越前
Echizen Province
越前国 · えちぜん
Province
Hokurikudo Circuit
Kanji Literal Meaning
"Before the Crossing"
True Etymology
The name derives from 'Koshi' (越, crossing/surpassing), the ancient name for the entire Sea of Japan coastal region. Echizen (越前) means 'before/front Koshi,' indicating the section closest to the capital. It was divided along with Echigo (越後, 'behind Koshi') and Etchū (越中, 'middle Koshi').
Alternative Theory
The 'Koshi' root is ancient and its original meaning disputed—it may refer to crossing mountains or passing beyond a natural boundary. The directional qualifiers (front, middle, back) were added as the region was administratively divided over centuries.
Key Facts
| Circuit (道) | Hokurikudo |
|---|---|
| Reading | えちぜん |
| Active Period | Ancient-1868 |