also: さいこく
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.
In the term 'western provinces,' the Kyushu region is considered central.
During the Warring States period, the feudal lords of western Japan often formed alliances.
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.
In the Edo period, goods brought from Western countries were highly valued.
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
The pilgrimage to the 33 Kannon temples in the western provinces is still undertaken by many people today.
pilgrimage of the Saigoku 33 Kannon temples
Saigoku 33 Kannon pilgrimage
Standard kanji form; the reading さいごく is more common than さいこく.
Alternate reading; less common than さいごく.
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.