Flat, densely populated region of east Honshu island, Japan; area 32,377 sq km/12,501 sq mi; population (1995) 1,423,800. It is the largest plain and most heavily populated area in Japan. The chief city is Tokyo.
Red and white are traditional colours, dating back to the flag of 19th-century Samoan king, Malietoa Laupepa. The Southern Cross constellation links Samoa to other countries in the southern hemisphere. Effective date: 4 July 1997.