Final answer:
Japan's landscape is mountainous with little arable land, which has shaped its urban development and influenced its economy, leading to efficient agricultural practices despite the geographic constraints.
Step-by-step explanation:
The topography of Japan is characterized by a largely mountainous landscape with minimal arable land available for agriculture. A significant portion of the country's geographical layout comprises steep mountains and limited flat areas suitable for farming, which has historically affected settlement patterns and economic activities. Large urban centers are consequently situated in the few expansive coastal plains. Japan's challenging topography has influenced both its historical development and its current economic practices. Despite its limited arable land, Japan has developed a highly efficient agricultural sector and become one of the world's leading economies.