An Application of Census Boundary Data-Sets for Reconstructing 6 Falconry Fields of the Tokugawa Shogunate: －国勢調査小地域境界データを活用して－

In the mid-18th century, the eighth shogun of Tokugawa Shogunate Tokugawa Yoshimune restored 6 falconry fields named “Okobushiba” in the rural periphery around the city of Edo. The villages of the falconry fields, were designated as bird sanctuaries and villagers were tasked various labor services to support the sanctuary. This study aims to reconstruct the boundaries of these 6 falconry fields by applying present census boundary data sets. The methodology has two advantages over tracing old paper based maps. Firstly, the present census boundaries inherit the old boundaries of the villages during the Tokugawa Shogunate Era. Secondly, the data sets are organized and made easily accessible for use as a framework for various areas of study. This paper will introduce the methodology and processes utilized in the building of the 6 falconry fields.