Spatial Analysis of Inoh's Map Using GIS with the Focus on National Land Changes over 200 Years in Japan

Abstract

 Geographical features in the early 19^th century and transformation of landforms during the past 200 years in Japan are studied through an overlay analysis of the current GSI map issued by the Geospatial Information Authority of Japan and Inoh's map issued in 1821. Analyzed are: (i) survey activities of Inoh's team and terrain conditions, shapes of lakes and islands, and distribution of place names at the end of the Edo era using 214 sheets of Inoh's large-scale map (1:36,000), and (ii) retreat and advance of coastlines, and route changes of roads and rivers over the 200 years. Land development is investigated through reclamation and landfills from natural and socio-economic aspects by applying GIS datasets to a digitalized version of Inoh's map. The usefulness of geospatial analysis is demonstrated by employing GIS techniques to understand quantitatively changing land conditions in Japan.