Yes, Japan has a significant amount of forest cover.
Japan is widely recognized for its high percentage of forest land. According to data from the U.N. FAO (Food and Agriculture Organization), a substantial 68.5% of Japan's total land area is forested. This translates to approximately 24,979,000 hectares of forest.
This high percentage places Japan among the most heavily forested nations globally, especially compared to other industrialized countries. The dense forest cover plays a crucial role in the country's environment, biodiversity, and cultural landscape.
Breakdown of Forest Types
Within Japan's extensive forests, different types exist. A notable portion is classified as primary forest.
- Total Forested Area: 24,979,000 ha
- Percentage of Land Area: 68.5%
- Primary Forest Area: 4,747,000 ha
- Percentage of Primary Forest (of total forest): 19.0%
Primary forests are particularly important as they are considered the most biodiverse and carbon-dense forms of forest, representing relatively undisturbed natural ecosystems.
The combination of managed forests and significant areas of primary forest highlights the scale of Japan's forest resources.
