What is Nihonbashi and where is it located?

Nihonbashi is a business district situated in Chūō, Tokyo, Japan. Its development originated around the Nihonbashi bridge, which has historically connected two sides of the Nihonbashi River since the 17th century. The district itself extends north and east of the bridge, reaching Akihabara to the north and the Sumida River to the east, with Ōtemachi and Yaesu to the west and Kyōbashi to the south.

When was the first Nihonbashi bridge constructed, and what is the current bridge like?

The first wooden bridge at Nihonbashi was completed in 1603. The current bridge, which stands today, is constructed of stone on a steel frame and was designed by Tsumaki Yorinaka, dating back to 1911.

How is Nihonbashi historically significant in relation to Tokyo's downtown?

Nihonbashi, along with Kyōbashi and Kanda, is considered the core of Shitamachi, which was the original downtown center of Edo-Tokyo. This historical significance predates the emergence of newer commercial hubs like Shinjuku and Shibuya.

What was the primary role of Nihonbashi during the Edo period?

During the Edo period, Nihonbashi served as a major mercantile center. Its early growth was significantly influenced by the Mitsui family, who established their wholesaling business there and developed Japan's first department store, Mitsukoshi.

What historical market was located in Nihonbashi, and what are its modern successors?

An Edo-era fish market was historically situated in Nihonbashi. This market is considered the predecessor to the modern Tsukiji and Toyosu Markets.

What is the significance of Nihonbashi as a reference point in Japan?

Nihonbashi is recognized as the starting point for measuring distances to the capital. Highway signs across Japan indicating the distance to Tokyo actually state the number of kilometers to Nihonbashi bridge, marking it as the 'Kilometre Zero' of Japan.

What historical roads originated from Nihonbashi during the Edo period?

During the Edo period, Nihonbashi served as the eastern terminus for several major roads, providing access throughout Japan. These included the Tōkaidō (connecting Edo to Kyoto along the coast), the Nakasendō (connecting Edo to Kyoto through the mountains), the Kōshū Kaidō (connecting Edo to Kai Province), the Ōshū Kaidō (connecting Edo to Mutsu Province), and the Nikkō Kaidō (connecting Edo to Nikkō).

What major event caused significant damage to the Nihonbashi area in 1945?

The Nihonbashi area was largely destroyed during the massive bombing of Tokyo on March 9-10, 1945, an event considered the single largest air raid in history. Evidence of this destruction can still be seen, as one area of the Nihonbashi bridge retains scars from an incendiary bomb.

How did the administrative structure of Nihonbashi change after World War II?

Following the war, Nihonbashi was a ward of Tokyo City. In 1947, as part of a reorganization that reduced Tokyo's wards from 35 to 23, Nihonbashi was merged with Kyōbashi to form the modern Chuo ward.

What infrastructure was built over the Nihonbashi bridge prior to the 1964 Olympics, and what was its impact?

An expressway was constructed over the Nihonbashi bridge shortly before the 1964 Summer Olympics. This construction obscured the traditional view of Mount Fuji from the bridge.

What efforts are underway to improve the view and environment around the Nihonbashi bridge?

There have been petitions from local citizens to move the expressway over the Nihonbashi bridge underground. This initiative gained traction, with the Tokyo Metropolitan Government and the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism announcing a detailed study in 2017. Construction to relocate a section of the Shuto Expressway underground has commenced and is expected to be completed by fiscal year 2041, aiming to restore the view from the bridge.

What future developments are planned for the Nihonbashi district?

The Nihonbashi area is slated for transformation with the construction of new skyscrapers, which are expected to alter its overall image. Additionally, the relocation of the Shuto Expressway underground is a significant ongoing project.

What is the population of Nihonbashi according to 2019 data?

In 2019, the population of Nihonbashi was recorded as 341 residents.

What key financial institutions and major department stores are located in Nihonbashi?

Nihonbashi is home to significant financial institutions like the Bank of Japan and the Tokyo Stock Exchange. It also hosts major department stores such as Mitsukoshi and Takashimaya.

What is Nihonbashi Bridge's role as the 'Kilometre Zero' of Japan?

The Nihonbashi Bridge serves as the official 'Kilometre Zero' for Japan's road network. This means that all highway distances to Tokyo are measured from this specific point on the bridge.

Describe the ukiyo-e print of Nihonbashi by Keisai Eisen.

The source material references an ukiyo-e print depicting Nihonbashi by Keisai Eisen, created around 1836. This artwork is part of the series titled 'The Sixty-Nine Stations of the Kiso Kaidō'.

What does the image captioned 'Nihonbashi Street in 1937' show?

The image described as 'Nihonbashi Street in 1937' provides a historical view of the streetscape in the Nihonbashi district during that year.

What does the image captioned 'Nihonbashi in 1946' depict?

The photograph labeled 'Nihonbashi in 1946' offers a visual record of the Nihonbashi area in the immediate post-World War II period, likely showing the aftermath of the 1945 bombings.

Describe the ukiyo-e print of the Nihonbashi bridge by Hiroshige.

The source mentions an ukiyo-e print of the Nihonbashi bridge created by Hiroshige, which is featured in the series 'The Fifty-three Stations of the Tōkaidō'. This artwork captures the bridge during the 1830s.

What is depicted in the image related to 'Kilometre Zero' in Japan?

The image associated with 'Kilometre Zero' in Japan shows the marker located in the middle of the Nihonbashi Bridge, signifying its status as the starting point for national road measurements.

What does the image captioned 'Lion on the Nihonbashi Bridge' illustrate?

The image titled 'Lion on the Nihonbashi Bridge' shows one of the lion statues that adorn the iconic Nihonbashi Bridge.

What is the pronunciation difference between Nihonbashi in Tokyo and Nipponbashi in Osaka?

While both places are written with the same kanji (日本橋), their pronunciations differ. Nihonbashi in Tokyo is pronounced [ni.hom.ba.si], whereas Nipponbashi in Osaka is pronounced [nip.po(ɰ).m.ba.si].

Which major companies have their headquarters or significant presence in Nihonbashi?

Several prominent companies are based in Nihonbashi, including Akebono Brake Industry, Bank of America Merrill Lynch, HSBC Japan, KOSÉ, Kureha Corporation, Maruzen, MODEC, Nissan Chemical Corporation, Nisshinbo Holdings, Nomura Holdings, Takashimaya, and Takeda Pharmaceutical Company.

What are some of the key subway stations serving the Nihonbashi area?

The Nihonbashi area is served by several subway stations, including Nihombashi Station (on the Toei Asakusa Line, Tokyo Metro Ginza Line, and Tokyo Metro Tōzai Line), Mitsukoshimae Station (Tokyo Metro Ginza and Hanzōmon Lines), Kayabachō Station (Tokyo Metro Hibiya and Tōzai Lines), and Ningyōchō Station (Toei Asakusa and Tokyo Metro Hibiya Lines).

Which JR railway stations are located in or near Nihonbashi?

The JR railway stations serving the Nihonbashi area are Bakurochō Station and Shin-Nihombashi Station, both on the JR Sōbu Line (Rapid).

What educational institutions are specifically mentioned as being part of the Nihonbashi district's public school system?

Within the Nihonbashi district, the zoned public schools operated by the Chuo City Board of Education include Jōtō Elementary School and Nihonbashi Junior High School.

What was the historical significance of Nihonbashi as a starting point for major roads?

As the starting point for the five major routes of the Edo period, Nihonbashi provided crucial access to various regions of ancient Japan, connecting the capital to distant provinces.

Which post towns were located along the Tōkaidō and Nakasendō roads starting from Nihonbashi?

Starting from Nihonbashi, the Tōkaidō road's first post town was Shinagawa-juku, while the Nakasendō road's first post town was Itabashi-juku.

What is Nihonbashi's classification as a business district?

Nihonbashi is classified as a central business district, indicating its importance as a hub for commerce and finance in Tokyo.

What is the significance of the Nihonbashi Mitsui Tower and the Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo?

The Nihonbashi Mitsui Tower is a prominent skyscraper in the district, and it houses the Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo hotel, contributing to the area's modern business and hospitality landscape.

What historical role did the Mitsui family play in Nihonbashi's development?

The Mitsui family played a pivotal role in Nihonbashi's early development during the Edo period. They established their wholesaling business there and are credited with creating Japan's first department store, Mitsukoshi, in the area.

What is the current status and future plan regarding the expressway over Nihonbashi bridge?

An expressway was built over the Nihonbashi bridge before the 1964 Olympics, obscuring views. There is an ongoing project, approved in May 2020, to relocate 1.8 kilometers of this expressway underground between Kandabashi and Edobashi Junctions, with construction expected to finish by fiscal year 2041, aiming to restore the bridge's visibility and historical context.

What does the term 'Shitamachi' refer to in the context of Edo-Tokyo?

'Shitamachi' refers to the original downtown area of Edo-Tokyo. Nihonbashi, along with Kyōbashi and Kanda, is identified as a core part of this historic district.

What is the significance of the Nihonbashi bridge itself, beyond being a crossing?

The Nihonbashi bridge is historically significant as the point from which all distances are measured to the capital, Tokyo, serving as the 'Kilometre Zero' of Japan. It has been a central landmark since the 17th century.

What are some of the notable places listed within the Nihonbashi district?

Key places within Nihonbashi include the Bank of Japan, the Mitsukoshi and Takashimaya department stores, COREDO NIHONBASHI, the Nihonbashi Mitsui Tower, and the Tokyo Stock Exchange. It is also recognized as the Kilometre Zero for the entire country.

Which major international banks have a presence in Nihonbashi?

Nihonbashi is home to the Japanese operations of major international banks, specifically Bank of America Merrill Lynch and HSBC Japan.

What is the historical context of the Nihonbashi bridge being called 'Edobashi'?

During the 17th century, when Nihonbashi served as a key point on the roads connecting Edo (modern Tokyo) and Kyoto, the bridge was known as 'Edobashi', meaning 'Edo Bridge'.

What is the purpose of the 'Kilometre Zero' marker on Nihonbashi Bridge?

The 'Kilometre Zero' marker on Nihonbashi Bridge signifies the official starting point for measuring distances to Tokyo from various locations across Japan, as indicated on highway signs.

What is the administrative history of Nihonbashi regarding Tokyo's wards?

Nihonbashi was historically a ward of Tokyo City. In 1947, it was merged with Kyōbashi ward to form the larger, modern Chuo ward as part of a reorganization of Tokyo's administrative districts.

What is the significance of the Nihonbashi area in relation to modern commercial centers like Shinjuku and Shibuya?

Nihonbashi represents the historical downtown center of Edo-Tokyo, known as Shitamachi. It is contrasted with newer, secondary commercial centers that have risen in prominence, such as Shinjuku and Shibuya.

What is the Nihonbashi district's geographical extent?

The Nihonbashi district covers a substantial area extending north and east from the Nihonbashi bridge. It reaches as far north as Akihabara and as far east as the Sumida River, with Ōtemachi and Yaesu to its west and Kyōbashi to its south.

What is the role of the Nihonbashi bridge in the context of the Tōkaidō and Nakasendō roads?

The Nihonbashi bridge served as the eastern terminus for both the Tōkaidō and Nakasendō roads during the 17th century. These roads were crucial routes connecting the former capital, Kyoto, with Edo (present-day Tokyo).

What is the purpose of the 'More citations needed' notice at the beginning of the article?

The 'More citations needed' notice indicates that the article requires additional sources to verify its information. It encourages readers to help improve the article by adding citations to reliable sources, as unsourced material may be challenged or removed.

What is the significance of the Nihonbashi area in terms of finance?

In later years, Nihonbashi evolved to become Tokyo's, and indeed Japan's, predominant financial district, housing major financial institutions and the Tokyo Stock Exchange.

What is the meaning of the Japanese characters for Nihonbashi?

The Japanese characters for Nihonbashi (日本橋) translate to 'Japan Bridge'.

What is the current status of the expressway project over Nihonbashi bridge?

Construction has commenced to relocate 1.8 kilometers of the Shuto Expressway underground in the Nihonbashi area, between Kandabashi and Edobashi Junctions. This project is expected to be completed by fiscal year 2041.

What is the historical context of the Nihonbashi bridge being replaced by a stone structure?

The original wooden Nihonbashi bridge was replaced during the Meiji era by a larger stone bridge, which is the structure that still stands today. A replica of the older wooden bridge is exhibited at the Edo-Tokyo Museum.

Nihonbashi Wiki: Nihonbashi: Tokyo's Historic Nexus of Commerce and Connection

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Overview

The Heart of the Capital

Nihonbashi, situated in Chuo City, Tokyo, is a central business district that originated around the Nihonbashi River bridge, a pivotal crossing since the 17th century. It represents the historical core of Edo-Tokyo, predating newer commercial centers like Shinjuku and Shibuya.

The Iconic Bridge

The original wooden bridge, completed in 1603, gave the area its name. The current stone bridge, a testament to early 20th-century engineering, dates from 1911. Nihonbashi serves as Japan's "Kilometre Zero," the reference point for all national highway distances to Tokyo.

Modern Significance

While retaining its historical character, Nihonbashi is a vibrant commercial hub, home to major financial institutions, department stores, and corporate headquarters. It continues to be a significant center for commerce and culture in contemporary Tokyo.

Historical Trajectory

Edo Period Prosperity

During the Edo period, Nihonbashi flourished as a major mercantile center. The influential Mitsui family established their wholesaling business here and pioneered Japan's first department store, Mitsukoshi. The area also hosted the precursor to modern fish markets.

Financial Center Emergence

In later eras, Nihonbashi evolved into Japan's primary financial district. Institutions like the Bank of Japan and the Tokyo Stock Exchange established their presence, solidifying its role in the nation's economic landscape.

Resilience Through Adversity

The district suffered significant damage during the 1945 bombing of Tokyo. Despite restoration efforts, scars from incendiary bombs remain on the Nihonbashi bridge, a poignant reminder of the city's resilience. The area was merged into the modern Chuo Ward in 1947.

Modern Redevelopment

The construction of an expressway over the Nihonbashi bridge before the 1964 Olympics obscured views and altered the landscape. Current initiatives aim to move sections of this expressway underground, revitalizing the area and restoring its historical vistas.

Key Landmarks

Bank of Japan

The headquarters of the central bank, a significant architectural and financial landmark in the district.

Department Stores

Iconic retailers like Mitsukoshi and Takashimaya have flagship stores here, representing Nihonbashi's long history as a center for commerce and retail innovation.

Nihonbashi Mitsui Tower

A prominent skyscraper housing the Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo, offering panoramic city views and symbolizing the district's modern development.

Tokyo Stock Exchange

The historical and operational center for Japan's stock market, underscoring Nihonbashi's role in the nation's financial sector.

Kilometre Zero

The symbolic starting point for Japan's highway network, marked on the Nihonbashi bridge, signifying its central importance.

Prominent Businesses

Corporate Presence

Nihonbashi hosts the headquarters or significant operations for numerous major Japanese and international corporations, reflecting its status as a premier business locale.

Akebono Brake Industry
Bank of America Merrill Lynch Japan
HSBC Japan
KOSÉ Corporation
Kureha Corporation
Maruzen
MODEC
Nissan Chemical Corporation
Nisshinbo Holdings
Nomura Holdings
Takashimaya
Takeda Pharmaceutical Company
IBM Japan (Hakozaki Facility)
Daiichi-Sankyo
Mitsui Fudosan
Mitsukoshi
Sembikiya
Woven Planet
Shinsei Bank

Organizations

The district also serves as a base for important organizations, fostering connections and collaborations within the business community.

Japan-India Association

Transportation Hub

Historical Routes

Nihonbashi was the starting point for Japan's five major Edo-period highways, connecting the capital to distant provinces and facilitating national travel and commerce.

Tōkaidō (to Kyoto)
Nakasendō (to Kyoto via mountains)
Kōshū Kaidō (to Kai Province)
Ōshū Kaidō (to Mutsu Province)
Nikkō Kaidō (to Nikkō)

Modern Connectivity

The area is well-served by an extensive network of subway and railway lines, ensuring seamless connectivity throughout Tokyo and beyond.

Nihombashi Station (Ginza, Tozai, Asakusa Lines)
Mitsukoshimae Station (Ginza, Hanzomon Lines)
Kayabachō Station (Hibiya, Tozai Lines)
Ningyōchō Station (Hibiya, Asakusa Lines)
Bakurochō / Bakuro-Yokoyama / Higashi-Nihombashi Stations (JR, Toei)
Tsukishima Station (Toei, Metro)

Educational Institutions

Learning Centers

Nihonbashi is associated with educational facilities that serve the local community, contributing to the area's development.

St. Luke's International University
Waseda University Nihonbashi Campus
Chuo Elementary School
Taimei Elementary School
Nihonbashi Junior High School

Visual Archive

Artistic Depictions

Historical prints and photographs capture the essence and evolution of Nihonbashi, showcasing its enduring cultural and architectural significance.

Nihonbashi Street view

Mitsui Headquarters

Nihonbashi Bridge

Mitsukoshi Flagship Store

Takashimaya Flagship Store

Kilometre Zero marker

Bank of Japan

Ukiyo-e print of Nihonbashi by Keisai Eisen

Nihonbashi Street in 1937

Nihonbashi in 1946

Nihonbashi bridge by Hiroshige (1830s)

Kilometre Zero on the bridge

Lion statue on Nihonbashi Bridge

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References

"Corporate Profile." KOSÃ. Retrieved on February 12, 2017.

"Corporate Profile." Kureha Corporation. Retrieved on November 21, 2018.

"Corporate Profile." MODEC. Retrieved on February 25, 2019.

"Corporate Profile." Nisshinbo Holdings. Retrieved on February 13, 2017.

"Company Outline." Nomura Holdings. Retrieved on February 15, 2017.

"Company Profile." Shinsei Bank. Retrieved on February 15, 2017.

A full list of references for this article are available at the Nihonbashi Wikipedia page

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Disclaimer

Important Notice

This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on publicly available data and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date.

This is not professional advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for professional historical, geographical, or urban planning consultation. Always refer to official sources and consult with qualified professionals for specific needs.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.

Nihonbashi: Tokyo's Historic Nexus

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Overview 🗺️

📍 The Heart of the Capital

🌉 The Iconic Bridge

🏙️ Modern Significance

Historical Trajectory ⏳

📜 Edo Period Prosperity

🏛️ Financial Center Emergence

🔥 Resilience Through Adversity

🏗️ Modern Redevelopment

Key Landmarks 🏛️

🏦 Bank of Japan

🛍️ Department Stores

🏢 Nihonbashi Mitsui Tower

📈 Tokyo Stock Exchange

📍 Kilometre Zero

Prominent Businesses 💼

🏢 Corporate Presence

🤝 Organizations

Transportation Hub 🚄

🛣️ Historical Routes

🚇 Modern Connectivity

Educational Institutions 🎓

🏫 Learning Centers

Visual Archive 🖼️

🎨 Artistic Depictions

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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References

📜 References

Feedback & Support 👍

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Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Overview

The Heart of the Capital

The Iconic Bridge

Modern Significance

Historical Trajectory

Edo Period Prosperity

Financial Center Emergence

Resilience Through Adversity

Modern Redevelopment

Key Landmarks

Bank of Japan

Department Stores

Nihonbashi Mitsui Tower

Tokyo Stock Exchange

Kilometre Zero

Prominent Businesses

Corporate Presence

Organizations

Transportation Hub

Historical Routes

Modern Connectivity

Educational Institutions

Learning Centers

Visual Archive

Artistic Depictions

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice