Nihonbashi Bridge in Edo, 1830-1833, Katsushika Hokusai; Publisher: Nishimuraya Yohachi, Japanese, 1760 - 1849, 10 × 14 13/16 in. (25.4 × 37.7 cm) (image, sheet, horizontal ōban), Woodblock print (nishiki-e); ink and color on paper, Japan, 19th century, Nihonbashi Bridge was not only the heart of the city of Edo, but also the terminus of the country's five major highways. It was always crowded with the travelers leaving the city or just arriving. The surrounding area was also a commercial center with all major retailers maintaining shops and warehouses near the bridge.