備前
Bizen Province
備前国 · びぜん
Province
Sanyodo Circuit
Kanji Literal Meaning
"Front Preparation"
True Etymology
Like Bitchū (middle) and Bingo (back), Bizen (備前) means 'front Kibi'—the section of the ancient Kibi region closest to the capital. 'Kibi' was a powerful ancient kingdom that rivaled Yamato before being absorbed. The directional 'front' indicates proximity to Kyoto.
Alternative Theory
Bizen is world-famous for Bizen ware (備前焼), one of Japan's Six Ancient Kilns. The province's unglazed, fire-marked pottery—prized for tea ceremony—embodies the 'front' province's long tradition of refined culture close to the imperial heartland.
Key Facts
| Circuit (道) | Sanyodo |
|---|---|
| Reading | びぜん |
| Active Period | Ancient-1868 |