Tokyo, the largest city in the world, cornucopia turned upside-down, has always required a guide book. Not only are there competing attractions, but many of the best are hidden away. This is as true now as it was back when the city was called Edo and guide books were first appearing.
This was in the 17th century, when guides to the famous sights were on sale, each succeeding title increasingly detailed. And specialized. "A Dappled Cloth of Edo" and "Records of Japanese Efflorescence" provided less official and more personal views.
Before long there were catalog guides such as "The Courtesan's Amorous Samisen," which was a critique that listed ranks, fees and other practical information.