San'indō

San'indō

San'indō (山陰道) is a Japanese term for both an ancient division of the country and the main road running through the region.[1]

History

San'indō was one of the main circuits of the Gokishichidō system. It was first established during the Asuka period. Over centuries, the government functions of the Gokishichido became less important. However, the traditional eight regions, including San'indō, remained cultural markers.

Geography

San'indō is the northern part of southern Honshū. The region is on the Sea of Japan.[2] It is a geographic region which has eight ancient provinces,[3] including

The lands of three prefectures is in the region of San'indō: Kyoto, Hyōgo and Tottori.

Today, Route 9, the San'in Expressway, and the San'in Main Line of the West Japan Railway Company follow the approximate route of the San'indō.

References

  1. ↑ Nussbaum, Louis-Frédéric. (2005). "Goki-shichidō" in Japan Encyclopedia, p. 255.
  2. ↑ Nussbaum, "San'in" at p. 817.
  3. ↑ Sale, George et al. (1759). "Japan," An Universal history, from the earliest account of time, Vol. 30, p. 71.
  4. ↑ 4.0 4.1 4.2 4.3 4.4 4.5 4.6 4.7 Titsingh, Isaac. (1834). Annales des empereurs du japon, p. 65 n3.