Tokaido gi usa, or simply "Tokaido", was a historical route in Japan that connected the capital city of Edo (modern-day Tokyo) to the southern provinces. The route played a significant role in Japanese history and culture, serving as a symbol of unity and strength during times of war and peace.

The Tokaido route was established in 1615 by Shōgun Tokugawa Ieyasu, who unified the warring states of Japan under his rule. The route spanned over 1,000 kilometers from Edo to Osaka and Yokohama, passing through various provinces and cities. During the Edo period (1603-1867), the Tokaido route was an important transportation network, facilitating trade, commerce, and communication between different regions of Japan.

The Tokaido route had a profound impact on Japanese history and culture. It symbolized unity and strength during times of war and peace, representing the idea that a unified Japan was a powerful and formidable nation. The route also played a significant role in the development of Japanese industry and technology, with many cities along the route becoming major centers for manufacturing and trade.