Lab 1 - Three Interesting Maps

Arbitrary North

This is a virtually upside-down map of Japan. While initially disorienting, the distinct islands of the archipelago, such as Hokkaido and Honshu, can be readily identified. Looking at Japan unconventionally from a rotated perspective challenges the historical idea of Japan as an isolated country. Personally, this alternative view makes Japan appear much more connected to the rest of Asia, as the Sea of Japan less dauntingly separates the neighboring Asian countries. I find it interesting that depending on one’s orientation of North, maps are subject to new interpretations.

Source: “Japan Prepared to Open Up to the Rest of Asia?” http://www.asahi.com/english/asianet/hatsu/eng_hatsu031011.html. 7:14 pm, Oct. 3, 2010.

Under the Streets of the Bay

Since the fatal San Bruno gas pipe explosion made headlines several weeks ago, Bay Area residents understandably want more information regarding pipeline and shut-off valve locations. With my hometown not far from the explosion site, I share this interest. While PG&E has been reluctant to release any maps due to post-9/11 security concerns, the company finally disclosed a list of Top 100 highest-risk natural gas pipelines, albeit without incredible detail. Here is a California Energy Commission map depicting locations of four Bay Area gas transmission lines with high risk of failure. Line 132, running from Milpitas to San Francisco, is the high-capacity line that burst in San Bruno on Sept. 9.

Source: “Map: PG&E’s Riskiest Pipes” http://www.baycitizen.org/san-bruno-explosion/interactive/pges-riskiest-pipelines/. 8:00 pm, Oct. 3, 2010.

Mapping My Name

Having encountered several Elizabeths in my life, it does not surprise me that it remains among the top 20 most common names in the United States. In fact, my middle name is Elizabeth. Accordingly, I find this Google map pinpointing all street names in North America containing “Elizabeth” quite amusing. Apparently Elizabeth is a common street name as well. From Elizabeth Lane in Irvine, California to Elizabeth Avenue in Staten Island, New York, it spans the nation. “Miki” on the other hand is not so pervasive, yet I am completely content with that. It makes a "Miki" street-finding expedition much more plausible. Try mapping your name too!

Source: “Find Street Names on Google Maps that Have Your Name” http://seo-chief.com/find-street-names-on-google-maps-that-have-your-name/. 9:10 pm, Oct. 3, 2010.


The three maps I chose do not bear significant relation to one another, yet they each represent some unique aspects of mapping. Maps can alter one’s perspective through simple rotation, maps can reveal “invisible” infrastructure within cities, and maps can even be fun visuals. I look forward to working with an extensive variety of maps this quarter.