Edo Eel and the Start of a Summer Tradition

Tempting aromas must have attracted other passers-by to make purchases. From Morisada mankō (Morisada’s Sketches). (Courtesy the National Diet Library)

Cooking eel to sell on the spot. From Jōrurimachi hanka no zu (Flourishing Business in Balladtown) by Utagawa Hiroshige. (Courtesy the National Diet Library)

Many visitors to Edo would make sure to try the local eel. From Shokunin-zukushi ekotoba (Illustrated Story of Craftsmen). (Courtesy the National Diet Library)

Harukiya Zenbei (left) was in what is now the municipality of Chiyoda. From Edo kaimono hitori annai (A Personal Guide to Shopping in Edo). (Courtesy the National Diet Library)