丹後
Tango Province
丹後国 · たんご
Province
Sanindo Circuit
Kanji Literal Meaning
"Behind the Red/Cinnabar"
True Etymology
Like Tamba (丹波, 'front red'), Tango (丹後) means 'behind Tan,' the rear portion of the original Tamba Province when it was divided. The directional system places Tango further from the capital, hence 'behind.'
Alternative Theory
Tango is famous for Amanohashidate, one of Japan's Three Views (日本三景)—a 3.6 km sandbar across Miyazu Bay covered in pine trees. The 'behind the red' name contrasts sharply with the scenic beauty the province became famous for.
Key Facts
| Circuit (道) | Sanindo |
|---|---|
| Reading | たんご |
| Active Period | 713-1868 |