recursal/Fanatic-Fandom huggingface dataset:
Hasetsu no Hōra

**Hasetsu no Hōra** [海質の威火, 1447-1521] was a noble lady, *akame* and retainer of the Daimi clan during the Teijō period. She was the daughter of Hasetsu no Gakkō and an unknown concubine, and was the elder half-sister of Hasetsu no Toru. Hōra had knowledge in strategy and fighting, and was also the wet-nurse of Daimi no Shunji. She is perhaps best known for becoming a valued political advisor and administrative assistant, choosing to dedicate herself to the affairs of the Daimi clan and actively involving herself in Daimi no Shunji's political and strategical decisions.

Hasetsu no Hōra came from the Hasetsu clan, who were the governors of Hasetsu Province and vassals of the Daimi in northern Kanton. Hōra was interested in, and had an aptitude for, both martial arts and military skills. She became the teacher of her younger brother Toru, who would succeed the leadership of the Hasetsu clan in the years to come. After the birth of Daimi no Shunji, when Hōra was 20 years old, she was offered the position of wet-nurse and mentor of the child. Hōra agreed, and seemingly had a strong influence on both the personality and attitude which Shunji later formed.

Hōra was a prominent figure in many of the political matters of the Hasetsu and Daimi clans. She was an advocate for Shunji's campaigns across northern Kanton, and believed it was wise to unite the disparate clans under a single banner. Meanwhile her husband, Taii no Uda, was against the campaigns and in 1485 decided to surrender to the Daimi instead of continuing the fight. Daimi no Shunji agreed, but only if the Taii could surrender their territory, too. Uda kidnapped Shunji's father Shundō; both Shundō and Uda were killed in the following skirmish. Hōra escaped with her son, Taii no Udamuta, who was an infant at the time. She was later discovered by Daimi troops and brought to Asari Castle, the seat of the clan.

In 1490, during the last of Shunji's northern campaigns against the Ashiyami, he appointed Udamuta (then eight years of age) as a junior page to serve in the Daimi army. Hōra also requested if she might also join the army, and was approved to become an akame (warrior noblewoman) for the Daimi. Shunji was soon impressed by her skill, cunning and knowledge. He gave her the title of senior advisor in 1494. In 1500, she moved to join her brother and his family at Kōryō Castle. She never remarried, and remained childless. Eventually she died in 1521, at the age of 74.
Awara River

The **Awara River** [俺芽免 あわら・み] is a river which runs through the prefectures of Tsuba and Kōfu in the Honzuranō region. It is one of the largest rivers of northern Kanton, and is considered important for the irrigation of crops such as rice and tea.

The river flows through a valley region in Kōfu known interchangeably as the Awara Delta or Awara Valley. This valley remained undeveloped for centuries due to its constant flooding which caused the arable land to become boggy and prevented agriculture. Flood control projects were begun in the later half of the 20th century; the Awara's course was straightened in the 1970s, and now a large residential zone exists along the southern half of the river.
Heibaku

**Heibaku** [澤吐昆; へいばく] is the world between Ueshino [the celestial realm] and Tsukarai [the underworld] in the Kiren religion. It can be compared to the realm of Midgard in the Norse mythos, as it represents the plane of the living, nature and ecosystems: Earth. Heibaku was once used as an alternate name for Kanton during the Nittori period, although it often specifically referred to the great plains of the west.

Literally translated, *heibaku* means 'place/realm of the flat plains'. It was considered the middle section of the Yōijō, or Universal Tiers, which made up the different planes of existence in the Universe. Traditionally, it is believed that Heibaku lies in the mid-tier, while Tsukarai is located below (literally, an underworld) and Ueshino is located in the sky or clouds.
Koroi

**Koroi** [档昆 ころい] is a city located in central Arami Prefecture. As of 2022, it has a population of around 23,000.

Koroi is situated on a flat plain beneath the foothills of Mount Iyadō. Lake Mudoma takes up a large portion of its eastern district, while the Gangotsu River flows down from the hills through its north. A notable geographical feature is the Sakatsu Gorge, a canyon located on the Gangotsu at its lowest elevation. This scenic site can receive thousands of visitors a year. Other attractions within Koroi include Ganyama Temple,

The economy of Koroi is dominated by agriculture, including livestock production, with wheat and oats being the dominant crop. In the manufacturing industry, the city has factories for the production of computer parts, food processing, furniture and ceramics.
Chissaro

A **chissaro** [芻帯; ちっさろ] is a traditional Kantonese garment, best described as a raincoat made from straw. Traditional chissaro only cover the back and arms of the wearer, although versions which shield both one's front and back do exist.

Most varieties of straw have water repellent properties. Raindrops striking a mat of straw will tend to flow along the fibers of the mat, rather than penetrate underneath it. For this reason, traditional Kantonese rain gear was often made of straw, which has the added benefits of being cheap to acquire, easy to weave and fasten, and light in weight. It is, however, bulky in size, and highly flammable. In earlier eras, straw clothing had an additional advantage: it afforded a significant degree of camouflage in certain terrain, particularly forests, meadows and wetlands, similar to modern ghillie suits.

As synthetic fibers and later plastics were introduced to Kanton, chissaro lost much of their practicality and fell out of use. Today, however, they are still worn as costumes in various traditional folk traditions and festivals, such as the New Year celebration Nonori-Kōki, where men dress as the demonic beings *nonori* wearing masks and straw mantles.
Fuyumizu

**Fuyumizu** (优水) is a city located in western coastal Heisai Prefecture. As of 2022, it has a population of around 42,000.

The area of present-day Fuyumizu was part of ancient northern Kantai Province, and was ruled by the Senyama clan. It began as a fishing and port village and flourished during the 1400s as a lodging town (*koman*) located on the Salt Road.

## Geography

Fuyumizu is located on the Heisai coast, south of Shinomi and north of Hotsuyama. It borders Yukigata to the east. The Sakatoshi River flows through the centre of the city, and Lake Komuno lies in its eastern ward.

## Economy

Fuyumizu's economy is dominated by fishing and commercial industry.

## Local attractions

- Amigaki temple ruins

- Fuyumizu Castle & grounds

- Fuyumizu Park

- Abushi Peony Garden

- Fuyumizu Museum

- Chabun district - traditional town with many old teahouses
Hongyū

**Hongyū** [苒唱; ほんぎゅう] was a form of theatre popular in Kanton during the 11th to 14th centuries. It originated from an earlier form of entertainment called *kappori*. Early hongyū was reminiscent of the modern-day circus, with acrobatics, juggling, and pantomime, sometimes combined with drum dancing. Hongyū came to Kanton from China in the 8th century and there mingled with indigenous tradtions, particularly the existing entertainment of the peasantfolk.

By the 1100s, the public began to favour more comic sketches while other elements (such as contortions and acrobatics) had faded away. By the mid-Nittori period, hongyū was an umbrella term for all sorts of (generally impromptu) entertainment, like dancing, comic dialogues, singing, short plays, sketches, and musical arrangements. The refinement and formality of a hongyū performance could vary, but since it was performed exclusively by the serfdom, it was never intended to be overly elaborate, stylised or restricted.

During the 1300s, there was increased standardisation of words, gestures, musical themes, and combinations of activities; additionally, specific playwrights and actors associated with hongyū began to emerge, such as Yōsaka and his son Mizuzake no Tanyō. Gīkyū also developed from later hongyū. Of particular significance were the hongyū troupes who emerged around the capital during the late 1300s. The Yōsaka Theatre Company, run by Yōsaka and a number of other writers and actors, performed before the manza Yūtei no Hōsō in 1370 and convinced him of the 'art' of modern hongyū drama. Although hongyū had originated as a type of entertainment only available and understood by commoners, it became widely appreciated in its comedic value, charming rusticness and informal nature with the nobles of Kanton.

Hongyū gave way to the more popular and refined jūkyū by the 15th century.
Aoma Public University

**Aoma Public University** [碧岩滄盖含；あおま・そうがいはん] is a public university located in the city of Aoma, Aoma Prefecture, established in 1976. It was originally known as Aoma Public College until 2003. The university has a focus on business and finance. Its faculties include:

* Department of Management
* Department of Economics
* Department of Engineering
Asuyama Castle

**Asuyama Castle** [沈山莽；あすやま・がく] was a 14th-century castle located in what is now the city of Hitama, Tomono Prefecture.

Asuyama Castle was located on a small hill known as Mount Asuyama, a 200-metre tall hill located to the east of central Hitama on the western edges of the Tōwara Valley, bordered by the Kinozata River and the foothills of the Kiyama Mountains. The location is a strategic point commanding the corridor of the nearby valley and gave the castle geographic protection. The site has been protected as a National Historic Site since 1990. The castle was also known as Hitama Asuyama Castle.
Hado Coast

The **Hado Coast** [肺個筌 はど・さい, also known as Hado Beach] is a section of coastline located in the northern ward of Usamae in Aoma Prefecture.

The coastline includes both sandy and rocky beaches, although the latter is far more prevelant. For the most part Hado consists of an elevated coast noted for its jutting cliffs and scenic ocean views. Hadomi Lighthouse is a lighthouse located on Hado which has traditionally guided ships towards Usamae Harbour.
Geishi

**Geishi** [導生; げいし, 1684 - 1765] was a travelling monk and Kiren missionary who sought to bring Kiren teachings to the Summui during the Kantonese colonisation of the Honnan islands. He was the head of the Takabō Order, a band of missionaries which he himself founded. Although beginning his life as a missionary of his own accord, Geishi was later commissioned by Emperor Shinjin and became instrumental in expanding Imperial influence and control over the native population.
Lake Kano

**Lake Kano** [樫匆; かの・く] is a lake located in central Zōhai Prefecture, in the southern ward of Nasamazu. The lake is bordered by the Doshō Mountains to the west and the Torichi range to the south.

The red salmon (locally called '*karupe*'), introduced into Lake Kano in 1895, has become a noted product of the area and *karupe* fishing is now a popular local pastime in summer. A visitor centre, various campgrounds and *reijo* resorts provide facilities for tourists coming to the area.

The lake is famous for having a device (known as an 'Indian fish wheel') situated in the nearby Kanozake River which can collect salmon returning to spawn at Lake Kano. The wider area surrounding the lake is particularly marshy and wet, and is known generally as the Kanoume Wetlands.
Aoma dialect

The **Aoma dialect** [碧岩丞言; あおま じょうげん] is spoken primarily and almost exclusively in Aoma Prefecture, in the far north of Kanton. It is widely considered by native speakers to be the most informal, rustic and ‘unrefined’ dialect in the country, and often has connotations of backwardness and naivety, although Aomans are also thought to be very warm people generally. Unfortunately in most media [especially comedy] they are often portrayed as well-meaning, bumbling and rather idiotic types who have few manners or knowledge of proper etiquette.

The Aoma speech shares similarities with other northern dialects. Perhaps its closest relative is the Hamae dialect.

## Varieties

The Aoma dialect is split into two main varieties: the Funagi dialect, which has a harsher tone and is spoken primarily on and around the Funagi peninsula, and the Aoma-heiba dialect, which is more common and spoken throughout the prefecture at large. The latter also has a number of subtypes depending on specific regions.

## Features

* - Vowels are drawn-out noticeably. However, in words which have a vowel followed by a /n/, the vowel becomes reduced considerably, and emphasis is placed on the /n/ instead. There is also some aspiration. For example: 丞言 [jōgen, dialect] would become /jo:ogənuh/.
* - Vowel diphthongs [e.g. ai, ae, ei] are especially drawn out, with a greater emphasis on the last sound. A Standard speaker would pronounce 遥者 [saisa, celebrity] as /sai.sa/. An Aoman would pronounce this word as /sa:i:sə/.
* - /m/ and /b/ are likely to get mixed up and switched around, often at random, though rarely at the beginning of words.
* - The standard polite negative conjugation, -さん, becomes -ごない.
* - In direct adjectives, the particle of -い changes to -の. E.g. beautiful woman = 亮の女.
* - Combinations of /n/ and /m/ side-by-side in a word will result in a merged /m/ sound. For example: 電槇 [でんまき] becomes でっまき.
* - The prohibitive mood changes from -かせん to -がん /ga:nuh/.
* - The imperative mood also changes slightly. From Standard -ようせん it becomes -よしい.
* - Intervocalic /g/ is very likely to become /ŋ/.
* - Intervocalic /z/ is very likely to become heavily aspirated /s/.
* - Questions are marked by the particle -なあ.

## Common vocabulary

* なあう - I, me [neutral]
* ぼう - you [neutral]
* めっちゃ - nice, agreeable, good
* とうつう - difficult, hard, labourious [this word has recently entered in Standard slang, and is often used by non-Aoman young people]
* ぼとん - friend, companion
* がっさ - but, however
* だん - field, pasture
* ねえぎ - money
* たば - to eat
* おっそい - cold
* ぬれえ - warm
* そうぐに - countryside
* どて - very, really
Hasaishi

**Hasaishi** [海险 はさいし] is a city located in coastal Mikei Prefecture. As of 2022, it has a population of around 19,000.

Hasaishi is located on the Yamanoshi Headland, beneath the foothills of Mount Issai. The Shinata River runs through the centre of the city. Hasaishi is one of only two modern coastal cities in the prefecture, along with its neighbour Yonzu; the two municipalities were once divided into smaller towns and villages, but these were absorbed during the late 19th century. For over seven centuries, the areas of modern Hasaishi and Yonzu were known collectively as Nijūmugi or 'twelve bays', referring to the twelve fishing villages which existed there.

The economy of Hasaishi is based on commercial fishing and tourism, to a lesser extent. Some agriculture is also maintained. Traditionally, a large number of the population worked in fishing, seaweed production, and also rice farming. This has changed significantly in recent years with younger residents increasingly commuting to manufacturing and service jobs around the Hokuyama region.

## Local attractions

* Nijūmugi Temple
* Hasaishi Port Festival
* Hasaishi Fishing Museum
* Nōjin Lighthouse
* Hengata Beach
* Hasaishi Beach
* Kurosuke Beach
Kanozake River

The **Kanozake River** [樫煮免; かのざけ・み] is a river located in south-eastern Zōhai Prefecture. It deposits into Lake Kano, after which it was named, and its source lies in the northern foothills of the Torichi range. The Kanozake flows through the northern ward of Myōri and into the east end of Nasamazu.
Jūnagai

**Jūnagai** [十那萦; じゅうながい] is a coming-of-age festival celebrated in Kanton, held for boys and girls who have reached the age of ten by the 8th of January after the New Year. It was historically a celebration of the fact that the children had survived for so long, in a time when child mortality was at its height. Jūnagai is considered an important rite of passage for ten-year-olds into puberty.

## History

Jūnagai is said to have originated in the 1200s amongst clan nobles who would celebrate the passage of their children into puberty with a day of festivities. This custom was eventually passed down through the social classes, becoming a common practice amongst all Kantonese regardless of social standing by the 1400s. In many villages, women who had given birth in the weeks leading up to the event would also name their babies on the day of Jūnagai; however, this is rarely seen in modern times.

Historical customs for children on Jūnagai are also very different to the ones used today. For a start, there are far fewer 'rules' for modern-day ten-year-olds on the day. At one time, girl-children would wear *jusō* (special robes for teenage girls) for the first time, and boys would tie their hair up in a bun style known as *bōbun*. Also, children would be allowed to eat certain foods which they were previously discouraged from consuming. It was understood that a child's diet was intrinsic to their growth, but there were also many superstitions about certain foods and the harm they could do to a child's heart, mind or body. For example, traditionally Kantonese children were not allowed to eat shellfish until the day of Jūnagai. It is thought that these customs stem from the old belief that children are part-deity, part-human, and that a small piece of their soul is in fact holy and connected to a guardian spirit of some sort. Therefore, harming children or even feeding them the wrong food could offend their inner spirit and bring misfortune upon their family.

The date in use today was set to the 8th of January in the 1920s - before then, Jūnagai would usually take place on the tenth day of the New Year.
Heisan

**Heisan** [兵山 へいさん] is a city located in north-eastern Hamae Prefecture. As of 2022, it has a population of around 11,000, making it the smallest city in the prefecture.

Heisan is the 'sister city' of neighbouring Tōhi, and also borders Warate, for which it is a bedroom community. Its economy focuses on timber, livestock, farming and mining to a lesser extent.
Genzu

**Genzu** (亘水) is a city located in north-western Heisai Prefecture. As of 2022, it has an estimated population of around 20,000.

Genzu has historically been a centre of mining in Heisai Prefecture, along with being involved heavily in rice farming. The city began as a small mining village known as Izusui ('silver water', a dialectal name which was standardised to its modern equivalent *Genzu* later). The town grew in the 1600s as it experienced an influx of the merchant classes.

## Geography

Genzu is located in the foothills of the Hakahara Mountains, and also border the nearby Funo Hills. The Sanbun River flows down from the mountains and passes through the city's western ward. Genzu's southern borders with Yukigata and Senzan are formed by the Usamizu River.

## Economy

Genzu's economy focuses primarily on lumber, agriculture, and metal/chemical manufacturing and processing. It is also a major tea producer for the prefecture.

## Local attractions

- Genzu Park

- Koyū Bridge, which crosses the Sanbun River

- Genzu Furuku Tombs & Burial Site

- Izusui Castle ruins

- Koyūyama, forested hill on which there are popular hiking trails

- Genzu City Park
Hamae Prefectural University

**Hamae Prefectural University** [海前近革盖含；はまえ・こんしゅうがいはん] is a prefectural university located in Daimi, Hamae Prefecture, established in 1965. It has a focus on STEM degrees, particularly engineering and computer science. The university has campuses in multiple cities throughout the prefecture, including Warate, Shunjū, Mizukata, and Chibai.
Kidōgen

**KIdōgen** [祭豆言 きどうげん, also known as *anesaku*] was a cant originally used by Kantonese court ladies during the Kanji period, which subsequently spread and came to be thought of as a general women's language. It consisted primarily of a special vocabulary of words for food, clothing and household items. Many of the created terms were simplified or shortened versions of the standard word to which they correlated.

Many kidōgen words were formed by adding the suffix -*e*, which could indicate humbleness or fondness depending on context, or by dropping part of a word and adding the generic particle -*ji*. Some kidōgen words passed into general usage, and are today part of the standard Kantonese language.
Baoki

**Baoki** [ばおき] are traditional tattoos worn exclusively by Summui women after they reach the age of 30. Typically seen on the neck, additional tattoos may be drawn on the backs of the hands or on the breasts. Different symbols could signify different meanings or aspects of the woman's life or character.

## History

The custom of *baoki* was first written of in the 1500s, but is believed to date back much further. The tattoos were associated with rites of passage for women, applied on her 30th birthday, and would usually indicate how many children she had (if any), her marital status, her place of residence, or a word or symbol denoting an aspect of her personality. The motifs and shapes used probably varied throughout history, but by the 1600s, there was a more-or-less standardised set of symbols used across the Zōku islands. In Summui culture, it was believed that the more tattoos a women had, the more respect she deserved, and the stronger she was (not least because the process of tattooing was labourious and painful).

*Baoki* were banned by the Kantonese government under the Asama administration in 1779, but the practice continued in secret for many years. The ban was part of a wider effort to crack down on Summui culture because it was deemed 'primitive' by the Kantonese. Although the practice of *baoki* was made legal again in 1981, tattooing became less and less common over time and by the 1950s most Summui women expressed no desire to be given *baoki*.
Minagi

**Minagi** [身长 みなぎ] is a city located in far northern Arami Prefecture overlooking the Umure Bay area. As of 2022, it has a population of around 75,000.

Minagi is a coastal city which has long been a centre of commerce with both the Summui islands to the north and neighbouring Aoma Prefecture. Since its establishment in the late 11th century it was one of the most prosperous settlements in the north of Kanton, with excellent trade links, fertile soil and abundant irrigation supporting rice farming, and access to the coast enabling a fishing industry to flourish. In the modern day, Minagi continues to be one of the most expensive cities in Arami Prefecture. Its sunny beaches are also popular with tourists.
Kuriha

**Kuriha** [樫葉; くりは] is a city located in south-western Tomono Prefecture. As of 2022 it had a population of roughly 30,000. The settlement's name literally translates as 'chestnut-tree leaves', and is a reference to the large chestnut tree population in the city.

Kuriha developed primarily as a castle town surrounding Kuriha Castle, which was a fortification protecting the border of south-western Sanzama Province. Over the centuries, Kuriha became a centre of trade and grain farming for the immediate region, known as a producer of potatoes, tea, wheat, barley, oats, eggplant and other foodstuffs. It is also one of the multiple cities in Honzura to claim to be the birthplace of the nationally-popular *nōtobi*, a type of noodle made from potato flour.

## Geography

Kuriha lies on the border with Saka Prefecture. The city is located in a hilly region west of the Tōwara Valley, and is situated south of the Tohara River. It is a neighbour of the capital city Tōwara, and its north-eastern ward serves as somewhat of a bedroom community. It is known for being extremely wet and rainy during the spring, which can often cause minor flooding and disruption throughout the city.

The south of the city lies a well-known hill known as Tsuzuyama, so named for its abundance of wild roses. The hill is a popular destination for hikers and birdwatchers. Magnolias also grow on the mountain, making it a very popular spot for *hinamachi*.

## Economy

Kuriha is a regional commercial center and transportation hub. Honroku Zinc operates a large plant in the city, as does Kurogura Chemical.

## Local attractions

* Toharami Gorge
* Site of Kuriha Castle
* Kuriha History Museum

The Kurihamachi is a two-day summer festival which is typically held on a weekend in late July. The celebration, which takes place in central Kuriha, features food and entertainment stalls, a flea market, parade, and street dancing. Additionally, the Tsuzumachi (Rose Festival) is a spring festival which takes place at Tsuzuyama Park every year in early May, to celebrate the blooming of the roses. Numerous vendor stalls sell various local products, food, and flowers. The roses are illuminated after sunset.
Biha

**Biha** (日盼) is a city located in northern Heisai Prefecture on the Biha Peninsula. As of 2022, it has a population of around 15,000.

Biha is one of the oldest settlements in Heisai, beginning as a fishing village in the 5th century. The town developed as a local administrative center and market town, noted for its lacquerware and brewing of *gizan*. Biha developed as a popular resort town in the 17th century, attracting upper class merchants and nobles alike to its scenic surrounding area.

Biha is known for its distinctive noodles, called *nozoki-toboi* (literally 'wish noodles' in the local dialect) which are tightly curled and very thick.

## Geography

Biha is located on the Biha Peninsula, after which it is named. Three small volcanic mountains - Mount Chi, Mount Kanryō and Mount Hakoru. Near the city lie various well-known scenic spots, such as the Morimizu Falls and Irohana Beach.

## Economy

Biha is the largest producer of fishing and marine products in Heisai Prefecture, and these industries make up a large part of the economy. Agricultural products include rice and hops, and *gizan* brewing is still popular.

## Local attractions

- Bihanogano Castle

- Irohana Beach

- Biha Fishing and Maritime Museum

- Biha Central Park
Hinamachi

**Hinamachi** [棠萦; ひなまち] is the Kantonese tradition of appreciating the national plant, the magnolia tree. 棠 means "magnolia" and 萦 is a character which can mean "party", "festival", "celebration" or "appreciation". The most common translation of the latter is "festival". The tradition usually takes place in early May to late June, following the blooming period of magnolia trees, and can take place either by daylight or at night.

In modern-day Kanton, most people celebrate a singular day known as 棠の没 (*hina no ya*), which is treated as a day of gratitude and appreciation for what blessings one has. Usually, outdoor parties will take place either at the height of noon (12pm-1pm) or late in the evening (6pm-8pm). *Hinamachi* held at night is called 物棠别く (*yūhina*; "nighttime magnolias"). It is traditional for paper lanterns to be strung in parks where the nighttime festivals are held.

Historically, *hinamachi* was reserved for the elite upperclass, who often owned their own recreational gardens and parks in which the magnolia trees grew. Originally, the purpose of the festival was to allow mingling between members of certain families, make acquaintences and occasionally tell stories. In the mid-1800s, however, the practice became more common with the working-class, and eventually transformed into an event held for the purposes of giving gratitude and appreciating the beauty of nature.

According to tradition, it is very good luck to hold a wedding during the flowering period of magnolia trees. For this reason, many wedding ceremonies are held during *hinamachi* across the country. In fact, the magnolia flower has become associated with romance and love. Even the word *hinamachi* has become a synonym for a prosperous, harmonious and happy marriage.

## Festivals

Festivities last for around 7 days, stopping just short of the end of the usual blooming period. In 2018, it was estimated that around 3.5 million people attended *hinamachi* all over Kanton during this short timeframe.

The festivals are known for their cheerful, vibrant, atmospheres, abundance of traditional food and drinks, and live music performances. In some years, there have been performances of old story-songs and poetry recitals revolving around the appreciation of magnolia trees. In some regions, a separate festival is held especially for young children to attend.

Traditional cuisine served varies from place to place, but there are a few staples, such as:

* Apple wine or cordial, along with apple juice or soda
* Steamed or fried *tōgi*
* Steamed bread
* Milky tea (*chayu*)
* Ice cream
* Vegetable fritters called *bashi*, also placed at shrines
Azuya

**Azuya** [梓缠; あずや, also known as *Azuyakami*] is the god of misfortune, evil and discord in Kiren. Born from the improper mating ritual conducted by Inōtō and Iyane, he is considered an 'outcast god' or *utakami* who is not deserving of worship or appeasement by humans. His sole intent and purpose is to spread malice, conflict and misery throughout the world. The legend of the birth of Azuya (and to a lesser extent his brother Hiyakami) is widely considered to be a warning against ignoring tradition or ritual.

In Kiren tradition, cremation is partially required in order to make sure that souls are properly purified and thereby safeguarded against possible abduction by Azuya. If Azuya is able to take control of a 'lost soul' that has not undergone purification after death, he will often twist it into an evil spirit which seeks to wreak havoc upon humans.
Lake Eiya

**Lake Eiya** [営有匆 えいや・く] is a lake located in Minami, Kōfu Prefecture. It is one of Kanton's few 'urban lakes' and is the main feature of Minami Park, the largest urban green space in the Honzura region. Lake Eiya is known for its wildlife, which includes koi fish, swans, herons, toads, and many species of flowers and reeds. Each year, the lake attracts thousands of visitors.
Ishido Temple

**Ishido Temple** [少族方; いしど・ほら] is a temple located in the city of Ryūzu, Saka Prefecture. Within the temple there is enshrined a minor deity known as Aranimae (空二前, 'two faces of the sky'), legends of which have been found in both Saka and Kōfu Prefectures. It is one of only four major temples dedicated to this *kami*. Ishido is also known locally as Aranimae-na.

The temple was founded in 1119 by a feudal lord named Yamina no Shū, apparently a vassal of the Yamako. It is located southwest of the city centre in Yakata, a hilly and less urbanised area surrounded by fields and near to the Tohara River. This site was once the location of Yamina Castle, and it is thought that this area, and perhaps larger Ryūzu, was controlled by this small clan.

The legend of the deity itself, Aranimae, is local and rarely heard outside of the Honzuranō region. The kami is said to have one face which is perpetually angry, and releases thunder in fits of rage, and another face which is gentle and benevolent, and releases rain so that all living things can grow. Aranimae is especially popular with people seeking good fortune in agriculture.
Kessu

**Kessu** [阜水 けっす] is a city located in southern Saka Prefecture. As of 2022, it had a population of around 14,000.

Kessu was established as a *koman* on the Salt Road in the early 1600s, being detached from the adjacent town of Furui (modern-day Hiragata) to form its own township. The town flourished as a merchants' town in the 18th century and benefited from the mining of iron and granite from the foothills of the Taiyū-Genpei range. However, this industry was closed in the 1920s due to a deficit of ore.

## Geography

Kessu is situated in the shadow of the Taiyū-Genpei Mountains, directly east of the larger city of Yukuzō. Kessu is known for its large student population, most of whom take advantage of the cheaper accommodation there while attending university or college in Yukuzō. The Sabo River runs through the southern ward south-to-north, and the Shirayuki forms a natural border to the north.

## Economy

The economy of Kessu is primarily agricultural. Stone quarrying is also a considerable sector of the economy. Manufacturing and processing is one of the larger secondary industries.

## Local attractions

* Kessu Mining Museum
* Kessu Lantern Parade - held every New Year, during which lanterns are set to sail on the Shirayuki River
* Kessu Tulip Park
* The Irohara Teahouse - old teahouse preserved from the 16th century
Book of Ōhaki

The **Book of Ōhaki** [尬調具; おうはきほん] is an early Kantonese chronicle of myths, legends, songs, poems, genealogies, oral traditions, and semi-historical accounts concerning the origin of the Kantonese island, the *kami* and the Imperial House. It is claimed in its preface as being composed by a scholar named Yasuma no Hitō, at the request of the Emperor in the early 8th century, and thus is usually considered to be the oldest existing literary work in Kanton. The myths detailed in the Ōhaki [as it is sometimes known] have greatly informed Kiren and were incorporated into religious rituals.
Koe Bōken

**Koe Bōken** [芒竺・卻; December 7 1912 - March 19 1985) was an acclaimed novelist of 20th century Kanton. She is considered one of the founders of the naturalism movement in modern Kantonese literature, and an icon for female writers in the Kantonese industry.

Koe was born in Iroyama, Hamae Prefecture. She moved to Kōryō in 1930 to attend a women's university, but soon dropped out to devote herself to writing full-time. The start of her career was rocky and coloured by the misogynism of her contemporaries; after showing a sample of her work to local newspaper editor Yoshi Kanebotsu, she was encouraged to 'make herself useful and become a typist'. Undeterred, she visited Ōyu Ōnaki, a well-established poet of the time, who told her that she 'would never realise her ambition' of becoming a novelist. In 1935, Koe became a student of satirical author Monno Futake and began writing novels under his direction.

She was hired by the literary magazine Shishinnen in 1938, but was transferred by the magazine to the newspaper Shiyura Koppun, where she worked alternately as a typist, interviewer, article editor and writer. Later Koe said that this experience heavily informed her later writing style.

Koe published her first novel, *First Sight* (韓眼, *Kanme*), in 1940. It was a story about a *senkō* and her relationships with different men from different social strata, while also focusing on the disappearing world of the traditional arts. Koe followed this with another novel in 1946, *Diving for Pearls* (辟午き, *Nebi Noki*), which told the stories of five different women, experiencing the ups and downs that came with their own social spheres, from low-class prostitute to the (fictional) wife of the Kantonese Prime Minister. This proved to be her most successful work.

Koe attempted to write in a realistic and highly personal manner, engaging the reader with the characters in a way which was considered rather revolutionary for the time. Her use of the first person, previously considered basic and unpleasantly ambiguous in Kantonese literature, made her stand out from her contemporaries. In the forward to her third novel, *Magpie*, Koe commented that she 'seeks to move the reader not by the unusual, but what is normal and average, and yet what they don't see most of the time'. Although often compared to her closest rival Sakami Sanji, Koe is sometimes criticised for the 'predictability' of her work, with characters often stylised with stereotypes and meeting ends that could be considered unimaginative. Koe defended this in a 1968 interview, stating that her novels were based on 'real life, and real experiences, which aren't always so exciting'.

Koe was elected to the Kantonese National Art Academy in 1951. In her later years, she also turned towards the genre of historical fiction. Koe died of bone cancer in March 1985, at the age of 73.
Mount Etagaki

**Mount Etagaki** [峻撃山 えたがき・さん] is a mountain located in eastern Mikei Prefecture. It is the most prominent peak of the Yamanoshi Mountains, with a height of around 1,650 metres. Etagaki is known for being popular with hikers in the spring and summer and skiiers in the winter. It is also home to the ruins of Etagaki Castle, an ancient stronghold of the Hasadachi clan, constructed and destroyed in the 1420s.
Kuagi

**Kuagi** [くあぎ / Sunpaku: くあぎ] is a city located in southern Zōhai Prefecture. As of 2022, it has a population of around 26,000.

Kuagi is famous for its distinctive *atabari* traditional dance, *basuri-atabari*, which has been taught and performed for centuries. It is known primarily as an agriculturally-focused region, with its staple crops being rice and root vegetables, thanks to its extremely arable, flat, and well-drained land. In particular Kuagi is known for its specialty carrots, which are white- or yellow-coloured. The city, alongside its neighbour Kanatari, has one of the biggest populations of ethnic Summui people in the prefecture, with over 65% of the populace estimated to have pure Summui bloodlines.

Kuagi is also known for its famous 17th-century castle, Kaoto Castle, which was owned by a native aristocrat and his family for over 200 years.
Ineyo

**Ineyo** [稲集 いねよ] is a city located in central Saka Prefecture. As of 2022, it has a population of around 12,000.

Ineyo was established primarily as a rice farming village by the Yamako clan, and grew into a minor castle town centred around the now-ruined Watamizu Castle. During the medieval period the settlement flourished due to its location on the shores of the Tohara River, which was a hub of both local and inter-prefectural trade.

## Geography

Ineyo is situated on the eastern banks of the Tohara River, south of the larger cities of Kanonaka and Ryūzu. It is located on the Tohara Delta, which has facilitated a large amount of rice and tea production over the centuries.

## Economy

The economy of Ineyo is still focused primarily on rice farming, with manufacturing and chemical processing also being important industries.

## Local attractions

* Ineyo New Year's Fireworks
* Ineyo Temple
* Ruins of Watamizu Castle
Mount Haogawa

**Mount Haogawa** [拍寬山 はおがわ・さん] is a mountain located on the island of Shōya in Arami Prefecture. It has an elevation of around 1,700 metres. The mountain and its surrounding area are known for its unique scenic beauty.

For centuries the mountain has been a point of interest for artists and poets, who have been captivated by its unusual appearance. The 18th century poet Ukamachi no Toshi included Mount Haogawa in his famous work *50 Excellent Sights of Honzura*.
Kunzu Castle

**Kunzu Castle** (組茅莽 くんず がり) is a castle located in Yukigata, Heisai Prefecture. It was built in the 1450s by the Kuroi clan, high-ranking vassals of the Senyama. The castle was also known more casually as Kurogaku for much of its history.

Although now largely ruined, Kunzu Castle is open for visitation and receives over 40,000 visitors annually on average. The picturesque grounds of the castle, located on the banks of the Meisu River, are also popular during *hinamachi* season.
Daihora

**Daihora** [大方; だいほら] is a Kantonese historical term referring to Kiren temples which are the largest and most-visited in a province. Typically, *daihora* were considered the primary temples for a region, receiving hundreds if not thousands of visitors a year, and often being the destinations or starting-points of pilgrimages (kannō). Historically they were also known as *eihora*.

The term *daihora* literally means 'large temple' and any establishment bearing this title was typically the most popular temple in its province. *Daihora* would often have hundreds of staff compared to the usual twenty or so, and the building itself was often lavish and meticulously-decorated. More often than not, *daihora* were constructed in central areas so as to be of an equal distance from the majority of the population. There are some exceptions to this however, such as Wagami Temple in modern-day Tomono Prefecture, which was originally located on the slopes of Mount Ryozen.

In some provinces, particularly in the south, *daihora* were originally for use by the upper classes only. This changed in the 17th century as the old class system of Kanton was uprooted, and eventually there were no exclusive *daihora*. The only exception was the Ei'an Temple in the capital, which was (and still is) designated as a site of worship for the Imperial family.
Ashi River

The **Ashi River** [沈免; あし・み] is a river located in north-western Aoma Prefecture. It is the second-longest river in the prefecture and its sources lies in the far northern foothills of the Migai Hills, along the coast of Fugan Peninsula. The Ashi has one main tributary, the Shiashi River, from which a number of smaller branches spread across the land.

The Ashi River runs directly through Onzu, Mesame and into Yōshō, where it deposits into Lake Ashi. It has provided fresh water for the area for centuries. Yōshō's association with large-scale rice farming and crop production is a result of the abundance of irrigation which the Ashi offers.
Iroyama

**Iroyama** [阳山 いろやま] is a city located in northern Hamae Prefecture. As of 2022, it has a population of around 530,000, and is the third-largest city in the prefecture.

## Geography

Iroyama is located in a mild valley between the northern and southern forks of the Banzan Mountains. The Namesu River flows along the city's southern border. Mount Sanbetsu looms over the eastern ward, and all through the year it is a popular spot for skiing, snowboarding and mountain trekking. Sanbetsu Temple, built in the 15th century, is one of Iroyama's best-known historical sites.

## Economy

Iroyama's economy first became known for the natural production of mentha (mint). At one point the region exported mint (known as *ichi* locally) in a scale that represented 70% of the world's mint consumption. Nowadays due to its size, Iroyama is a considerable industrial and commercial hub of the region. Most of its residents work in the tertiary sector. The extensive farmlands of the city are surrounded by large nature reserves spreading across the foothills of the north Banzan range. Abundant sunlight and fertile soil support the production of diverse produce, including rice, wheat/barley, potatoes, beans, onions and other vegetables, as well as dairy products, beef and pork.

## Local attractions

* Iroyama Flower Gardens
* Sanbetsu Temple
* Iroyama Fireworks Festival
* Mount Sanbetsu
* STARHILL *kyōbun*
* Kandzu Park
* Iroyama Museum of Art
Azuno University

**Azuno University** [先敲盖含 あづの・がいはん] is a private university based in Azuno, Kanjō Prefecture, established in 1882. Its name is often abbreviated to Azu-Yu (アズユ). As of May 2022, there were 41,860 undergraduate students and 8,721 graduate students studying at the university. In addition to the central campus in Azuno, the institute operates campuses in Kanyū, Ebisha, Yohi, Shimachi, and western Kaimon. The Azuno University Library is collectively one of Kanton's largest libraries and currently hold some 4.5 million volumes.

Azuno is regarded as one of the most selective and prestigious universities in Kantonese rankings, particularly for its humanities and social sciences degrees. It is often ranked alongside Kirei University, its rival, as the best university in the country.

## History

Azuno was founded as *Eiryō Teigaku-han* (営良单夸含) on 29 October 1882 by the scholar and politician Shinzen Nakayami. It started as a college with five departments: political studies, economics, law, science, and technical science. Along with these departments, an English language course was established in 1885, where students of all departments could learn English. Three years later, the department of technical science closed due to a lack of applicants.

The department of literature was established in 1890, the department of education in 1891, the department of commerce in 1893, and the department of science and engineering in 1901. The university was renamed to Azuno University on 2 September 1902.

## Campus

Azuno University's main campus is located in the Hirogata district of Azuno in Kanjō Prefecture. Including this campus there are a total of eight campuses located around the Eibun region, three of which are in Kaimon:

* Hirogata Campus (main) - Azuno, Kanjō
* Ōhira Campus - Kaimon, Kanjō
* Yukiyo Campus - Kaimon, Kanjō
* Kemumachi Campus - Kaimon, Kanjō
* Kanyū-Azuno Campus - Kanyū, Kuyama
* Ebisha-Azuno Campus - Ebisha, Kōfu
* Yohi-Azuno Campus - Yohi, Tanami
* Shimachi-Azuno Campus - Shimachi, Ueno
Kamai

**Kamai** [窯昆 かまい] is a city located in south-western Kōfu Prefecture. As of 2022, it had a population of around 20,000.

Kamai is primarily known for its green tea production; the popular variety, Kamai-cha (named after the city itself) is sold across the country. Kamai's economy also focuses on industry and the manufacturing of construction materials. Plastics and electronic components manufacturing are additional large industries in Kamai. Horticulture and rice cultivation are also popular. The city is increasingly becoming a commuter area for the larger nearby cities of Sadama, Esuda and Minami.

## Local attractions

* Iyoriko Temple
* Hinadō Street, which is lined with old teahouses
* Kamai Bridge (crossing the Hyōzu River)
* Green Pride Park
* Kamai Tea Festival - held each August
Keihen

**Keihen** [芸镖 けいへん] is a city located in central coastal Saka Prefecture. As of 2022, it had a population of around 16,000.

The coastline of Keihen is characterised by its jagged arrow-head shape. Most of the inland area is flat; it is located on the western edge of the Sakato Plain. The area is a popular tourist destination, especially in the summer.

## Economy

Keihen is one of the largest seafood producers in the prefecture, shipping over 600 tonnes of seafood and marine products each year. Historically it was also a farming town, although agriculture is now a negligible part of the local economy, as a lack of irrigation sources has made rice farming difficult.

## Local attractions

* Ōnō Beach
* Irosuke Beach
* Keihen Museum of Art
* Keihen Central Park
Inōtō and Iyane

**Inōtō and Iyane** [居男; いのうとう / 居女; いやね] were the first humans, descended from the gods Ōekami and Ōukami, who inhabited the island of Kanton and were the founders of the Imperial House of Kanton. Descended from the sun goddess Kasshingami, they are considered to be more human than deity, but still carry some *kami* blood. However, they are not worshipped as gods in Kiren tradition.

Inōtō, the first man, procreated with his sister-wife Iyane after it was decreed by Kasshingami that they should populate the Earth. After their first sexual union, Iyane gave birth to two undesirable children - known later as the evil spirit Azuya and the fire god Hiyakami - the reason being that they had not practiced the correct ritual. Varying versions of this ritual have been recorded; the standard version as described by the Book of Ōhaki says that after sex, Iyane was the first to speak, which was considered improper and soured the process of insemination. This was the foundation of the Kiren belief that certain rituals are necessary in order to keep a balance, as this mistake made by Iyane resulted in the creation of Azuya, the god of discord, misfortune and evil.

During their second sexual union the demi-god Shūshō was conceived. Although not considered a kami in the traditional sense, his distant relation to the *shinogami* in heaven gave him some celestial power. He was incredibly intelligent, and was known as the god of wisdom, order and harmony. Shūshō later became the ancestor of the Imperial House from which all Kantonese Emperors are allegedly descended.