
Ōedo Line: Azabu Jūban
Continuing with our 20th installment of exploring Edo-Tōkyō via the Ōedo Line. Continue reading Ōedo Line: Azabu Jūban
Continuing with our 20th installment of exploring Edo-Tōkyō via the Ōedo Line. Continue reading Ōedo Line: Azabu Jūban
The history of Hiroo, or Hirō, which feels like a lame Azabu but is actually in Shibuya. Go figure. Continue reading What does Hirō mean?
Today, Roppongi is a party town. For years it’s been popular with foreigners due to its proximity to so many foreign embassies. Because of this proximity, the area is relatively English-friendly which makes it a destination for foreigners visiting Japan and the seedy businesses that often cater to (or try to take advantage of) foreigners. But in the Edo Period, this was home to sprawling mansions of the elite ruling class. Many of the street blocks still correspond to the locations of these residences. Continue reading Why is Roppongi called Roppongi
Easiest place name ever. Continue reading What does Keyakizaka mean?
Last time we talked about Morishita. Well, the ying to Morishita’s yang is Kiyosumi-Shirakawa. Continue reading What does Kiyosumi-Shirakawa mean?
Middle class and upper middle class samurai? Yes, please! Continue reading What does Ushigome Tansu Machi mean?
Before the Scientific Method arrived, scholars and common folk grouped animals in according to a traditional Sino-Japanese methodology. Today’s place name bears evidence to that grouping methodology.
Continue reading What does Mamiana-cho mean?
Taking a break from the Toshima Clan’s lands, we’ll move back into solidly Tokugawa territory. This will set up a 16 part series that will begin next week. So let’s find out what “Shiba” means in Japanese. Continue reading What does Shiba mean?
Torīzaka is one of the steepest hills in Tokyo. The word Torī would make you think there was a big shrine in the area, but there isn’t. So where did this name come from?
Let’s find out what Torīzaka means! Continue reading Why is Toriizaka called Toriizaka?
Today we’ll hear the story of a general of the Imperial Army who wanted to kill himself but the emperor wouldn’t let him. But more importantly, we’ll learn about the hill that bares his name. Continue reading What does Nogizaka mean?
Why is Azabu Juban called Azabu Juban?
Well, the legend goes that…….