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The places we inherit. The stories we keep.

Tokyo, through time.

Discover Tokyo’s history, age reference and living heritage.

A city has many beginnings. Ages below count calendar years to 2026 from the stated milestone, not exact birthdays or the first human presence. Illustrations are AI-created artistic interpretations, not historical evidence.

Imagined outdoor arts gathering in contemporary Tokyo, not a specific festival performance.
Imagined outdoor arts gathering in contemporary Tokyo, not a specific festival performance. · AI illustration

Edo shogunate established

Tokyo

423 yearsfrom 1603 CE to 2026

Edo became the seat of the Tokugawa shogunate in 1603, transforming an older settlement into a major political and urban centre. The city was renamed Tokyo in 1868. This reference measures its shogunate era, not the beginning of habitation.

Remember, celebrate, explore

Tokyo Festival 2026: A metropolitan performing arts programme spanning theatres and public spaces. Choose a specific production and check its language, booking and access information; the festival runs across many different venues.

Heritage suggestions are not an event schedule. Check current dates and access with local organisers.

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What comes next?

Learn from the past. Share a better city.

Explore practical ideas for greener, more welcoming places, and prepare a practice to share with another city.

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