After the Great Meireki Fire, people expected the economy to flourish on account of the Edo's restoration. Therefore, tons of people and commodities moved to Edo.
One of these newcomers was a merchant from Ise Matsuzaka. His name was Takatoshi Mitsui. In those days, most kimono fabric shops sold their products to samurais. Staff of these shops visited samurais' residences and sold on credit.
However, Mitsui started a new style kimono fabric shop for common people in Edo. His customers paid in cash. His business prospered and he became very wealthy. This gave rise to the humble beginning of the Mitsui financial group.
When economy in Edo became active, many servants, craftsmen and laborers moved to Edo. In addition, many other people started their own small business in Edo, such as selling fresh food or working as day laborers.
At the early 18th century, it is believed that Edo's population reached nearly one million.
photo: diorama of Mitsui Echigoya in Edo
I took this photo at the Edo Tokyo Museum. This museum has been closed since April 2022 for major renovation.