San'indō

is a Japanese term for both an ancient division of the country and the main road running through the region.Nussbaum, Louis-Frédéric. (2005). "Goki-shichidō" in Japan Encyclopedia, p. 255.  

History
San'indō was one of the main circuits of the Gokishichidō system.  It was first established during the Asuka period. Over centuries, the government functions of the Gokishichido became less important. However, the traditional eight regions, including San'indō, remained cultural markers.

Geography
San'indō is the northern part of southern Honshū.  The region is on the Sea of Japan.Nussbaum, "San'in" at p. 817.  It is a geographic region which has eight ancient provinces,Sale, George et al. (1759).  "Japan," An Universal history, from the earliest account of time, Vol. 30, p. 71. including
 HōkiTitsingh, Isaac. (1834).  Annales des empereurs du japon, p. 65 n3. 
 Inaba
 Iwami 
 Izumo
 Oki
 Tajima
 Tamba
 Tango

The lands of three prefectures is in the region of San'indō: Kyoto, Hyōgo and Tottori.

Today, Route 9, the San'in Expressway, and the San'in Main Line of the West Japan Railway Company follow the approximate route of the San'indō.

Related pages
 Chūgoku region 
 Comparison of regions of Japan

References

Category:Chūgoku region