内幸町Uchisaiwai-chō (Inner Happy Town; as in the inner part of Happy Town, not inner happiness) Quick Etymology Uchisaiwachō derives from Edo Castle’s 幸橋 Saiwai-bashi Saiwai Bridge, which was protected by a fortified gate. 内 uchi means inside. Therefore, Uchisaiwai-chō means … Continue reading What does Uchisaiwaichō mean?
The story of the Kanda River is a story as old as Edo itself. It is part and parcel of the evolution of the city. Continue reading The Kanda River
Formerly part of the outer enclosure of Edo Castle and now a shopping district next to Ginza, Yurakucho is strange name with an elusive past. Continue reading What does Yurakucho 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?
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If read literally, Shibuya means “bitter valley.” However, there are multiple theories about this famous place name’s etymology. Continue reading What does Shibuya mean?
In Tokyo, there’s the Hibiya Line train, there’s Hibiya Park and there’s an area called Hibiya. But what does Hibiya mean? The answer might surprise you. Continue reading Why is Hibiya called Hibiya?
