Japan's Three Metropolises

Edo: Large city and government centre

It was a good port that was easily defended

Center of shogun’s military gov’t

Artisans + merchants came to cater their need and needs of shogun + gov’t

Location - easily trade by the sea with Kyoto + Osaka for high-quality goods

By 18th century = population grew to over 1,000,000 ppl. One of the largest cities in the world

To maintain growth = Bakufu initiated new policies

Osaka: Large commercial centre

Developed around a very protected harbour

Ships could easily dock there

Became the center of Japanese economy

Had wonderful markets - before the Edo Era

Famous for its castle - Buddist Temple, and 150 bridges that crossed its rivers and moats

Kyoto: Ancient capital city and home to the emperor

Capital of Japan - before central gov’t moved to Edo

Location - it had easy river access to the sea + was at junction of land routes

Surrounded by mountains - good defence

Known for its refinement + production of luxury items

Merchant class became wealthy + less emphasis on class and status

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