Where did the name Kanto come from?

The name "Kanto" originates from the Japanese term "Kantō," which means "east of the barrier." It historically referred to the region around Edo (modern Tokyo) and was used to describe the area east of the ancient capital of Nara, which was protected by barriers. The Kanto region is now known as a major cultural and economic hub in Japan, encompassing Tokyo and its surrounding prefectures.