Shukuba towns in Tokyo were vital stops during the Edo period, serving as key points along the major travel routes. During this era, five main highways, known as Gokaidō, connected various parts of Japan, and along these routes, shukuba towns were established. These towns provided essential services for travelers and merchants, offering rest and resupply points. Today, some areas in Tokyo still retain the traces of these historic shukuba towns.
Nihonbashi was the starting point of the five main highways: Tōkaidō, Nakasendō, Kōshū Kaidō, Ōshū Kaidō, and Nikkō Kaidō. During the Edo period, this area was bustling and served as a commercial and transportation hub. Even today, Nihonbashi retains its historical charm while functioning as a modern business district
Shinagawa-juku was the first shukuba town on the Tōkaidō and is located in present-day Shinagawa Ward. As the first lodging place closest to Edo (Tokyo), it was a vibrant area full of inns and teahouses, bustling with travelers at the start of their journeys.
Itabashi-juku was a shukuba town on the Nakasendō, located in today’s Itabashi Ward. The Nakasendō was a crucial route connecting Edo and Kyoto, and Itabashi-juku was a particularly important stop. It provided not only lodging for travelers but also served as a hub for exchanging goods and information.
Senju-juku was a shukuba town on both the Nikkō Kaidō and Ōshū Kaidō, located in present-day Adachi Ward. As a key transportation junction, Senju was a bustling place frequented by travelers and merchants. It was also an important stop for pilgrims heading to Nikkō Tōshō-gū and for travel to the northeastern regions.
Ōme-juku was a shukuba town along the Ōme Kaidō, located in present-day Ōme City. This town was an essential rest stop for travelers on their way from Edo to Ōme. It was particularly known for being a hub for timber, attracting many lumber merchants. Today, Ōme City is a popular area that combines rich natural landscapes with historical buildings, preserving the legacy of its shukuba town heritage.
Shukuba towns were not just resting places but also centers of cultural and informational exchange. The gathering of travelers from various regions facilitated the flow of diverse cultures and information, contributing to regional development. In modern Tokyo, the history and culture of these shukuba towns are carefully preserved, making them popular tourist destinations.
