Chōnin

Chōnin refers to a class of merchant or town citizens in feudal Japan, particularly during the Edo period (1603-1868). This social group was distinct from the samurai, farmers, and artisans, and it primarily included merchants, traders, and professionals who often engaged in commerce and finance. Chōnin played a significant role in the economic development of cities, accumulating wealth and cultural influence. Their lifestyles and values, emphasizing education and commerce, contributed to the rise of urban culture and the arts during this period, marking a shift in power dynamics away from the traditional samurai class.