The Seto Inland Sea region was the center for much of Japan’s late medieval (14th – 16th c) period’s commercial activity, yet few documents detailing the organization of those trade networks remain – if indeed they were ever written. Using geospatial analysis (GIS) of evidence from written and archaeological records, it becomes possible to trace the flow of goods and people within the Inland Sea region. The environment and geography are central players in this story, affecting the trade routes, networks, and even shipping practices that develop during the late medieval period.

Michelle Damian is an Assistant Professor of History at Monmouth College, IL (USA). She has published chapters in several edited volumes and articles in Japan Forum and Education About Asia. She is also on the Board of Directors for the nonprofit Museum of Underwater Archaeology (http://www.themua.org).

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