Stranger in the Shogun's City

'Stranger in the Shogun City' tells the story of Tsuneno, a woman from a rural village who sought a new life in Edo (present-day Tokyo) during the 19th century.

Amy Stanley reconstructs Tsuneno's experiences through personal letters and historical records, providing insights into the life of a commoner in a bustling metropolis.

The book explores themes of family, work, love, and social mobility during a period of significant change in Japan.

Stanley's narrative offers a nuanced portrayal of a woman navigating the challenges and opportunities of urban life.

It highlights the social and cultural transformations that shaped Japan on the eve of its modernization.