Echigo Province

When Japan extended its territory northward in 708, Dewa District was established under Echigo.

Since the division of Sado in 752, the territory of Echigo remained constant to the Meiji period.

The Hokurikudō highway passed through the province, and numerous post stations were established.

The port of Niigata was also of major importance in the coastal kitamaebune trading system.

Following the establishment of the Meiji government, the various domains and provinces became prefectures with the abolition of the han system in 1871.

Map of Japanese provinces (1868) with Echigo Province highlighted
Hiroshige ukiyo-e " Echigo " in "The Famous Scenes of the Sixty States" (六十余州名所図会), depicting Oyashirazu cliffs.