Tokyo — Where Edo Culture Still Lives

Article written by Yoshiaki Maekawa

When people from abroad visit Japan, some of the most common things they’re interested in are anime, Japanese cuisine, shrines and temples, historic architecture, and bushidō (the way of the samurai). The city of Tokyo was established in the early 1600s, when Shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu began building the city. From that time until today, Edo culture has been continuously passed down and remains deeply embedded in the foundation of Japanese culture today.

Even in anime and film, many popular works are based on samurai and ninja, and these themes are widely appreciated by international audiences. Unfortunately, many buildings from the Edo period were lost during World War II, but even so, numerous streets, buildings, restaurants, shrines, and temples that retain the atmosphere of that time still remain. Every time I walk around Tokyo, I’m struck by how many shrines and temples there are. It feels as though the gods and Buddhas are always watching over us. In fact, there are more shrines in Japan than convenience stores. The former Edo Castle, where Japan’s Emperor resides today, also remains intact as the Imperial Palace—preserving the grandeur of the past.

Tokyo is a rare example of a city that is both historical and modern, peaceful and safe—something seldom found anywhere else in the world. One of the underlying elements of Japanese culture is bushidō, which has helped define our values, way of thinking, and sense of morality. This bushidō spirit was passed down through Noh theater, which during the Edo period could only be enjoyed by samurai. As a result, common people adapted the essence of Noh into kabuki, preserving the spirit for future generations. It is this spirit and resolve that continue to live within the Japanese people.

Most Japanese people are welcoming and non-discriminatory toward foreigners. They warmly accept those who are interested in Japanese culture. While the historic landmarks, culinary traditions, and architecture are all visible, it is often the unseen— the heart and hospitality of the Japanese people— that truly captivates visitors.

It’s often said that living in old downtown neighborhoods or rural towns where Edo culture is still alive brings a sense of peace and comfort. Buying real estate in Tokyo means more than just purchasing property—it means embracing a lifestyle of tranquility and deep cultural heritage. The traditions that Japanese people have passed down for generations are what offer this sense of peace and happiness.

Whether as your forever home, a second home, or rental property for travelers, why not consider the value of owning real estate in a rare and peaceful temperate island nation like Japan?