Take a stroll through Tokyo's fascinating history

Tokyo may be one of the most technically advanced cities on the planet, but it also has a fascinating history. 

The Japanese capital is showcasing its cultural roots through “Edo Tokyo,” with a renewed focus on the city's historical identity, highlighted by the reopening of the Edo-Tokyo Museum (above) on March 31. 

Before it became known as Tokyo, Japan's capital was called Edo, a fishing village that grew into one of the world's largest cities during the Edo period (1603–1868). 

This era shaped the foundations of modern Tokyo, influencing its urban layout, commerce, arts, food culture, and everyday life. 

Even today, traces of Edo remain woven throughout the city, offering visitors an opportunity to experience history alongside contemporary life.

Following an extensive renovation, the Edo-Tokyo Museum will host immersive exhibitions, large-scale architectural reconstructions, and storytelling that brings daily acrivities and culture to life. 

Across Tokyo, visitors can encounter living history through a collection of sites that continue to shape the city's cultural landscape:

Edo-Tokyo Open-Air Architectural Museum: Located in Koganei Park, this open-air museum (above) preserves historic buildings from the Edo through early Showa periods, allowing visitors to walk through traditional townhouses, shops, and public buildings.

Ryogoku Kokugikan: The heart of Japan's national sport, sumo. Ryogoku has been closely associated with sumo since the Edo period, when the sport developed as both ritual and popular entertainment.

Kabukiza Theatre (Ginza):  Tokyo's principal kabuki theatre, where visitors can experience a performing art that originated in Edo's lively entertainment districts and continues to captivate audiences today.

Nihonbashi Bridge: Once the starting point of the Five Highways of Edo Japan, Nihonbashi symbolised travel, trade, and connection, and remains a historic and commercial centre of Tokyo.

Rikugien Garden: A classic Edo-period strolling garden, Rikugien reflects traditional landscape design inspired by poetry, seasonal beauty, and refined aesthetics.

The Tokyo Metropolitan Government has launched the official platform Journey through Edo's Legacy, featuring curated itineraries, historical insights, and travel inspiration focused on Edo culture.

Additional Edo-themed travel ideas and inspiration are also available on GoTokyo.org, Tokyo's official tourism website.