Yoshiwara: the Glittering World of the Japanese Courtesan by Cecilia Segawa Seigle is a great social history of Edo’s pleasure quarters. Continue reading Book Review – Yoshiwara: The Glittering World of the Japanese Courtesan
Azumabashi is one of the biggest tourist spots in Tokyo. The bridge is named after a little known shrine. Continue reading What does Azumabashi mean?
Rivers, dead prostitutes, executions, class discrimination, drainage ditches, and naming conventions. This article’s got it all! Continue reading The Arakawa River
Today’s etymology is super easy, but it touches on a fascinating aspect of Edo Period culture and economics. Check it out, y’all. Continue reading What does Kuramae mean?
Why is Yoshiwara called Yoshiwara?
It’s considered one of the most beautiful times and places in Japanese history. But so-called “Western sensibilities” shut it down. But the legend still persists as the a place to go for fun. Western cultures slut shaming Asia again…
Continue reading What does Yoshiwara mean?
