Part 6/9:
Climate is another pivotal factor contributing to Hokkaido's low population. Located north at approximately 43° latitude, the region endures harsh winters characterized by heavy snowfall and long, cold spells. Daily life and infrastructure management become increasingly challenging under such conditions, and significant snow impacts transportation and agriculture.
These climatic challenges lead to limited agricultural production, restricting the range of crops that can be cultivated. Consequently, while Honshu benefits from a temperate climate conducive to rice production, Hokkaido's agricultural output is focused on hardier, less efficient crops, which cannot support as large a population.