隠岐
Oki Province
隠岐国 · おき
Province
Sanindo Circuit
Kanji Literal Meaning
"Hidden Island"
True Etymology
The characters mean 'hidden' (隠) and 'island cape' (岐). The island group in the Sea of Japan was considered remote and hidden—used historically as a place of exile. Emperor Go-Toba (1221) and Emperor Go-Daigo (1332) were both exiled to Oki.
Alternative Theory
Despite being called 'hidden,' Oki was an important waypoint on the Sea of Japan maritime route between Korea and Japan. Its strategic position belied its reputation as a place of exile and concealment.
Key Facts
| Circuit (道) | Sanindo |
|---|---|
| Reading | おき |
| Active Period | Ancient-1868 |