Tōkaidō (region)

The Tōkaidō (東海道) is a Japanese term for both an ancient division of the country and the main road running through the region.[1]

Tōkaidō

History

Tōkaidō was one of the main circuits of the Gokishichidō system. It was first established during the Asuka period. Over centuries, the government functions of the Gokishichido became less important. However, the traditional eight regions, including Tōkaidō, remained cultural markers.

The ancient Tōkaidō road was improved and widened in 1604.[2]

It is a geographic region which has 15 ancient provinces,[3] including

The lands of five prefectures are in the region of Tōkaidō: Chiba, Ibaraki, Kanagawa, Saitama and Tokyo.

Today, Route 1 is a major national highway that mirrors the route of the old Tōkaidō except in the Tōkyō-Yokohama section.

Route 15 follows the route of the old Tōkaidō between Tōkyō and Yokohama

References
  1. Nussbaum, Louis-Frédéric. (2005). "Goki-shichidō" in Japan Encyclopedia, p. 255.
  2. Nussbaum, "Tōkaidō" at p. 973.
  3. Sale, George et al. (1759). "Japan," An Universal history, from the earliest account of time, Vol. 30, p. 71.
  4. Titsingh, Isaac. (1834). Annales des empereurs du japon, p. 57 n1.



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