JEDDO, JEDO, or YEDO, the capital of Japan, and the largest city, in that empire, is situate on a gulf on the western side of the island of Nipon, in N. Lat. 35° 32', E. Long. 140°. It stands on a large plain at the head of the gulf, which is here so shallow that vessels generally discharge their cargoes a league or two below the city. Jeddo is said to be 7 miles in length by 5 in breadth, and to have a circumference of 20 miles. It is not enclosed by walls, but is intersected by numerous broad canals and ditches, having on each side high embankments, on the top of which are planted rows of trees. A river of considerable size flows through the town into the harbour. The houses are small and low on account of the frequency of earthquakes. They are built of wood with thin clay walls, and are divided into rooms by paper screens. The floors are covered with mats, and the roofs with shavings of wood. Being thus entirely composed of combustible materials, fires are frequent and destructive. As the families of the princes, lords, and nobility of the empire are obliged to reside continually at Jeddo, there are numerous houses of a superior class. These, however, are only one storey in height, and have no towers. They are distinguished from the other houses by large courtyards, stately gates, and fine varnished steps leading up to the door. There are besides numerous temples, monasteries, and other religious buildings. The imperial palace is near the middle of the town, and is said to be more than 8 miles in circumference. It consists of several palaces or castles, with large gardens and orchards. Besides being the residence of the court, Jeddo contains flourishing manufactures, and carries on an extensive commerce. The population is variously estimated from 700,000 to 1,500,000, and even more. (See JAPAN.)