Edo is the former name of Tokyo, and the Edo period refers to the era from the early 17th century to the mid-19th century. Edo began in 1603, when the shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu ended the long period of war, unified the country, and established the Tokugawa shogunate with Edo as his base.

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Over the following 265 years, Japan enjoyed peace and economic growth, and made dramatic strides in art and culture — many of the Japanese traditions and art forms that people around the world associate with Japan were established during this era.

After the Meiji Restoration in 1868, the capital was renamed "Tokyo" and grew into the vast modern city it is today. Yet traces of old Edo still remain scattered throughout Tokyo, and you can still glimpse the past in certain districts, gardens, and museums. We invite you to fully experience the living history and culture of Edo in Tokyo.

Edo-Tokyo Museum — Tracing the Journey from Edo to Tokyo

Opened in 1993, the Edo-Tokyo Museum looks back on the history and culture of Edo and Tokyo while contemplating the future of cities and daily life. The distinctive building, conceived as a raised-floor storehouse, has been a Tokyo landmark and popular sightseeing spot since its opening. In its permanent exhibition, the museum traces 400 years of Edo and Tokyo history through actual artifacts and replicas, starting from Tokugawa Ieyasu's establishment of the shogunate. In addition to the permanent exhibition, the first-floor gallery hosts 5–6 special exhibitions each year, along with lectures and workshops on Edo and Tokyo history and culture.

Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum — Tracing Everyday Life Through Architecture

Established by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government in 1993, this museum sits within a spacious park and displays relocated or reconstructed buildings, including elegant residences, farmhouses, and shops. It covers not only Edo-period architecture but also Japanese history up to the 20th century. The facility is divided into three zones — West, Center, and East. The West Zone showcases a variety of mansions; the Center Zone has a visitor center converted from an old palace; and the East Zone features many shops such as izakaya pubs, tailor shops, and grocery stores.

Ryogoku Kokugikan — The Heart of Sumo Culture

Next to the Edo-Tokyo Museum stands a building with a green-and-gold roof — the Ryogoku Kokugikan. Ryogoku has long been the home base of sumo, Japan's national sport. The arena, which has witnessed countless historic matches, seats 11,000 people and hosts three of the six annual sumo tournaments (in January, May, and September). During the 15-day tournaments, colorful banners flutter outside the venue. If your visit doesn't coincide with a tournament, you can still visit the Sumo Museum and souvenir shop attached to the arena.

Kabukiza Theatre — A Stage That Carries on Tradition

Kabuki, the most celebrated of Japan's traditional performing arts, emerged in the early Edo period, and works vividly depicting people's daily lives soon followed. When it comes to watching kabuki, the Kabukiza in Ginza is the iconic venue. Even without a ticket, you can fully soak up the kabuki atmosphere. You can also drop by the souvenir shops in the Kobikicho Plaza on the basement level and the rooftop garden on the 5th floor, or visit the nearby Kabuki Inari Shrine.

Nihonbashi — Edo's "Kilometre Zero"

Nihonbashi was first built in 1603, the same year the Tokugawa shogunate was established. This pioneering Edo landmark was the starting point of the Five Routes — the major roads connecting Edo with Kyoto and other important locations across Japan. Today it serves as "kilometre zero," the reference point for measuring distances from Tokyo. The area around the bridge was once the bustling downtown of Edo and a commercial center selling food, clothing, and other goods. Even in the 21st century, the Nihonbashi area retains its Edo-era character, with soaring department stores interwoven with small private shops in the back alleys.

Rikugien Garden — A Stroll Through Edo's Poetic Landscape

Rikugien is a landscape garden designed in 1695 by a high-ranking nobleman, and is a wonderful place to escape the urban bustle and appreciate a different side of the Edo period. An artificial hill and pond sit at its center, surrounded by winding paths. The name "Rikugien" is tied to classical Japanese poetry, and several of the garden's scenic features symbolize poetic themes. The garden is at its most beautiful in spring when the cherry blossoms bloom, and in autumn when the maples and zelkova trees turn fiery red. During these seasons, opening hours are extended and evening illuminations are held.