Japan-Insights
Deepen your understanding of Japan’s people, places, and culture.
Essays
Samurai Art of the Edo Period (1603-1867) - Enjoying Sites and Sights
Timon Screech, Great Britain
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[PDF/955 KB]
Japan’s Edo Period lasted almost 250 years and is still crucial to Japanese self-awareness, and to the
international perception of Japan.
Everyone knows about shoguns, samurai, and geisha. Edo is also extensively drawn on in contemporary popular
culture, such as manga and anime. But what was the Edo Period really like, and what are the special features
of its art and culture?
Introducing a series of sites, this essay provides visitors to Japan with extra information on areas they may already know something about. Travelers are encouraged to see Japan through its regional art, culture, and countryside as well as its major cities.
The Gardens of Tokyo
Jake Davies-Robertson and Fran Culverhouse, two botanical gardeners from the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew in Richmond, London, visit the often unexpected landscapes in Tokyo; their account [PDF/2.1 MB] on background and features is an enthusiastic invitation to follow these explorations. (✪ [PDF/2.1 MB])
Experience Nihonbashi, the center of Edo
A variety of activities - from River-Cruises to Guided Tours around this historic area - near Tokyo Station!