National Geographic Countries of the World: Japan

Japan is a major economic power, and average income levels and standards of living are among the highest in the world. There is always a keen interest in the Japanese people and their culture. Features of the series include: main chapters that focus on geography, people and culture, history, government and economy, and nature; 'At a Glance' double spreads to present a maximum amount of information in a minimal amount of space, utilizing charts, tables, time lines, and other highly visual elements; and, full-page maps that highlight physical features, vegetation and ecosystems, history, population, and political organization. As a bonus, every photograph within each chapter is tied to a location on the main map for that chapter. Smaller maps zoom in on special topics, such as migration, rainfall, changing borders, resources, industry, and other important themes. This book includes: special feature sidebars that introduce intriguing people, places, and events; a glossary to aid in comprehension of unfamiliar terms; and, an extensive bibliography that lists books, National Geographic articles, and Web sites.

Charles Phillips has written more than 30 books, mainly about history, archaeology, the arts, and mythology. His work has been published in almost 20 languages. A graduate of Oxford University, he is the author of the How to Think series and the National Geographic Countries of the World books on Japan and Sweden.