Southwestern Region

geographical region, Japan

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Last updated

July 14, 2026

Quick Summary

The Southwestern Region of Japan, also known as Kyushu, is the southernmost and third-largest of Japan's main islands. It is bordered by the East China Sea to the west and the Pacific Ocean to the east. This region includes Kyushu island and other nearby islands, extending southwestward in the Ryukyu Islands.

Kyushu is characterized by volcanic mountain ranges and has a subtropical climate in its southern areas, known for lush vegetation and heavy rainfall. The island is home to Mount Aso, one of the world's largest active volcanic craters, and several national parks. Major crops include rice, tea, and citrus fruits, while industries, particularly in northern Kyushu, focus on iron, steel, and chemicals. The region is divided into seven prefectures, with major cities including Fukuoka and Nagasaki.1

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Japan
The major physiographic regions
The Southwestern Region—which includes western Honshu (Chūgoku), as well as Shikoku and northern Kyushu—generally coincides with the southwestern mountain arc, and the general trend of highlands and lowlands is roughly convex toward the Sea of Japan. The region is divided into the Inner Zone, formed by…
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The Southwestern Region—which includes western Honshu (Chūgoku), as well as Shikoku and northern Kyushu—generally coincides with the southwestern mountain arc, and the general trend of highlands and lowlands is roughly convex toward the Sea of Japan. The region is divided into the Inner Zone, formed by…
Read More