Have you ever wondered what the old name for Tokyo was? Tokyo, the bustling capital of Japan, has a rich history that dates back centuries. Before it was known as Tokyo, this vibrant city was called Edo.
Edo served as the political center of Japan during the Edo period, which lasted from 1603 to 1868. The city flourished under the Tokugawa shogunate, becoming the largest city in the world by the 18th century.

old name for tokyo
The Old Name for Tokyo: Edo
During the Meiji Restoration in 1868, the emperor moved the capital from Kyoto to Edo, renaming the city Tokyo, which means “Eastern Capital.” Despite the name change, Tokyo continued to grow and develop, becoming the modern metropolis we know today.
Visitors to Tokyo can still see remnants of its Edo past, from historic temples and shrines to traditional neighborhoods like Asakusa and Ueno. The city’s rich cultural heritage is preserved in museums, festivals, and local traditions that have been passed down through generations.
Whether you’re strolling through the bustling streets of Shinjuku, exploring the serene gardens of Rikugi-en, or sampling delicious street food in Tsukiji Market, Tokyo offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern innovation that captivates visitors from around the world.
So next time you visit Tokyo, remember that this vibrant city was once known as Edo, a name steeped in history and tradition that continues to shape the cultural landscape of Japan’s capital.

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