This article explores the history and meaning behind the name Tokyo, Japan's bustling capital city. It dates back to 1868 when it was first established as the imperial capital of Japan, with its name coming from two Japanese words: “tō” (meaning “east”) and “kyō” (meaning “capital”). Locals living in Japan often refer to Tokyo simply as "the city" or "the metropolis". Common nicknames for Tokyo include "Tou-chan" (which means big brother) or "Tokyo-san" (which means Mr/Ms/Mrs Tokyo), as well as "Machi" (town), "Kokubunji" (capital area), and others. Other names used for Tokyo over time include Musashi no kuni ("musashi province"), Edo ("estuary"), Yedo ("river estuary") and more. Today, many people refer to Tokyo simply as '