Against the backdrop of globalisation and digitalisation, geographical tools have become key drivers of reform in geography education. This study examines junior secondary geography curriculum standards in China, Singapore, Japan, and South Korea. Using content analysis in combination with a classifi cation framework based on the “pyramid of experience,” it analyses how four categories of geographical tools—visual, practical, media, and informational—are represented and positioned within the curricula of these countries. The fi ndings show that all four curricula emphasise the integrated use of geographical tools and the development of core competencies. Common features include the use of visual tools to enhance spatial cognition, media tools to support multimodal learning, information tools to refl ect digital transformation, and practical tools to promote inquiry-based learning. At the same time, distinctive national emphases are evident: China stresses practiceoriented integration, Singapore foregrounds digital empowerment and media convergence, Japan highlights disaster education alongside ethical considerations, and South Korea places greater emphasis on social issues and civic education. Overall, the study reveals both shared trajectories and localised characteristics in East Asian geography education, providing insights for curriculum standard optimisation, digital transformation, and competency-based teaching.