越中
Etchu Province
越中国 · えっちゅう
Province
Hokurikudo Circuit
Kanji Literal Meaning
"Middle Crossing"
True Etymology
Like Echizen (front) and Echigo (back), Etchū (越中) means 'middle Koshi,' the central section of the ancient Sea of Japan coastal region. The three provinces divided the old 'Koshi' territory into thirds based on distance from the capital.
Alternative Theory
Etchū is famous for Tateyama, one of Japan's three sacred mountains, and for its distinctive folk performing art Owara Kaze no Bon (おわら風の盆). The 'middle' designation belies the province's cultural richness.
Key Facts
| Circuit (道) | Hokurikudo |
|---|---|
| Reading | えっちゅう |
| Active Period | Ancient-1868 |