki: Population of 260,000.
Kure: Population of 220,000.
Matsue: Population of 210,000.
Tottori: Population of 200,000.

Other Major Cities:

Yamaguchi: Population of 200,000.

These cities serve as regional centers for commerce, education, and local governance, each possessing unique historical and economic profiles.

Sightseeing Highlights

Cultural and Natural Wonders

The Chūgoku region offers a rich tapestry of sightseeing destinations, ranging from historical landmarks to breathtaking natural landscapes. Each prefecture contributes unique attractions that draw visitors seeking to experience Japan's diverse heritage and beauty.

Hiroshima Prefecture: Explore the poignant history of Hiroshima City, the sacred island of Miyajima with its iconic floating torii gate, the historic city of Fukuyama, and the charming port town of Onomichi.
Okayama Prefecture: Visit Okayama City, known for its Korakuen Garden, the picturesque canal district of Kurashiki, the historic castle town of Takahashi, the traditional city of Tsuyama, the scenic Niimi, the pottery town of Bizen, and the coastal city of Tamano.
Shimane Prefecture: Discover the tranquil Tsuwano, the ancient Izumo Grand Shrine in Izumo, the castle city of Matsue, and the UNESCO World Heritage site of Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine.
Tottori Prefecture: Experience Tottori City, the hot springs of Misasa, the majestic Mount Daisen, and the traditional town of Kurayoshi.
Yamaguchi Prefecture: Explore the bustling Shimonoseki, the prefectural capital Yamaguchi City, the historic Kintai Bridge in Iwakuni, the ancient Hofu, the samurai town of Hagi, and the stunning karst plateau of Akiyoshidai.

Transportation Network

Air Travel Connectivity

The Chūgoku region is well-connected by air, facilitating both domestic and international access. The primary gateway is Hiroshima Airport, strategically located approximately 50 kilometers (31 miles) east of Hiroshima City. Complementing this major hub are several smaller regional airports, ensuring comprehensive coverage and accessibility across the prefectures. These include Iwami Airport, Izumo Airport, Okayama Airport, Yonago Kitaro Airport, Oki Airport, Tottori Airport, and Yamaguchi Ube Airport, each playing a crucial role in regional connectivity.

Chūgoku in Fiction

Literary and Pop Culture Depictions

The unique character and historical depth of the Chūgoku region have inspired various works of fiction, providing imaginative interpretations of its landscape and cultural essence:

Lian Hearn's Tales of the Otori: This acclaimed trilogy utilizes a feudal rendition of Chūgoku, translated as the "Middle Country," as its evocative setting. The series draws upon the region's historical context and geographical divisions to craft a rich, immersive world.
B. Ichi: In this narrative, Chūgoku is famously referred to as "the land of martial arts," highlighting a perception of the region as a place of strength, discipline, and traditional Japanese combat prowess.

These fictional portrayals underscore the region's enduring appeal as a source of inspiration for storytelling, reflecting its multifaceted identity.

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References

Hiroshima metro

Okayama metro

Hiroshima 1995-2020 population statistics

ChÅ«goku region 1920-2000 population statistics

A full list of references for this article are available at the Chūgoku region Wikipedia page

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Chūgoku Unveiled

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Regional Overview 🗺️

📍 Location and Composition

📊 Key Statistics

🌐 Naming Convention

Historical Context 📜

🕰️ Evolution of a Name

☯️ San'in and San'yō: A Dichotomy

🏙️ Hiroshima's Resurgence

Geographical Features ⛰️

🏞️ Topographical Characteristics

🌐 Prefectural Landscape

Demographic Trends 📈

👥 Population Distribution

📉 Population Dynamics

Prominent Cities 🏙️

🌟 Designated Cities

🏘️ Core and Other Major Cities

Core Cities:

Other Major Cities:

Sightseeing Highlights ⛩️

🌸 Cultural and Natural Wonders

Transportation Network ✈️

🛫 Air Travel Connectivity

Chūgoku in Fiction 📚

📖 Literary and Pop Culture Depictions

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Regional Overview

Location and Composition

Key Statistics

Naming Convention

Historical Context

Evolution of a Name

San'in and San'yō: A Dichotomy

Hiroshima's Resurgence

Geographical Features

Topographical Characteristics

Prefectural Landscape

Demographic Trends

Population Distribution

Population Dynamics

Prominent Cities

Designated Cities

Core and Other Major Cities

Sightseeing Highlights

Cultural and Natural Wonders

Transportation Network

Air Travel Connectivity

Chūgoku in Fiction

Literary and Pop Culture Depictions

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice