Exploring Public Transportation in the Edo Period of Japan: 5 Key Points
Introduction: Time Travelers
The Edo period (1603–1868) marks a time of peace and prosperity in Japan, lasting for about 260 years. Established by Tokugawa Ieyasu, this era saw significant advancements in culture, arts, and the public transportation system. For visitors from overseas, the public transportation of the Edo period offers a fascinating window into the society of the time. Here, we introduce five intriguing aspects of public transportation during the Edo period, making it accessible to readers unfamiliar with Japanese culture.
1. Roads and Post Towns: The Hubs of Travel
The backbone of public transportation in the Edo period was formed by a network of roads, including the Five Routes, stretching across the country, with post towns set up along these roads. These roads are akin to modern highways, with post towns resembling service areas or small towns. Travelers and merchants used these roads to traverse the country, resting in post towns along the way.
2. Hatago: Early Lodging Facilities
Located within post towns were lodging facilities known as “hatago,” the predecessors to today’s hotels and business hotels. Hatago provided meals and bedding for travelers, offering a place to recover from the day’s journey and prepare for the road ahead. This system ensured that travelers could confidently undertake long distances.
3. Kago and Jinrikisha: Evolution of Transport Methods
Kago, a mode of transport where passengers were carried in a basket by bearers, functioned similarly to modern-day taxis. Meanwhile, the jinrikisha (rickshaw), a more modern conveyance that appeared later, resembled bicycle taxis and became popular in urban areas. These provided efficient and comfortable means for people to reach their destinations.
4. Kawabune and Canals: Waterborne Traffic Networks
Water transport, using boats on rivers and canals, equivalent to today’s ferry services or water buses, enabled goods transportation and people movement between cities. This was especially vital in major cities, where economic activities centered around these waterways. Water transport offered an efficient way to move, leveraging the landscape’s natural features.
5. Public Roles and Regulations: Ensuring Safety and Order
The public transportation system of the Edo period was strictly managed by the shogunate and regional domains, akin to modern traffic regulations. This ensured the safety of travelers and public health, with orderly conduct in road maintenance, post town management, and transportation method usage.
Conclusion
Though the public transportation system of the Edo period differs in many ways from today’s, its foundation of enabling safe and efficient movement for people shares common ground. Roads, post towns, hatago, kago, and water transport were essential elements in the lives and economic activities of the people at the time, and the origins of Japan’s modern transportation culture. Through exploring the public transportation of the Edo period, we gain insights into the wisdom and lifestyle of people from the past.