San'yōdō
is a Japanese term for both an ancient division of the country and the main road running through the region.
History
San'yodo was one of the main circuits of the Gokishichido 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'yodo, remained cultural markers.
Geography
San'yodo is the southern part of southern Honshu. The region is on the Seto Inland Sea. It has includes eight ancient provinces, including
Aki
Bingo
Bitchu
Bizen
Harima
Mimasaka
Nagato
Suo
The lands of four prefectures is in the region of San'yodo: Hiroshima, Hyogo, Okayama and Yamaguchi.
The modern national highway, Route 2, the San'yo Expressway, and the San'yo Main Line of the West Japan Railway Company, follow the approximate route of the San'yodo.
Related pages
Chugoku region
Comparison of regions of Japan
References
Geography of Japan