# Geospatial Information Authority of Japan

> institution responsible for surveying and mapping the national land of Japan

**Wikidata**: [Q2986578](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q2986578)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Geospatial_Information_Authority_of_Japan)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/geospatial-information-authority-of-japan

## Summary
The Geospatial Information Authority of Japan (GSI) is a national research institute responsible for surveying and mapping Japan's land. Established in 1869, it operates under the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism and produces high-precision maps, aerial photographs, and geospatial data to support infrastructure development, disaster management, and environmental monitoring.

## Key Facts
- **Inception**: 1869 (originally as the Land Survey Department)
- **Parent Organization**: Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism
- **Headquarters**: Kitasato, Ibaraki Prefecture
- **Classifications**: Research institute, national mapping agency, volcano observatory
- **Primary Functions**: Land surveying, geospatial data production, disaster response mapping
- **Aliases**: Kokudo Chiri-in, Geographical Survey Institute, GSI
- **Website**: [gsi.go.jp](https://www.gsi.go.jp/) (Japanese and English versions)
- **Social Media**: Twitter (@GSI_chiriin), Facebook (gsi.saiyo), YouTube (国土地理院動画チャンネル)
- **Products**: Maps of Japan, aerial photographs, geospatial datasets
- **Replaced**: Land Survey Department (predecessor organization)

## FAQs
### Q: What is the main purpose of the Geospatial Information Authority of Japan?
A: The GSI is responsible for surveying and mapping Japan's land, producing geospatial data, and supporting infrastructure, disaster management, and environmental monitoring.

### Q: Who oversees the Geospatial Information Authority of Japan?
A: The GSI operates under the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism.

### Q: How can I access maps and data from the GSI?
A: The GSI provides maps and data through its official website, [gsi.go.jp](https://www.gsi.go.jp/), which offers both Japanese and English versions.

### Q: What types of geospatial data does the GSI produce?
A: The GSI produces high-precision maps, aerial photographs, and geospatial datasets used for infrastructure planning, disaster response, and environmental studies.

### Q: How old is the Geospatial Information Authority of Japan?
A: The GSI was established in 1869, originally as the Land Survey Department.

## Why It Matters
The Geospatial Information Authority of Japan plays a critical role in Japan's infrastructure and disaster preparedness. By maintaining accurate maps and geospatial data, the GSI supports urban planning, disaster response, and environmental monitoring. Its high-precision surveys and aerial photography help mitigate risks from natural disasters, such as earthquakes and floods, while also aiding in the development of transportation networks and land-use policies. The GSI's work ensures that Japan's infrastructure remains resilient and adaptable to changing environmental and demographic conditions.

## Notable For
- **Historical Significance**: One of Japan's oldest national mapping agencies, with roots dating back to 1869.
- **Geospatial Innovation**: Pioneers in aerial photography and digital mapping technologies.
- **Disaster Response**: Provides critical geospatial data for post-disaster recovery and risk assessment.
- **International Collaboration**: Shares geospatial data and expertise with global partners.
- **Technological Leadership**: Develops advanced geospatial tools and platforms for public and private use.

## Body
### Founding and Evolution
The Geospatial Information Authority of Japan (GSI) was established in 1869 as the Land Survey Department, evolving into its current form as a national research institute. It operates under the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, with its headquarters in Kitasato, Ibaraki Prefecture.

### Core Functions
The GSI's primary responsibilities include land surveying, geospatial data production, and disaster response mapping. It produces high-precision maps, aerial photographs, and geospatial datasets used for infrastructure planning, environmental studies, and disaster management.

### Digital Presence
The GSI maintains an active online presence, offering services and data through its official website, which is available in both Japanese and English. It also engages with the public through social media platforms like Twitter (@GSI_chiriin) and Facebook (gsi.saiyo), as well as a dedicated YouTube channel (国土地理院動画チャンネル).

### Data and Products
The GSI's products include maps of Japan, aerial photographs, and geospatial datasets. These resources are essential for urban planning, disaster response, and environmental monitoring, ensuring that Japan's infrastructure remains resilient and adaptable.

### Historical Context
Originally known as the Land Survey Department, the GSI replaced this predecessor organization, continuing its mission of surveying and mapping Japan's land. Its long history reflects its role as a foundational institution in Japan's geospatial infrastructure.

### International Engagement
The GSI collaborates with international partners, sharing geospatial data and expertise to support global efforts in disaster response, environmental monitoring, and infrastructure development. Its work contributes to broader geospatial initiatives worldwide.

### Technological Advancements
The GSI is at the forefront of geospatial technology, developing advanced tools and platforms that enhance data accuracy and accessibility. These innovations support both public and private sector applications, ensuring that Japan's geospatial infrastructure remains cutting-edge.

## References

1. Japan Search
2. ROR release v1.19
3. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
4. [Source](https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/u/1/d/1WPS-KJptUJ-o8SXtg00llcxq0IKJu8eO6Ege_GrLaNc/htmlview)
5. [Open GLAM Survey, version of 3 August 2021](https://archive.org/details/OpenGLAM_Survey_20210803)
6. [Open GLAM Survey, version of 17 February 2022](https://archive.org/details/OpenGLAM_Survey_20220217)
7. [Source](https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1WPS-KJptUJ-o8SXtg00llcxq0IKJu8eO6Ege_GrLaNc)
8. [Open GLAM Survey, version of 27 June 2023](https://archive.org/details/open-glam-survey-backup-20230627)
9. [Open GLAM Survey, version of 16 May 2024](https://archive.org/details/open-glam-survey-backup-20240516)
10. GRID Release 2016-12-06
11. Microsoft Academic Knowledge Graph
12. [Open GLAM Survey](https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1WPS-KJptUJ-o8SXtg00llcxq0IKJu8eO6Ege_GrLaNc)
13. National Library of Israel Names and Subjects Authority File
14. YouTube API