Fighting the "Flowers of Edo": Tokugawa Firefighters

On February 26th, 1634, the shogunate in Edo established the Daimyo Fire Bridgade (daimyo hikeshi). The Edo period, spanning from 1603 to 1868, was a time of great cultural and economic growth in Japan, yet it was also marked by frequent and devastating fires. A common phrase in use at the time was "Fires and quarrels are the flowers of Edo." (火事と喧嘩は江戸の華) In response to this persistent threat, a unique and highly respected group of individuals emerged: the Hikeshi, or firefighters.

The Hikeshi were established in the early 17th century, as the shogunate recognized the need for an organized approach to combat the regular outbreaks of fire in Edo (modern-day Tokyo), a city largely constructed from wood. The Hikeshi were not a single unified force; instead, they were divided into two main groups: the Machi-bikeshi, who were responsible for urban areas, and the Daimyo-bikeshi, who protected the feudal lords' estates.

The Machi-bikeshi were further organized into units called tobi, which were akin to today's firefighter squads. These units were based in different neighborhoods, and each had its own banner, making it easy for people to identify them during emergencies. The members of these units were often commoners who took great pride in their role, viewing it as a chance to serve their community and gain respect.

The Hikeshi employed various innovative techniques and tools to fight fires. Given the architecture of the period, which primarily used wood and paper for construction, fires spread quickly, and traditional methods of fighting fires were often ineffective. The Hikeshi thus developed a strategy that included both preventing the spread of fires and extinguishing them.

One of their most notable methods was the creation of firebreaks, which involved demolishing buildings in the path of an advancing fire to prevent it from spreading. This drastic measure was a testament to the Hikeshi's primary goal: saving lives, even at the cost of property. They used specialized tools for this purpose, including large hooks and ropes to tear down structures quickly.

Matoi, a flag-like standard on a long pole, was used to communicate between the firefighting groups to coordinate their response. Firefighters also carried buckets and formed human chains to transport water from wells or rivers to the site of the fire. In addition, they utilized a form of early fire extinguisher called a teshaku, a long-handled tool that could be used to spray water or a sand mixture onto flames.

The Hikeshi were more than just firefighters; they were a symbol of bravery and selflessness, embodying the communal spirit of Edo society. Their daring exploits and the risks they took to save others made them popular heroes, celebrated in woodblock prints, literature, and Kabuki theater.

The legacy of the Hikeshi extends beyond their heroic deeds. They contributed significantly to the development of fire safety and prevention measures. Their strategies for creating firebreaks and their emphasis on community involvement in fire prevention laid the groundwork for modern firefighting techniques. Additionally, their efforts led to changes in building practices, with more emphasis on fire-resistant materials and urban planning to mitigate fire risks. Today in many communities across Japan, particularly in winter when fire is at its greatest risk due to low humidities and widespread use of kerosene space heaters, local neighborhood associations called "chonaikai" (町内会) walk through their neighborhoods clapping a "hyoshigi" 拍子木 - or a pair of wooden clappers which are smacked together to get the neighbors' attention, and then they chant "Hi no yōjin" which means "beware of fires!" This practice was originally performed by Edo firefighters. VIDEO

Today, the spirit of the Hikeshi lives on in Japan's modern firefighting forces, which continue to prioritize community, bravery, and innovation. Museums and cultural festivals honor the Hikeshi, ensuring that their contributions to Japanese society are not forgotten. Tokyo firefighters have a regular parade of firefighters and equipment, and also perform traditional ladder tricks dressed as Edo period firefighters VIDEO

The Hikeshi of the Edo period were more than just an emergency service; they were integral to the fabric of Edo society, representing the resilience, ingenuity, and communal spirit of the Japanese people. Their legacy is a testament to the enduring importance of community and cooperation in the face of disaster, principles that continue to guide Japan's approach to disaster management and public safety.