recursal/Fanatic-Fandom huggingface dataset:
Eki Beach

**Eki Beach** [斯南浄; えきびょう] is a small beach located in Kitsuhara, in southern Shinkō Prefecture. The beach is widely considered one of the most picturesque in the prefecture, if not the most, with its pale sand, rugged landscape and clear water. Despite its fame as a beautiful and scenic spot, the beach remains fairly shielded from swarms of tourists due to its remote location and the difficulty of finding a path to the shore.
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, and comes under the general umbrella of the Zōku dialect, which covers every northern variation. Perhaps its closest relative is the Ganyama dialect.

## 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
Handai

**Handai** [半代; はんだい / Sunpaku: はんだい] is a city located on Shinan in Zōhai Prefecture. As of 2020, it has a population of around 40,000. It is by far the largest settlement on the island of Shinan, and supplies various services for the other settlements.

The city's main economical industries are agriculture and tourism. It is also known for producing apple cider vinegar, which is branded as Handai Okitsu. It also produces turmeric, a traditional medicinal herb often used by the Summui people, and various types of tea. Several processing plants are based in the city, producing semi-processed goods to be used by industries on the mainland or in consumer products.

In Handai's northern ward, the large cave system of Shippōri is known for its stalagmites and stalactites and is popular with spelunking tourists. Discovered in 1967, the cave is estimated to be at least one kilometer long, although only 700 metres are open to tourists. In the Handai Museum District, there are various traditional arts and activities shown, such as glass-blowing, dying and weaving, and pottery.
Reishingami

**Reishingami** [谅沉神; れいしんがみ] is the Kiren goddess of dawn, mirth, and female sensuality and sexuality. She is regarded as the patron spirit or 'guardian' of women as a whole, although particularly favours those between the ages of 18-28. In feudal times she was considered the goddess of female nobility, and ladies born into the Imperial Court would often be given the first name Reishin in honour of this. Although Reishingami is her formal title, she is also known as Reisō-sama, Shunne, or Chōmai.

Reishingami is a daughter of the sun goddess Kasshingami, created with the strength to pull back the great curtain of nighttime and allow sunlight to access the surface of the earth. In order to get from the heavens down to earth, she flies down on the back of the great dragon spirit Damyōryū, who is, according to most ancient records, her husband. When twilight comes, Reishingami must enter the earthly realm by using the Shinodami or Heavenly Bridge, in order to pull down the curtain of nighttime. According to this legend, Kiren superstition once held that riding on the back of an animal [i.e. a horse or mule] is more auspicious in the morning, and walking by foot is more auspicious in the evening.

Reishingami is worshipped and enshrined in many temples across Kanton. Her presence is particularly strong in the south, where she is often known as Shunne. The Reishinshūren pilgrimage is the only traditional Kantonese pilgrimage undertaken exclusively by women, and involves travelling to Reishin Temple in Kosema Prefecture.
Ozoma

**Ozoma** [盼岩; おぞま] is a city located in south-central Heisai Prefecture. As of 2020, it had a population of around 21,000.

The city's western ward overlooks the shores of Lake Ōtsuke, and Ozoma itself is built on a large floodplain. The local economy of the city is traditionally based on agriculture, primarily rice cultivation, apples, grapes and cucumbers; however, due to its proximity to Tenzai, it is increasingly serving as a bedroom community. Ozoma was historically a military town used as a retreat for soldiers of Heisai, and is the site of the ruins of Ozoma Fortress which was built by the Tengō clan in the 9th century.

Ōshi Farm, based in eastern Ozoma, is currently the largest privately owned dairy production center in northern Kanton. The farm produces a full range of dairy products distributed throughout the nation.
Adari Peninsula

**Adari Peninsula** [俺腕长; あだりなぎ] is a peninsula located in Shinkō Prefecture in north Kanton. It is home to a number of settlements, the largest of which is the town of Akadami, with a population of roughly 48,000. The eastern shore of the peninsula overlooks Shindai Bay and offers a sweeping view of the prefecture's entire coastal area.

Adari Peninsula is mainly a bedroom community for the cities of Seidai and Danchō, along with Meikai. Although the fishing industry was once active and healthy in the local communities, it has since been overtaken by white- and blue-collar jobs in the tertiary and service sectors. A significant portion of the electricity supplied to Danchō and Meikai, along with smaller towns, is generated at the Adarinagi Power Station in Nakama.

There are a number of important lighthouses situated across Adari Peninsula's northern coast. The largest, Mandei Lighthouse, is the only one to still be in use.
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* 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.
Kiyami

**Kiyami** [冷免; きやみ] is a city located in Shinkō Prefecture. It has a population of around 110,000.

The area around present-day Kiyami city has been inhabited for thousands of years. Archaeologists have found stone tools from the Kantonese Paleolithic period and ceramic shards from the Nō Period at numerous locations in the area. Up until the 12th century, Kiyami was ruled by a small clan known as the Hami, who had considerable influence over vegetable farming in the area, particularly root vegetables such as yams, carrots and horse radish. Once under the control of the Shin forces, Kiyami became a centre for agriculture through the 13th and 14th centuries, with wide extensive farmlands taking up the majority of the area. In the mid-1300s Kiyami took in the neighbouring village of Ukatsu to accommodate its growing population.

In 1865, interesting archaeological remains were discovered in Kiyami's eastern ward. The remains consisted of a long-buried wheelhouse from the early 700s, along with some tools and well-preserved human remains.

## Economy

Along with its diminishing agricultural industry, Kiyami specialises in brewing, particularly traditional Kantonese liquor called *nōzan* which is made from potatoes.
Sennen

Sennen [三年; せんねん] is a city located in Shinkō Prefecture. As of 2020, it has an estimated population of about 84,000.

## Economy

Sennen has a strong historical connection with soy sauce, alcohol and vinegar brewing, and remains one of the prefecture's top producers of pickled garlic or *kyungo*. Koronasa Aircraft Company established an aircraft production plant in Sennen in the 1960s. However, by the 1990s this was redeveloped into a heavy industrial zone, which included a chemical production plant.

## Geography

Sennen is located on Shinkō's northern coastline, and borders five other settlements, including Danchō, Seidai and Kiyami.
Hondan

**Hondan** [坎档; ほんだん] is a city located in far western Ganyama Prefecture. As of 2020, it had a population of around 20,000.

Hondan is located on a flat, somewhat marshy plain which it shares with the neighbouring city of Hatai in Aoma Prefecture. To the west of the city stands Mount Keigawa, a large and isolated mountain once used for granite mining and forestry. The Ore River runs through the centre of Hatai and provides plenty of irrigation for the city's rice farms.

Hondan's economy is mostly based on fishing and agriculture, with crop farming making up a large part of the city's economy. Potatoes, carrots, herbs, pumpkins, chestnuts and turnips are also produced in Hondan.
Senpu

**Senpu** [紐夫; せんぷ / Sunpaku: せんぷ] is a city located on Dainan in Zōhai Prefecture. As of 2020, it had a population of around 23,000.

Senpu is the origin of the beer brand Snapdragon, which has grown to become one of the most famous and popular beer companies in the country. The city is also the home of the traditional Summui drinking custom *sotobuki*. There are multiple Sudaro shrines located around the region, some of which are believed to date back to the early 1100s.

## Economy

Since the 1940s Senpu has been a small-scale centre of textile production, but due to its seaside location and its historical sights the city has also become a popular tourist spot. In recent years various agricultural crops have been grown in the rugged farmland areas of Senpu. Commercial fishing was once a busy industry but has died away.

Resort hotels have been built along the coastal areas of Senpu since the 1970s, and tourism remains an important part of the economy of the city.
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 Nanman 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 Nanman Harbour.
Lake Ūka

**Lake Ūka** [栾层匆; ううか・く] is a lake located in southern Ganyama Prefecture in the Ganyama mountain range. It is a crater lake, formed within the crater which lies in a hollow on the northern slope of Mount Chō. It is located within the limits of the village of Mebura.

The red salmon (locally called '*karupe*'), introduced from Lake Futsūme 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 Shiza River which can collect salmon returning to spawn at Lake Ūka.
Eshin Temple

**Eshin Temple** [え行方; えしんぼら] is a temple located in Naraguchi Bay, near the city of Saibun in Shinkō Prefecture. It is situated in a secluded cove, on the north end of the coastline, and was only discovered in 1961 by a pair of local explorers. Due to its long years of abandonment, the temple was originally in very poor condition, weatherbeaten and essentially a ruin. However, the Saibun City Government invested in the restoration of the temple, and by the 1980s it was open to the public. There are small huts located near to the temple in which visitors can pay to stay the night, the site's main attraction being the stunning views of the Kanton Strait.

Eshin Temple is said to have been founded in the 7th century. The building was originally very small and badly damaged by storms. Since its restoration it has been expanded and other buildings have been added to the original hall of worship.
Naihana

**Naihana** [变花; ないはな] is a city located in lower-eastern Ganyama Prefecture. As of 2020, it had a population of around 12,000.

Naihana borders Heisai Prefecture to the south and looks out over Ganshi Bay to the east. It experiences some of the heaviest and most frequent rainfall in the prefecture, which contributes to the large-scale production of rice around the city's outskirts. Historically Naihana was originally adjoined to the city of Saisawa, and the two are still considered 'sisters'. Naihana's terrain is mostly mountainous and rocky, and two major peaks are included within the city limits, Mount Uyama and Mount Tsuchi.

The economy of Naihana is based on agriculture and light manufacture. Rice is the primary exported crop. Industries are centered around food processing, with rice wine brewing and the production of fermented/pickled foods also predominant.

Naihana is well-known prefecturally for its Nō period excavation site, around which many ancient artefacts were discovered. On a national level it is also known as the birthplace of the 19th-century writer Koe Bōken.
Hasaka

**Hasaka** [海溯; はさか] is a city located on the north-eastern coast of Ganyama Prefecture. As of 2020, the city had a population of around 15,000.

Hasaka is located in northwestern Ganyama, and although it has access to a small section of coast, most of the city lies inland. Within the prefecture Hasaka is most well-known for its hot spring resorts, which are famously luxurious and expensive to book. The most popular resort is centred around the Ebijō Hot Spring. Hasaka is also known for being the *higan* capital of northern Kanton. *Higan* refers to the ancient Kantonese tradition of hunting wild deer.

The economy of the city mainly focuses on fishing and farming, with rice, potatoes, wheat, barley, oats, and certain types of tea being cultivated.
Nanman

**Nanman** [洒前; なんまん] is a city located in Aoma Prefecture. It is the second-largest municipality in the prefecture by population, with around 220,000 residents as of 2020.

The area around Nanman has been occupied since prehistoric times, coming under control of the Gōda clan, who were rulers of Fugan Peninsula during the medieval period. Nanman was a major destination for Summui settlers from the Zōku islands who decided to relocate to the mainland. As a result, Nanman has absorbed a considerable amount of Summui culture, and was once something of a melting pot, with Summui and Kantonese living side-by-side in the growing city. Due to the lenient laws by which the Gōda clan governed, Summui emigrants were able to find a degree of acceptance and peace in Nanman.

Due to the influx and influence of Summui islanders, Nanman quickly flourished as a fishing town during the middle ages and remained consistent in population until the 1600s. As a somewhat remote city located on the tip of Fugan Peninsula, Nanman has always been isolated from the rest of the prefecture and its happenings. During the great blight of the 17th century which swept the west coast of Kanton, Nanman remained a safe and rather prosperous haven, almost unaffected by the famine. Many commonfolk from southern and central Aoma Prefecture moved northward to the fishing towns during this time, and Nanman's population grew rapidly.

The town prospered as a fishing city centered on Nanman Harbour, and served as a small commercial hub. Today, the port still serves the fishing industry and a number of international cargo vessels.

## Geography

Nanman is located on a large, flat plain on the tip of the Fugan Peninsula in northern Aoma. Its coastal edges are fringed with attractive stoney beaches and towering cliffs. The Nanman River, named after the city, flows through its south-eastern ward.

## Economy

Nanman is the largest city on the Fugan Peninsula, and serves as the regional industrial and commercial center. Commercial fishing still plays a major role in the local economy, with Nanman Harbour having the largest volume of landed fish in the prefecture. Since the 1990s, Nanman has developed a large industrial belt with a diverse range of chemical, steel, cement and fertiliser products being manufactured. The Nanman Thermal Power Station is also located in the city.

## Local attractions

* Hado Coast [also known as Hado Beach] is a stretch of coastline located outside Nanman's northern ward
* Nanman Summui Festival, a celebration of Summui culture which takes place every July
* Gōda Castle, the ruins of the Gōda clan's last 17th century fortress
Shinogami

**Shinogami** [士神; しのかみ] is a category of *kami* in Kiren mythology. Generally speaking, it refers to gods who reside in the celestial realm of Kumoshino. Their counterparts are the *bakōgami*, deities who reside on the early plane of Heibaku, and who are generally considered to have less power than *shinogami*.

Although Kiren once made a clear distinction between the worshipping of *shinogami* compared to *bakōgami*, with different rituals, prayers and customs being used, this is no longer practiced. The Kanna Daiki records *shinogami* as being more powerful and therefore requiring more frequent worship, as they could also bend the will or influence the behaviour of the *bakōgami*. Modern Kiren treats heaven-bound and earth-bound spirits generally the same, although it is still thought that *shinogami* are more powerful.

*Shinogami* refers exclusively to kami residing in Kumoshino, but during the 16th and 17th centuries it also became a colloquial classification for particularly powerful earthly deity, particularly Omiinegami, goddess of agriculture and prosperity, and Chūzuri, god of the harvest. In the mythos of Kiren, the descendents of the yin-yang gods Ōukami and Ōekami were sent across Heibaku to fertilise and give life to the world through different elements, e.g. water, wind, rain. This is why Kiren once regarded the *bakōgami* as subordinate or less honourable than their heavenly ancestors.
New Kanton Wiki

**Welcome to the New Kanton Wiki!**
This wiki documents everything that has been so far written about the fictional nation of Kanton. Kanton is an East Asian country; a kind of alternate Japan, and the home of the conlang Kantonese. It has a population of roughly (?) million, and is a democratic nation (though it has a long history of imperial rule). In this wiki, historical events are documented alongside religion, politics, settlements, industries, and cultural principles which can give wider insight into the nation of Kanton.
Saibun

**Saibun** [筌府; さいぶん] is a city located in Shinkō Prefecture. It is the third-largest city in the region, with a population of approximately 200,000. Saibun is notable for its natural hot springs, which have attracted many visitors to the city. It is also one of the only settlements in north Kanton to offer the use of its old public bathhouses, which are from the early 17th century.

The area around present-day Saibun City has been inhabited for thousands of years. Archaelogists have found stone tools and weapons from the Paleolithic period, ceramic shards from around 500 BC, and mass graves from 200 AD at numerous locations. Up until the 12th century, Saibun was divided into two portions, both ruled respectively by the Hitora and Yamakusa clans. It was captured in 1168 by the Shin clan, but it was not until the 1300s that Saibun began to grow significantly, developing around Hosaka Temple, which still stands today.

By the 17th century, Saibun's numerous hot springs were no longer prohibited to the public. Previous local laws had designated the springs (known as *sanjo*] as religious spaces which could not be interfered with; however, as puritannical customs began to change and become less influential, *sanjo* soon became very popular with the townspeople. Since the 1600s, Saibun's hot springs have been attracting many visitors to the city.

During the 19th century, Saibun flourished as an agricultural town, providing crops such as rice and wheat and various fruits and vegetables to other parts of Shinkō Prefecture. The settlement prospered during this time.

## Economy

Saibun has a mixed economy with a strong industrial base. Agriculture is still an intact industry, though not particularly large. The city has extensive commercial shopping facilities and has the second-largest commercial city centre in Shinkō Prefecture. Saibun's eastern ward is a minor bedroom community with many residents commuting to Futsukana and Meikai for school and work.

## Geography

Saibun is in the lower west side of Shinkō Prefecture, bordering Heisai. It faces Naraguchi Bay, which looks across the Strait of Kanton to southern Japan. It is interesting that Saibun never developed a fishing community; historical evidence suggests that groups of fisherfolk may have lived along the coastline, but had all moved inland by the 17th century. The beaches surrounding Naraguchi Bay are very popular with tourists and attract many who are interested in beach and surf culture, especially in the hot summer months.

## Local attractions

Saibun's good rail and adequate road connections make it a very popular destination for day trippers from the central Shinkō region. Surfing and beach volleyball tournaments in summertime attract visitors, especially younger people, and they are also drawn to the seasonal bars and rest houses that are erected along the Naraguchi coast.

Saibun has a major firework display in the summer, in late July and early August, called the Saibun Fireworks Festival.

Other local attractions include:

* Naraguchi Beach Park
* Kisha Beach
* Eshin Temple
* Kisai Castle (also a great spot for *hinamachi*)
Saishō

**Saishō** [際俎; さいしょう] is the Kantonese word for marriage. It consists of the character 際 ['union'] and 俎 ['connecting', 'joining'].

Couples in Kanton are legally when they have changed the status on their family registration forms, and do not require a ceremony. However, it is estimated that over 85% of currently married couples did hold a wedding ceremony of some kind. Of that percentage, over 70% opted for a traditional Kiren ceremony, 25% chose a Christian ceremony and 5% visited a registry office. Traditionally, marriages in Kanton were categorised into two types according to how a partner was found - arranged marriage, which involved matchmaking, and 'love' marriage, in which the husband and wife met of their own accord and decided to marry for love.

## History

### Chisō Period [800-1000 AD]

The Chisō period of Kantonese history marked its final move from rustic folk religion to a standardised faith [Kiren], which resulted in the wider standardisation of ceremonies such as weddings and funerals. These events, which had often been held in different ways according to region, became uniform in their customs through the spread of a standardised Kiren.

However, this meant that new rules were enforced on how, when and why couples could marry. Before the Chisō period, a high percentage of unions were *aiban* [愛匾], meaning that couples had married for love. Polygamy, which would be banned in 1134, was particularly common in the southern regions of the country. Only the elite [e.g. clan chiefs and their family members] would organise political marriages. However, as times moved on, it became more common and even more fashionable for people to marry based on convenience and social status. Women especially were encouraged to marry rich. There was also no limit on age, so children as young as 10 or 11 could be married off in order to improve their family's social or financial situation.

The Heian period of Japanese history marked the culmination of its classical era, when the vast imperial court established itself and its culture in Heian-kyō (modern Kyoto). Heian society was organized by an elaborate system of rank, and the purpose of marriage was to produce children who would inherit the highest possible rank from the best-placed lineage. It was neither ceremonial nor necessarily permanent.[2] The most weddings were in Edo (Modern day Tokyo).
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.
Nasamazu

**Nasamazu** [洒守; なさまず / Sunpaku: すんじょき] is the capital city of Zōhai Prefecture, the northern-most island prefecture of Kanton. As of 2020, the city had a population of around 155,000, making it the most populous settlement in the prefecture.

Nasamazu is located along the mid-section of Dainan island, bordering the two harbours of Kandō and Shitō which are both controlled by the city government. For centuries, Nasamazu has been the most important and populous settlement in Zōhai. It has also been the political, economic and educational centre of the prefecture. In the medieval and early modern periods, it was the commercial centre of the Summui Kingdom.

## History

According to historical documents, the native name Sunjoki comes from the name of the settlement's supposed founder, Naoba no Sunjoki, who was apparently a great warlord of the island. It was known by this name until 1943, when the Kantonese government changed the city's moniker to Nasamazu, which is the direct translation of Sunjoki [meaning 'jewel of the island'].

Some archaeological relics of the Stone Age were found in Nasamazu quite recently. Ancient Chinese coins have been discovered, confirming that there had been trade between the southern Chinese coasts and the Summui islands. Pottery found by archaeologists further indicates that the area was an active site of trade with Kanton at least as early as the 10th century. Though it is not known when exactly the area became a functioning port city, it was active as such by the 16th century at the latest.

Historically Nasamazu was shared its region with the archaic royal capital of Minzō. However, in the 1800s Minzō was incorporated into the expanding area of Nasamazu and was renamed as Minzō-dan, meaning Minzō Ward. A large open-air market was active in front of the royal trading centre, starting from at least the 1400s, and a number of Sudaro temples and shrines were located there. Additionally, an embassy for visiting Chinese and Kantonese officials, which still stands today, was built in the early 1500s. Large warehouses and defensive watchtowers were also features of the medieval harbour city.

## Economy

Nasamazu is an economic centre of Zōhai dominated by tourism, retail and service industries. Major international companies have call centres based in the city. A number of Kantonese banks have branches in Nasamazu, and the Zōhai Meigai Bank has its headquarters in the business district.

Nasamazu Airport is a major transportation hub for the region, as are the Kandō and Shitō Harbours.

## Local attractions

Niwanaji Castle is located near to Kandō Harbour, and often attracts large numbers of tourists. A number of parks and green spaces are popular public gathering places in Nasamazu. The Nasamazukoro Museum exhibits traditional art pieces and also offers information about local history and the wider culture of the Summui people.
Meikai Golden Temple

**Meikai Golden Temple** [沒界劲方; めいかいあんぼら] is a temple located in the city of Meikai in Shinkō Prefecture. It is one of the most frequently-visited temples in Kanton, attracting millions of visitors each year. In 1934, the building was designated a National Treasure due to its significant historical, religious and cultural importance. The adjacent grounds, known as the Golden Temple Gardens, are open to the public.

The temple was originally built as a communal, underground crypt for deceased chiefs of the clans of Shinkō Prefecture, housing hundreds of shrines and *nendo* dedicated to them. However, after the death of Emperor Usan in 1282, the temple was heavily refurbished in order to hold his tomb. Along with the Emperor's burial coffin, the numerous graves of earlier rulers were brought above ground and placed throughout the new building.

The Golden Temple earns its name from the decorative gold leaf covering its inner walls, most noticeable in the hall of worship. The temple also includes a small water garden with a traditional fountain which offers a peaceful atmosphere. In recent years, due to a high concentration of visitors, tickets for the garden must be purchased ahead of time.

In 1913, the temple suffered fire damage after an attack from factory workers who were protesting against poor wages. The event was viewed as extremely shocking, especially due to the building's religious and honorific significance.
Takura River

The **Takura River** [企免; たくら・み] is a river which flows through the central region of the north of Kanton [Zōku] from the - Mountains, traversing through Kuyama Prefecture and Kawara Prefecture before meeting the sea. It is one of the major rivers in the country.

The Takura's headwaters lie amongst the upper slopes of Mount -; this early portion of the river is called Uetakura or 'upper Takura', and is known for its many small tributaries and waterfalls. It joins with the - River in southern Kuyama.
Mount Kanai

**Mount Kanai** [笹以山; かない・さん] is a mountain located in the Aomaki Hills in Aoma Prefecture. It has an estimated elevation of around 980 metres. The mountain overlooks the capital city of Aoma, and like Mount Gango, its lowest foothills have been incorporated over time into the expanding urban landscape.

Hiking trails lead up to the summit of the mountain, and Mount Gango can be accessed by a large pass which crosses the small valley between the two peaks. A vistor's centre with a carpark lies at the base of the mountain, and also functions as a base-camp for the mountain. A variety of events are held here, such as the annual Mount Kanai Walk, a community-funded hiking walk which encourages school-children to explore nature.
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). Tangying held at night is called 物棠别く (*yūhinabaku*; "nighttime magnolia viewing"). 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 known as え棠萦 (*ehinamachi*; "little magnolia 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:

* Crabapple wine or cordial, along with apple juice or soda
* Fruit dumplings
* Fruit flatbread
* Sweet rice salads
* Vegetable fritters called *bashi*, also placed at shrines
Bihanakami

**Bihanakami** [涤设神; びはなかみ] is the goddess of mountains, plains and meadows in the Kiren religion. She is also known as Hinasama ['Magnolia Goddess'] or less commonly Yamarisama ['Divine Lady of the Mountains']. A symbol of the general beauty of the Kantonese landscape, she is considered one of the island's most diligent and kind guardians. Bihanakami is a rare *kami* who is almost unfailing compassionate and benevolent; she does not become angered by humans and therefore does not necessarily require appeasement, but remains one of the most popularly-worshipped spirits even so. There are shrines dedicated to Bihanakami across most major mountains in Kanton.

Bihanakami's sister is Kosama, the Kiren goddess of trees and forests. They were both formed after the creation of the world by the goddess of agriculture and bounty Omiinegami, at the request of Kasshingami. According to the Kanna Daiki:

> After she ascended to the Celestial Realm once more, the Omiinegami was requested by the Empress [Kasshingami] to bring Heibaku closer to the heavens, as she could not see the details of the land. The Omiinegami enlisted the help of many strong gods to try and pull the Earth closer, but it was an impossible task. Eventually she decided: "If I may not bring the Earth itself, I may create forms on the Earth which can reach up themselves." Thus she created tall mountains. Then, judging that the plants were far too small for Kasshingami to see, she brought into existence the trees, which stretched their luscious branches high into the air and offered the most agreeable view.
>
>

> ...and from the first peak came the spirit Bihanakami, and from the first tree came her sister Kosama. And the Omiinegami decreed that they both should serve to protect and watch over the mountains and forests forevermore.
>
>

In popular depictions Bihanakami is seen carrying a bouquet of magnolia blossoms; the flower is considered her main symbol. Since Bihanakami is associated with mountains, she is traditionally depicted as being very voluptuous and plump, also representing prosperity and contentment. She can also be depicted with her husband, Shūshō, the god of wisdom and order.
Mount Keigawa

**Mount Keigawa** [芸軒山; けいがわ・さん] is a mountain located in eastern Aoma Prefecture, directly positioned on the Ganyama border. The mountain has an elevation of around 1,300 metres.

Mount Keigawa was once used for granite mining and forestry by the cities of Hatai and Hondan, however, both of these industries died out in the late 20th century.
Shinbara

**Shinbara** [惡仂; しんばら] is a city located in upper-central Heisai Prefecture. As of 2020, it had a population of around 105,000. Shinbara is famous for its local beef, numerous festivals, historic temples and shrines, and its status as the 'culture capital' of the prefecture.

The area of modern-day Shinbara was part of ancient Tengō Province, the area which once took up around 70% of what we now call Heisai, and has been settled since ancient times. The city's northern ward is especially rich in artifacts and remains from the 5th century. By the Naro period hunters, trappers, settlers and missionaries were visiting and inhabiting the area. In the early 700s, Jijō Temple claims to have been established by the traveling priest Ikanami in a hilly area west of the city which is now part of Yamawa.

By the 800s, there was a sizeable Summui population present in Shinbara but they were constantly antagonised by locals and officials of the Tengō clan. In 876, two separate attacks were launched by the Tengō clan against the Summui immigrants with little success. More attacks and skirmishes occurred through the years. In 877, a band of Summui fighters led by the warlord Noshiba were cornered by a larger force of Kantonese infantry in the Battle of Shinbarazō. Despite the strength and fighting power of the Summui, they could not hold out against the Kantonese and Noshiba and his followers surrendered. Noshiba was taken to the capital and beheaded. That same year Tengō no Kanzui established Ikinashi Castle.

## Geography

Shinbara is located in the upper-central portion of Heisai Prefecture, bordered most notably by the city of Tenzai. The city lies on a fertile plain which rises to the foothills of Yamawa to the west; it also borders the Yamawa Valley. Although much of its former land has been taken up by the smaller city of Yohashi, there have been talks about merging the two municipalities.

## Economy

Shinbara's economy focuses mainly on light manufacture and the raising of its well-known beef, called *shinbara-bōchū*. Agriculture takes up a large part of the city's industry and many varieties of crops are grown on its outskirts.

## Local attractions

* Shinbara Summer Festival, which takes place every June and lasts for the whole month
* Jijō Temple
* Ikinashi Castle
* The Shinbara Fields, a long stretch of protected meadowland in the city's eastern ward popular with hikers and birdwatchers
Chitai

**Chitai** [散片; ちたい] is a city located in Aoma Prefecture. As of 2020, it has an estimated population of around 51,000.

Chitai is a landlocked city with no access to the coast; it borders the slightly larger municipality of Yōshō and the two are considered to be sister cities. For many centuries Chitai has been a centre of agriculture and horticulture, producing crops such as potatoes, beansprouts, rice, wheat, and beans. Chitai is also well-known for being the birthplace of the distinctive decorative embroidery style *taga-fuki*, which originated in the 1700s. It was created as a utilitarian technique with which to make linen clothing more robust and warm during harsh winters, and is still used and made today.

## Local attractions

* Chitai Art Gallery & Cultural Museum
* Tagafuki Art Studio & Museum
* Chitai Castle, which is a ruin located just outside the city centre in Chitai Central Park
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 mainly to crack down on Summui culture because it was deemed 'primitive' by the Kantonese. Although *baoki* was made legal again in 1981, tattooing became less and less common over time and by the 1950s most women had expressed no desire to be given *baoki*.
Korami

The **korami** [従身; こらみ] was a type of litter used as a means of human transportation by the upper and middle classes of the 15th to 18th centuries in Kanton.

The basket of the *korami* was about four or five feet long. Four bamboo poles or 'legs', used to stablise the *korami* when it was set down, were attached to each of the corners. A large overhead crossbeam, made of either wood or bamboo, was used by carriers to hold and move the litter. A roof of some type, often made of lightweight thatch or dried grass, covered the top, and screens made of thin rice paper could unrolled from inside to protect from sun or rain. Typically the *korami* was carried by a team of four men, although the number of carriers could increase depending on the status of the traveler. *Korami* carriers were known as *koramite*, and often acted as valets and footservants for the traveler on long, harsh journeys. Due to the difficulty of the work and the strength required to do it, *koramite* were often treated very well compared to other servants and were valued highly by their masters.

More elaborate, richly-decorated types of *korami* developed during the 17th and 18th centuries, and were often used by the merchant classes as transportation vehicles.
Mandei Lighthouse

**Mandei Lighthouse** [前召行塔; まんでい-しんとう] is a lighthouse located on Adari Peninsula, in Shinkō Prefecture. It stands on a jutting cliff two miles from the nearby town of Akoru. It is the largest lighthouse on the peninsula, and the only one currently still in use.

The original Mandei Lighthouse was the first lighthouse built in northern Kanton, and was a slightly smaller structure than its modern reincarnation, with a dimmer light and smaller lens. It was commissioned by the Shinkō Prefectural Government in 1861. However, because the lighthouse was made entirely of brick with weak foundations, it crumbled in the onslaught of the North Coastal tsunami in 1929. The structure was reconstructed with a view to being able to withstand even more severe conditions, with steel beams and solid foundations.

Mandei Lighthouse is best known as the lighthouse featured in *Wind Spirits* [吹の子, 1981], a popular film about the experiences of a man living alone as a lighthouse keeper after the death of his wife and son. Mandei Lighthouse was a prominent symbol on the film's poster.
Mount Taba

**Mount Taba** [勇山; たばさん] is a mountain located in the Ikumo range in north Kanton. It is the largest mountain with the tallest peak, having a height of 1,350 metres. Historically, the mountain was used as a training ground for soldiers and warriors of the prefectural army, which is why its name translates to 'warrior mountain'.

Mount Taba is easily accessible by hiking trail from Ōgi Pass, a road which leads up from the city of Futsukana. Nearby Mount Kumogi can also be reached by following the same trail directly, a journey which takes approximately 40 minutes.

Mount Taba is the source of the Kizō River, which flows north through Futsukana.
Miyado

**Miyado** [妙個; みやど] is a city located in central Kawara Prefecture. As of 2020, it has a population of around 39,000.

Miyado began as a *koman*, or post-stop town, in the 14th century, and was one of the first and only to be built in Kawara. It welcomed travellers from the south, particularly those crossing from Kuyama Prefecture, and was also a centre of trade both domestic and national. The local economy is largely dependant on fishing, agriculture and light manufacture/material processing. Overlooking the lower reaches of Tappō Bay, the city has a long history of trade with the island of Katomo and Tsukinasa. Miyado is considered the unofficial 'sister city' to Dakkai.
Daisui Falls

The **Daisui Falls** [大水彩; だいすい・ふし] is a large and impressive waterfall located near the east coast of Katomo Island. It is known for being a scenic spot, often visited by tourists in the spring and summer months.

At night the falls are lit up with multicoloured lights. During the day, guided tours can be taken through the surrounding landscape, and there are many nearby places where visitors can picnic, take photographs, or set up their tents. Indeed, there are also campsites and cabins which can be rented out.