A new tourism initiative highlighting the historical, cultural and culinary attractions along Japan’s historic highways has been launched to encourage more international visitors to explore prefectures surrounding Tokyo.
Known as Edo Shogun Roads, the project focuses on the road network that linked present-day Tokyo with neighbouring regions around 400 years ago. The five main routes, known as the Gokaido, radiated from Nihonbashi in central Tokyo to destinations hundreds of kilometres away. Along the routes were checkpoints for security and post towns that provided accommodation and supplies for travellers.
The Kanto District Transport Bureau and the Greater Tokyo Convention & Visitors Bureau are now promoting the initiative through a dedicated website, suggested itineraries and visitor experiences designed to encourage exploration of the routes once used by merchants, pilgrims and samurai.
The project aims to increase day trips from Tokyo and encourage longer stays in the surrounding 10 prefectures, supporting regional economies and sustainable tourism development.
Visitors can also walk or cycle sections of the historic routes and visit landmarks including the Hakone Sekisho checkpoint in Kanagawa Prefecture and the former post towns of Tsumago-juku and Narai-juku in Nagano Prefecture.
Other experiences include hiking in Ozu National Park in Tochigi Prefecture, attending early morning prayers at Minobusan Kuonji Temple in Yamanashi Prefecture and taking part in kendo activities in Fukushima Prefecture.
Edo Shogun Roads will also tie in with Yokohama’s hosting of the International Horticultural Expo 2027 by promoting travel experiences centred on gardens, seasonal flowers and nature.
