Northern Territories; Southern Kuril Islands
Refers to the four islands (Etorofu, Kunashiri, Shikotan, and the Habomai group) administered by Russia but claimed by Japan. Often used in political and historical contexts.
The Japanese government demands the return of the Northern Territories.
北方領土問題は日露関係の大きな課題だ。
The Northern Territories issue is a major challenge in Japan-Russia relations.