Edo Five Routes (Gokaido)

Kaido were ancient main roads in Japan dating from the Edo Period. Among them, Edo Five Routes (Gokaido) were one of the most important roads. They have also influenced Japanese cultures. In addition, the present main roads and railways in Japan are basically from kaido in the Edo Period, e.g., Shinkansen. Here will describe the history, the salient features of each of the Edo Five Routes, culture, and Edo Five Routes leading to the future. By seeing Edo Five Routes, we can obtain the key to know the past, the present, and even the future of Japan.


1. Introduction

2. The history of Edo Five Routes

3. Salient features on each of Edo Five Routes

4. The culture relating to Edo Five Routes

5. Conclusion

6. References



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