石川
Ishikawa
石川 · いしかわ
Prefecture
Chubu
Kanji Literal Meaning
"Stone River"
True Etymology
The name literally means 'stone river,' describing the rocky, swift-flowing rivers that characterize the region, particularly those descending from the Hakusan mountain range. The Tedori River and other mountain streams carry abundant stones, making 'Ishikawa' a fitting geographical description.
Alternative Theory
Some local historians suggest the name originated with an ancient clan or family named Ishikawa who controlled the area, and the region subsequently took the family name. Both the geographical and clan-name theories remain plausible.
Key Facts
| Capital | Kanazawa |
|---|---|
| Region | Chubu |
| Reading | いしかわ |
| Pre-Meiji Domains | Kaga Domain (Kanazawa Domain) |
| Domain Lords | Maeda clan (前田氏) |
| Established | 1871-present |