The Regional Landscape Print

Kanto

Region

関東

🗻Landscape Missing

Fig 1. View of the provinceUkiyo-e Archives

Heart of Modern Japan

Ancient spirits persist amid the neon lights and bustling streets

Kanto Knowledge

Kanto is the political, economic, and cultural engine of Japan, centered around the sprawling metropolis of Tokyo. It is a region of contrasts, where futuristic skyscrapers stand alongside ancient shrines, and bustling urban centers give way to scenic coastlines and mountains on the periphery.

History & Legends

Kanto rose to prominence in the 12th century when Minamoto no Yoritomo established Japan's first military government in Kamakura. Its true golden age began in 1603 when Tokugawa Ieyasu made Edo (modern Tokyo) the seat of his Shogunate. During the Meiji Restoration of 1868, the Emperor moved to Edo, renaming it Tokyo and solidifying Kanto's status as the capital region.

Cultural Heritage

The region is a melting pot defined by 'Edo-ko' (child of Edo) spirit—chic, fast-paced, and novelty-seeking. It is the center of modern Japanese pop culture, including anime and fashion, while deeply respecting traditions like Kabuki theater and Sumo wrestling. The cuisine features dark soy sauce-based broths and Edomae sushi.

Geography

The Kanto Plain is the largest flatland in Japan, allowing for massive urbanization. It is bordered by mountains to the north and west, and the Pacific Ocean to the east and south. Though largely urban, it includes natural escapes like Hakone and the Chichibu mountains.

Chronicles of the Land

1192

Kamakura Shogunate Founded

Minamoto no Yoritomo establishes the first samurai government in Kamakura.

1603

Edo Period Begins

Tokugawa Ieyasu establishes the shogunate in Edo, starting 250 years of peace and urban growth.

1868

Capital Moves to Tokyo

Edo is renamed Tokyo, and the Emperor formally relocates from Kyoto.

Spirits of Kanto

絡新婦

☠☠☠☠☠

Jorogumo

絡新婦

The Jorogumo is a giant spider yokai that can transform into a beautiful woman. It lures men into quiet places, seduces them, and then binds them in sticky webs to devour them later.

tag-spidertag-dangeroustag-seduction

Kanto

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Kirin

麒麟

The Kirin is one of the most sacred divine beasts in Japanese mythology. It appears only during times of great peace or to herald the birth of a sage. It is considered more divine than even dragons or phoenixes.

tag-divinetag-celestialtag-benevolent

KantoKansai

☠☠☠☠

Aka Manto

赤マント

Aka Manto is a famous Japanese urban legend about a malicious spirit that haunts public toilets and school bathrooms. He asks occupants a trick question: 'Red paper or blue paper?' The answer determines their gruesome fate.

tag-urbantag-dangeroustag-ghost

KantoKansai