1.
mountainous area, highlands, mountainous terrain
A geographical term for a region with mountains and elevated terrain. Refers to areas of land that are predominantly mountains, as opposed to flatland or plains.
Usage
A geographical term used in both academic and general contexts. Not to be confused with the homophone 産地 (production area, place of origin), which has a completely different meaning.
Distinguished from 山脈 (mountain range), which refers to a chain of mountains in a line, and 高地 (highland), which emphasizes elevation. 山地 is a broader term for any area dominated by mountains.