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The rugged terrain, primarily composed of mountains and forests, offers limited flat arable land, hampering agricultural and economic development. Additionally, Hokkaido is physically isolated from Honshu, separated by the Tsugaru Strait. This separation has historically made migration to the island difficult, and while modern transportation has improved access, the remoteness still impacts population density.
Economic Factors Affecting Hokkaido
The economy of Hokkaido primarily hinges on agriculture and industry, yet it lags behind Honshu in terms of industrial production. While the island is known for its agriculture—especially dairy farming and certain crops—it cannot compete with the economic opportunities available in major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Nagoya.