Hyūga Province

Hyūga Province (日向国, Hyūga no kuni) was an old province of Japan located on the eastern coast of the island of Kyushu. It corresponds to the modern-day Miyazaki Prefecture. The province was also known as Nisshū (日州) and Kōshū (向州).

History

Hyūga Province was established during the Asuka period, following the Taika Reforms. The province was named after the ancient region and road of Hyūga in the Kojiki and Nihon Shoki. The name "Hyūga" means "facing the sun", reflecting the province's location on the eastern coast of Kyushu.

During the Sengoku period, the province was the site of many battles between samurai clans. The Shimazu clan and the Itō clan were two of the most powerful clans in Hyūga.

In the Meiji period, the provinces of Japan were abolished and replaced with the modern prefecture system. Hyūga became part of the newly created Miyazaki Prefecture.

Geography

Hyūga Province was located in the southeastern part of Kyushu, bordered by Bungo Province to the north and Satsuma Province to the west. The province was known for its fertile plains, which were ideal for rice cultivation.

The province was also known for its beautiful coastline, with the Hyūga Sea to the east. The Miyazaki City was the capital of the province.

Culture

The culture of Hyūga Province was influenced by its location on the eastern coast of Kyushu. The province was known for its unique traditions and customs, including the Hyūga Matsuri, a traditional festival held in the region.

The province was also known for its traditional crafts, such as Hyūga ware, a type of pottery that originated in the region.

Notable People

Several notable people hailed from Hyūga Province, including Itō Suketoki, a samurai of the Itō clan, and Shimazu Tadahisa, the founder of the Shimazu clan.