越後
Echigo Province
越後国 · えちご
Province
Hokurikudo Circuit
Kanji Literal Meaning
"Behind the Crossing"
True Etymology
Echigo (越後) means 'behind/back Koshi'—the furthest section of the old Sea of Japan coastal region from the capital. Of the three Koshi provinces, Echigo was the most remote and the largest, encompassing what is now Niigata Prefecture.
Alternative Theory
Echigo was the home province of Uesugi Kenshin, one of Japan's most celebrated warlords, who rivaled Takeda Shingen in famous battles at Kawanakajima. The 'behind' designation thus became associated with one of Japan's greatest military legends.
Key Facts
| Circuit (道) | Hokurikudo |
|---|---|
| Reading | えちご |
| Active Period | Ancient-1868 |