備中
Bitchu Province
備中国 · びっちゅう
Province
Sanyodo Circuit
Kanji Literal Meaning
"Middle Preparation"
True Etymology
Bitchū (備中) means 'middle Kibi,' the central section of the ancient Kibi territory between Bizen (front) and Bingo (back). The three-part division of Kibi mirrors the division of Koshi (Echizen/Etchū/Echigo) on the other coast.
Alternative Theory
The Battle of Takamatsu (1582) in Bitchū marked a turning point in Japan's unification: Toyotomi Hideyoshi redirected his army here, then raced back to Kyoto upon hearing of Oda Nobunaga's assassination, defeating the Akechi clan and establishing his path to power.
Key Facts
| Circuit (道) | Sanyodo |
|---|---|
| Reading | びっちゅう |
| Active Period | Ancient-1868 |