Kyoto

Kyoto was the capital of japan before the central government moved to Edo. The city was chosen because it had easy access to the river which provided food and chances to trade. The city was also surrounded by mountains giving it a good defense and a good place to grow quality tea and mulberry leaves to feed to the silk worm.

The city was also known for its refinement and the production of luxurious material such as silk brocades, fine lacquer, and metalwork. The Bakufu put a few restraints on commerce in the city which made the merchant class rich.

Kyoto was also the center for publishing and became known for its woodblock printing.