Edo Era: The Awakening of Greatness

I recently had a chance to visit Tokyo, Japan during the cold month of the latter year. Interestingly, Tokyo was not its first name. It was formerly known as Edo. And I can't help but to feel astounded. From their minimalistic sense of order to their respect for everything, apparently, I had the urge to delve more of how Japanese became the way they are. I have to learn from the past!

Image Courtesy: Encyclopedia Britannica
Tokugawa Ieyasu of the Tokugawa Shogunate

Tracing back the history from the Edo period which is Japan's long period of isolation from 1603 to 1868. Edo means bay or entrance. Ruled by the last feudal Japanese military government, the shogun from the Tokugawa clan is the head of the government. The Tokugawa shogunate ruled from Edo castle and the years of the shogunate became known as the Edo Period. During this confined epoch, the country was characterized by economic growth, strict social order and mass urbanization. Edo then grew from the off beaten path of fishing mob to the world's largest city.

Many Christians and foreigners were restricted during the early 17th century. A system called Sakoku was set on which forbids foreigners (except for Chinese and Dutch traders in Hirado and Dejima) to enter Japan and locals were not allowed to leave the country. Ieyasu was suspicious of Christianity and ordered to destroy all churches in Kyoto in 1614. He then exiled Christians to Manila, Philippines.

Influenced by the Confucian principles of social order, the goal of the government was to pacify the country overflowing with inner conflicts. This created balance of power which lasted for centuries.

Then: The Social Class

Image Credit: Wikipedia

The Emperor and Court Nobilities
These top ranking social class may seem unyielding but they have very weak power. Still, they are respected.

The Shogun and Daimyos

The head of the government. The shogun had all the power while the Daimyos were feudal lords whose power was indicated with their closeness to the Tokugawa. They own vast hectares of land and spend half of their time supervising their land and the other half reporting to the shogun in Edo.

The Samurai

They are the warriors of the Edo Era which carry long swords. Apparently, they lived their lives according to the ethic code of busido, "the way of the warrior. They have unconditional devotion to their master, the shogun.

The Peasants

They are farmers. Definitely not wealthy, but not poor either. They were the most advanced farmers in Asia during this period. They rebelled for at least 2,000 times during famine which made them remain peasants for the rest of their lives.

The Craftsman and the Merchants

Considered the lowest class in the society. They do not pay tax for food because they cannot produce their own. They rely mostly on crafts, wood, produce, mats and textiles for income. 

Now: Reaping the Benefits

Though some might think that this 250 years is a bit rough and not to be appreciated, I say yes and otherwise. Imagine yourself living in this era, must be hard right? Especially if you're part or beyond the lowest class. Yes, it is tough to live life during those times.

Yet, looking at the economic standpoint, this was the era of highly developed financial and marketing systems. There was an increased shipping of commodities and significant expansion of local and international commerce. There was a blast of agricultural production and Osaka and Kyoto became the handicraft central in the country. 

Thinking about art and their renowned tea ceremony?
It all started during this period. It became so influential that up to this date, the legacy still remains. 

Image Courtesy: Senchaso
Tea Ceremony or "The Way of Tea"

The Haiku is the Japanese form of poetry, kabuki drama and the gardening and landscaping of bonsai trees were owed during this time. Tourists come to heel just to have a first-hand experience of the famous tea ceremony. 

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Too much in the past had been inherited by the contemporary Japan, I probably won't be able to fit it all to my blog. What matters is the fact that this period had such a great impact of the present day Japan. I wrote this blog because I truly admire the county's state of order and economic stability. Why? Connect the dots from the history up to this date, and it will give you answers.

All people are living histories. The Japanese are living with it the most. With their culture amazingly intact, we can't say much. So learning the linkages between Edo Period and the present Japan is basic for an exceptional understanding of how Japanese live their everyday lives.

I'm no Japanese, but I find it interesting to research on where their philosophies are rooted. I found my answers. I hope you do too.

                     This article is written for Pareta Media