San'yōdō

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'yōdō 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'yōdō, remained cultural markers.

Geography
San'yōdō is the southern part of southern Honshū.  The region is on the Seto Inland Sea.Nussbaum, "San'in" at p. 817.  It has includes eight ancient provinces,Sale, George et al. (1759).  "Japan," An Universal history, from the earliest account of time, Vol. 30, p. 71.  including
AkiTitsingh, Isaac. (1834). Annales des empereurs du japon, p. 65 n3. 
Bingo
Bitchū
Bizen
Harima
Mimasaka
Nagato
Suō

The lands of four prefectures is in the region of San'yōdō: Hiroshima, Hyōgo, Okayama and Yamaguchi.

The modern national highway, Route 2, the San'yō Expressway, and the San'yō Main Line of the West Japan Railway Company, follow the approximate route of the San'yōdō.

Related pages
 Chūgoku region
 Comparison of regions of Japan

References

Category:Chūgoku region