During the Edo period in Japan (1603-1868), various goods were transported from Edo (present-day Tokyo) to the upper regions, such as Kyoto and Osaka. These goods were known as “nobosemono,” which literally means “upward goods.” In this article, we will explore the types of nobosemono, their historical background, and the impact they had on the economy of the upper regions.
What is Nobosemono?
Nobosemono refers to the goods that were transported from Edo to the upper regions (Kyoto, Osaka, etc.) during the Edo period. The word “nobose” means “upward” in Japanese, indicating the direction of the goods’ movement from Edo to the upper regions.
Although the upper regions had long been known for their developed culture and industries, Edo’s economic power grew rapidly during the Edo period. Nobosemono played a crucial role in supplying the upper regions with specialty products and popular items from Edo, strengthening the economic ties between the two areas.
Examples of Nobosemono
Nobosemono encompassed a wide variety of goods, including:
- Seafood: Fish and shellfish caught in the waters near Edo, such as tuna, bonito, shrimp, and abalone, were highly prized by people in the upper regions.
- Agricultural Products: Vegetables and fruits produced in the areas surrounding Edo, such as Edosaki lotus root and Adachina greens, were also part of nobosemono.
- Crafts: Crafts created by skilled artisans in Edo, such as Edo Kiriko (cut glass) and Edo Kimekomi dolls, gained popularity in the upper regions.
- Books and Prints: Books published in Edo and ukiyo-e prints were highly valued by intellectuals and collectors in the upper regions.
These goods not only served an economic purpose but also helped to convey Edo’s culture and lifestyle to the people in the upper regions.
Nobosemono and the Distribution System in the Edo Period
Nobosemono played a significant role in the distribution system during the Edo period. As Edo became the political and economic center of Japan, it was necessary to strengthen its economic ties with the upper regions. Nobosemono supported this connection by supplying the upper regions with specialty products and popular items from Edo.
The transportation of nobosemono relied on the five major highways, such as the Tokaido and Nakasendo. The development of these transportation routes greatly contributed to the efficiency of the distribution system.
The Impact of Nobosemono on the Economy of the Upper Regions
Nobosemono had a significant impact on the economy and culture of the upper regions. Seafood and agricultural products brought from Edo enriched the culinary culture of the upper regions. Additionally, crafts, books, and prints from Edo were highly appreciated by intellectuals and collectors in the upper regions.
Nobosemono facilitated economic and cultural exchange between Edo and the upper regions, strengthening the ties between the two areas. This exchange greatly contributed to the development of Japan’s economy and culture.
Conclusion
Nobosemono refers to the wide range of goods transported from Edo to the upper regions during the Edo period. Various items, including seafood, agricultural products, crafts, books, and prints, were sent to the upper regions as nobosemono, enriching the economy and culture of these areas. Nobosemono occupied an important position in the distribution system of the Edo period, strengthening the economic and cultural ties between Edo and the upper regions.
