How did Sumida become Sumida? The Sumida River gave the ward its name. Sumida Ward is a special ward in Tokyo. It was created in 1947 by merging Honjo and Mukojima. Before that Mukojima included the town of Sumida. The Sumida River and its history are central to the area.
Sumida’s history stretches far back. In 721 the Mukojima region was part of Oshimago. A ferry dock on the Sumida River connected the city and local areas. Sumida Juku a settlement flourished as a trading center. It was even a central place for Minamoto Yoritomo’s troops.
The Edo government reclaimed Honjo after a devastating fire in 1657. Ekoin temple was built to remember the victims. Ryogoku Bridge was also constructed. Honjo was home to samurai residences temples and shops. This included the home of Kira Yoshinaka. He is famously associated with the 47 Ronin. Mukojima remained a farming village.
After the Edo period Sumida became part of Tokyo. Many factories were built along the Sumida River. Water transportation was convenient and so were the readily available workforces. The Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923 caused significant damage. Mukojima Ward was created in 1932. World War II caused further destruction. Finally Honjo and Mukojima were merged to create Sumida Ward on March 15 1947.
Today Sumida is a bustling area. It has landmarks like the Asahi Beer Hall. This is a striking modern building. It also has the Edo-Tokyo Museum. This shows the history of the area. The Ryogoku Kokugikan the National Sumo Stadium is also there. You can see sumo wrestlers there. The Tokyo Skytree a very tall tower dominates the skyline. Sumida Aquarium is located in the adjacent Tokyo Skytree Town.
Sumida has a rich history and many modern attractions. It is a fascinating place to explore. Its past is interwoven with the Sumida River. Its future is bright. You will surely enjoy exploring this unique ward.