Cartographical Survey: The National Atlas of Japan

Summary

The National Atlas of Japan, compiled by the Geographical Survey Institute, Ministry of Construction, and first published by the Japan Map Center in Tokyo in 1977, represents the most advanced and comprehensive atlas ever published in Japan. This review of its English edition highlights that the atlas comprises 216 maps, including 50 in A1 format at a scale of 1:2,500,000 and 166 in A2 format at a scale of 1:4,000,000, accompanied by explanatory notes, auxiliary maps, graphs, and transparent overlays. Designed primarily for planners, businessmen, and civil servants involved in national resource development and land policy, the thematic maps cover agriculture, industry, communications, and trade. The atlas meets the highest international standards, with excellent binding, color representation, and printing quality, while the detailed explanatory notes provide a valuable summary of Japan's physical, social, and economic geography.