東京
Tokyo
東京 · とうきょう
Prefecture
Kanto
Kanji Literal Meaning
"Eastern Capital"
True Etymology
The name was given in September 1868, when the Meiji government renamed Edo (江戸) to Tokyo. The characters mean 'eastern capital' (東, east + 京, capital), positioning it as a counterpart to Kyoto (京都, capital city). The renaming reflected the imperial court's move from Kyoto to Tokyo.
Alternative Theory
The name 'Edo' (江戸), which Tokyo replaced, meant 'estuary gate' or 'bay entrance,' describing its location at the mouth of the Sumida River. Tokyo retained Edo's geographic identity while claiming imperial capital status.
Key Facts
| Capital | Tokyo (Shinjuku) |
|---|---|
| Region | Kanto |
| Reading | とうきょう |
| Pre-Meiji Domains | Edo Shogunate (direct control), various domains |
| Domain Lords | Tokugawa shogunate (徳川幕府) |
| Established | 1871-present |