Edo new roads

You're referring to the Edo period in Japan, which spanned from 1603 to 1868. During this time, the Tokugawa shogunate, which was the feudal military government of Japan, invested heavily in infrastructure development, including the construction of roads.

Here are some interesting facts about the roads built during the Edo period:

1. Tokaido: The most famous road of the Edo period is the Tokaido, which connected Edo (modern-day Tokyo) to Kyoto, the former capital of Japan. The road was built in 1601 and was an important route for travelers, merchants, and officials.
2. Five Routes: The Tokugawa shogunate built five major routes, known as "Gokaido," which connected Edo to other major cities in Japan. These routes were:
   • Tokaido (Edo to Kyoto)
   • Nakasendo (Edo to Kyoto via Nagoya)
   • Koshu Kaido (Edo to Kyoto via Kofu)
   • Nikko Kaido (Edo to Nikko)
   • Oshu Kaido (Edo to Sendai)
3. Road Construction: The roads were built using local materials, such as stone, gravel, and wood. The roads were often narrow and winding, with steep inclines and sharp curves.
4. Maintenance: The Tokugawa shogunate was responsible for maintaining the roads, which was a significant task. The government employed a network of road maintenance workers, known as "Kaido-ya," who were responsible for repairing and maintaining the roads.
5. Impact on Trade and Commerce: The construction of roads during the Edo period had a significant impact on trade and commerce in Japan. The roads facilitated the transportation of goods, such as rice, silk, and tea, and helped to stimulate economic growth.
6. Cultural Significance: The roads built during the Edo period also played an important role in Japanese culture. The roads were often lined with temples, shrines, and teahouses, which provided rest and refreshment for travelers.

Overall, the roads built during the Edo period were an important part of Japan's infrastructure development and played a significant role in shaping the country's history and culture.