---
title: "Edo Period — AP Art History Definition & Required Works"
description: "The Edo period (1603-1868) was Japan's era of Tokugawa rule, peace, and urban growth that produced ukiyo-e prints like Hokusai's Under the Wave off Kanagawa."
canonical: "https://fiveable.me/ap-art-history/key-terms/edo-period"
type: "key-term"
subject: "AP Art History"
---

# Edo Period — AP Art History Definition & Required Works

## Definition

The Edo period was a time in Japanese history (1603-1868) when Japan was under the rule of the Tokugawa shogunate. It was characterized by relative peace and stability, urbanization, economic growth, strict social hierarchy, isolationist policies towards foreign countries, and flourishing arts and culture.

## Related Study Guides

- [8.5 Unit 8 Required Works](/ap-art-history/unit-8/unit-8-required-works/study-guide/Ji2gwBQXN1c4YsWcAjOq)

## Review

### Related Terms

- [Ukiyo-e](/ap-art-history/key-terms/ukiyo-e): Woodblock prints that became popular during the Edo period depicting everyday life scenes such as kabuki actors, geisha, landscapes, and famous places.
- Kabuki Theater: A form of traditional Japanese theater that originated during the Edo period featuring elaborate costumes, stylized acting, and dramatic storytelling.
- Tokugawa shogunate: The military government that ruled Japan during the Edo period, led by the Tokugawa family.