Changing Japanese Urban System

Abstract

The formation of the modern Japanese urban system likely began in the Meiji Era. The fall of the old Edo government in 1867 brought about the end of the feudal system and paved the way for the modernization of Japan. The old policy of national seclusion, which had severely restricted free interaction with other countries, had existed since the early 17th century. Thus, Japan was still a backward nation in the 1860s. However, the new Meiji government launched an ambitious campaign to acquire and introduce the best of Western culture and technology. Trade with other countries was opened up, and seaports, especially Kobe and Yokohama, began to attract businessmen and merchants from both Japan and overseas, and residential areas for foreigners quickly came into existence. At the same time, these ports became centers for commerce, distribution facilities, wholesalers, warehouses, stores and shops, offices, and other economic functions. In this way, Kobe and Yokohama quickly grew as the gateways to Japan.