Geography and Culture of Japan and Mongolia

This set of flashcards covers key terms and concepts related to the geography, history, and culture of Japan and Mongolia, including their significance in feudal systems, major figures, and key historical events.

What is Japan classified as due to its geography?

Japan is classified as an archipelago, a chain of islands.

What are the four major islands of Japan?

Honshu, Hokkaido, Kyushu, and Shikoku.

What percentage of Japan's land is considered arable?

Approximately 12% of Japan's land is arable.

What natural disasters frequently affect Japan?

Japan frequently experiences earthquakes, tsunamis, and volcanoes.

What does 'wa' signify in Japanese culture?

'Wa' signifies harmony and social order.

What are the primary influences on Japanese culture?

Shinto, Buddhism, and Chinese ideas including Confucianism.

What is Shintoism?

Shintoism is the native religion of Japan focusing on kami, or spirits in nature and ancestors.

What is the time period for Japanese feudalism?

Japanese feudalism occurred from the 1100s to the 1600s.

Who is the military ruler in the Japanese feudal system?

The Shogun is the military ruler in the Japanese feudal system.

What is the 'Bushido Code'?

The Bushido Code is the 'Way of the Warrior' guiding samurai behavior.

What was the significance of Genghis Khan?

Genghis Khan united Mongol tribes and created the largest contiguous land empire in history.

What empire did Kublai Khan found?

Kublai Khan founded the Yuan Empire.

What was the Pax Mongolica?

The Pax Mongolica was a period of safer trade across Eurasia enabled by Mongol control.

What impact did the Black Death have on Europe's population?

The Black Death killed about 1/3 of Europe's population.

How did the Mongol rule affect trade?

Mongol rule expanded trade, particularly along the Silk Road, facilitating cultural exchange.