also: さいこく
noun
western Japan; the western provinces
Historically refers to the western part of Japan, especially Kyushu, but sometimes extending as far east as the Kinki region. Often used in historical or geographical contexts.
西国では、九州地方が中心とされる。
In the term 'western provinces,' the Kyushu region is considered central.
戦国時代、西国の大名たちは
During the Warring States period, the feudal lords of western Japan often formed alliances.
noun
Archaic term for Western nations, especially India or Europe, used in pre-modern contexts. In modern Japanese, 西洋 or 欧米 is more common.
江戸時代、西国から伝わった品々は珍重された。
In the Edo period, goods brought from Western countries were highly valued.
noun
the 33 Kannon temples in Kinki; pilgrimage to the 33 Kannon temples
Refers specifically to the 33 temples in the Kinki region dedicated to Kannon (Avalokitesvara), known as 西国三十三所. The pilgrimage to these temples is called 西国巡礼.
See also: 西国三十三所
西国三十三所巡礼は、今でも多くの人が行う。
The pilgrimage to the 33 Kannon temples in the western provinces is still undertaken by many people today.
Compound of 西 (west) and 国 (country/province). The reading さいごく is a regular on'yomi combination, while さいこく is a less common variant.