Etchu, located in the west of Honshu, is a coastal province plagued by frequent flooding. This proved detrimental to rice cultivation and agriculture until irrigation networks were established during the Edo period. Because of its strategic position, Etchu was the site of many battles throughout history, including the Battle of Kurikara. This marked the turning point in the Gempei War, when the Minamoto victory cleared the way for their undisputed rise to power and the establishment of the first Shogunate.