備後
Bingo Province
備後国 · びんご
Province
Sanyodo Circuit
Kanji Literal Meaning
"Behind Preparation"
True Etymology
Bingo (備後) means 'behind Kibi'—the rearmost section of the ancient Kibi kingdom, furthest from the capital. The three-part Kibi division (Bizen/Bitchū/Bingo) represents one of Japan's clearest examples of provincial subdivision following a single geographic and cultural unit.
Alternative Theory
Fukuyama, the main city of former Bingo Province, was established as a castle town in 1619. The province's position as the 'back' of Kibi made it a transitional zone between the Chugoku and Kinki regions.
Key Facts
| Circuit (道) | Sanyodo |
|---|---|
| Reading | びんご |
| Active Period | Ancient-1868 |