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Edo: The Former Name of Tokyo and Its Cultural Legacy


When you explore Tokyo, you may notice a mysterious word that appears in many names: “Edo.” You might see Edo-style sushi, Edo-kiriko glassware, or even ride the Toei Ōedo Line subway. But what does “Edo” mean, and why is it used so often?

What Is “Edo”?

Edo (江戸) is the former name of Tokyo. The characters mean “bay entrance” (“江” meaning bay or inlet, and “戸” meaning gate), referring to the city’s location at the edge of Tokyo Bay.

From 1603 to 1868, Edo was the seat of the Tokugawa shogunate, Japan’s military government. During this Edo Period, the city grew into one of the largest and most sophisticated urban centers in the world. In 1868, following the Meiji Restoration, the emperor moved to Edo from Kyoto, and the city was renamed Tokyo, meaning “Eastern Capital.”

Although the name “Edo” officially disappeared from maps, it never vanished from people’s hearts, language, or identity. Today, the word Edo lives on as a symbol of traditional Tokyo culture, craftsmanship, and spirit.

Who Were the “Edokko”?

One of the best ways to understand the meaning of “Edo” is through the people who embodied its spirit: the “Edokko” (江戸っ子).

Literally meaning “a child of Edo,” the term refers to people born and raised in Edo (modern Tokyo), often for several generations. But being an Edokko was more than just a matter of birthplace—it was a cultural identity, similar to how we think of Parisians in Paris or New Yorkers in New York.

Edokko were known for their:

  • Fast-talking, straight-shooting personality

  • Pride in their city and neighborhoods

  • Unpretentious, stylish attitude called iki (粋)—a kind of graceful, effortless cool

  • Sense of humor, quick temper, and big heart

They disliked arrogance and valued emotional warmth, spontaneity, and sincerity. Their culture was deeply rooted in the everyday life of common townspeople, and their spirit still echoes in the character of Tokyo today.

“Edo” as a Living Symbol in Modern Tokyo

Even though Tokyo is a thoroughly modern city, the word “Edo” is used in many modern contexts to evoke tradition, authenticity, and old-Tokyo charm. Below are some well-known examples:

 Edo-mae (江戸前) – Edo-Style

Originally meaning “in front of Edo” (i.e., Tokyo Bay), this term came to represent Tokyo’s food culture, especially seafood.

  • Edo-mae sushi is the foundation of today’s popular sushi style. It developed in the 19th century as a kind of fast food, using techniques like marinating and boiling to preserve raw fish before refrigeration existed.

 Edo-kiriko (江戸切子) – Edo Cut Glass

This is a traditional glass-cutting technique from the early 1800s, known for its intricate, geometric patterns. Edo-kiriko is still handmade by skilled artisans today and is prized for its beauty and craftsmanship.

 Edo-komon (江戸小紋) – Edo Fine Patterns

A type of dyed fabric with tiny repeating patterns, originally worn by samurai. Today, it's used in both kimono and modern fashion as a symbol of refined, understated elegance.

 Toei Ōedo Line (都営大江戸線)

A major Tokyo subway line. The name “Ōedo” (Great Edo) pays homage to the city's historical grandeur and connects passengers to many old and culturally rich neighborhoods like Ryōgoku and Ueno.

 Edo-Tokyo Museum

Located in Ryōgoku, this museum explores the transformation from Edo to modern Tokyo through immersive exhibits and reconstructions. It’s a must-visit for those who want to understand the city’s deep cultural roots.

Why Is “Edo” Still So Popular?

In modern Japan, the word “Edo” carries a strong sense of tradition, quality, and authenticity. For businesses and brands, it suggests something genuine, handcrafted, and stylish, often appealing to both locals and tourists. You'll find "Edo" in everything from sweet shops and izakayas to high-end clothing brands and souvenirs.

Just as “Kyoto” conjures up temples and tradition, “Edo” adds a flavor of old-school Tokyo elegance. Knowing the meaning behind the word helps you better appreciate the atmosphere and story behind the places you visit.

Conclusion

Edo is no longer a city name, but it’s very much alive in the identity, pride, and culture of Tokyo. From sushi to glassware, subway lines to slang, the word “Edo” connects the modern metropolis with its historical roots.

So the next time you see the word “Edo” in Tokyo, take a moment to think about the centuries of life, art, and character behind those two little characters: 江戸. It might just add a new layer of appreciation to your journey through Japan’s capital.

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