和泉
Izumi Province
和泉国 · いずみ
Province
Kinai Circuit
Kanji Literal Meaning
"Harmonious Spring"
True Etymology
The name combines 'wa' (和, harmony/Japan) and 'izumi' (泉, spring/fountain). The province was known for its freshwater springs. The 'wa' character was added to give the name an auspicious, Japanese quality. The springs may have served religious or practical purposes for early inhabitants.
Alternative Theory
Before acquiring the 'wa' character, the area was simply called 'Izumi' (泉), spring. The harmony character was likely added in the 8th century when the province was formally established, following the practice of prefixing 'wa' (Japan/harmony) to elevate place names.
Key Facts
| Circuit (道) | Kinai |
|---|---|
| Reading | いずみ |
| Active Period | 和銅年間-1868 |