Kōriyama
| Nation: |  Sanpantul
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| Population: | 250,000 |
| Predominant language: | Sanpanese |
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| Main roads: | |
| Major districts: | Himato, Miimizu |
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| Current mayor: | Machi Ryoko |
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| Map versions: | 16.5.6– |
Koriyama Kōriyama (Sangunese: 氷山, translit.: Kōriyama?) is a city in Sanpantul, situated on the shores of the Sandwich Strait, near Bishop Bay in the region of West Sandwich. As of 1747, it has an estimated population of 173,344. The city is notable for its association with Marxist and Maoist movements in the late 17th century and briefly served as the capital of the unrecognized Eastern Sandwich Socialist Republic between 1692 and 1693.
Geography
Koriyama lies on the eastern edge of the Sandwich Strait, a strategic maritime passage connecting Bishop Bay with the greater Sanpantul coast. The surrounding landscape is characterized by fertile lowlands, suitable for rice cultivation, with small hill ranges further inland. The climate is temperate, with distinct wet and dry seasons, supporting both agriculture and beekeeping.
Sommerlain Island, a small located just off the coast, forms part of Koriyama’s jurisdiction and serves as both a natural retreat and a historical site linked to revolutionary gatherings in the late 17th century.
History
Early history
The origins of Koriyama date back to pre-Sanpantul settlements along the Sandwich Strait, where fishing villages and small agricultural communities thrived. Its position along maritime routes made it a focal point for trade between Sandwich Island settlements.
Socialist period (1692–1693)
Koriyama became politically significant in the late 17th century. Following unrest in the Sandwich Strait region, revolutionary movements inspired by Marxist and Maoist ideologies established the Eastern Sandwich Socialist Republic in 1692. Koriyama was chosen as its capital due to its strategic location and working-class population, many of whom were employed in the textile industry.
The republic, however, was short-lived. It was never recognized internationally and collapsed in 1693 after internal disputes and military pressure from neighboring powers. Despite its brevity, the episode cemented Koriyama’s reputation as a center of leftist politics in Sanpantul.
Migration and Burakumin settlement
The majority of Koriyama’s present population consists of Burakumin, who migrated from Kipei during the late 17th century. Initially marginalized, the Burakumin formed the backbone of Koriyama’s agricultural and textile labor force, later becoming central to the socialist revolutionary movements that defined the city’s identity.
Demographics
As of 1747, Koriyama’s population stands at 173,344. The city is predominantly Burakumin, comprising over two-thirds of the total population. This demographic composition distinguishes Koriyama from many other cities in Sanpantul. Smaller minorities include traders and fishermen of mixed Skerrian and Natopian descent.
The strong Burakumin identity influences both cultural life and local politics, often giving Koriyama a more radical reputation compared to other Sanpantul cities.
Economy
Koriyama’s economy is based on three principal sectors:
- Textile industry: Established in the late 17th century, textile production remains the largest employer in the city, producing cloth for domestic use and regional trade.
- Rice farming: Surrounding paddies provide both subsistence and commercial rice, forming the agricultural backbone of the city.
- Beekeeping: While smaller in scale, honey production has grown steadily and is exported to neighboring regions.
- Despite these economic pillars, Koriyama has historically been poorer than coastal trade hubs, which contributed to the rise of radical political movements.
- Butchery: Considering the history of Burakumin, butchery is quite common.
Landmarks
Koriyama hosts several notable landmarks that reflect its cultural and revolutionary history:
- Shinsei-ji Temple (真聖寺) – A Buddhist temple and one of the city’s oldest surviving religious sites.
- Minna Hiroba (みんな広場, “Everyone’s Square”) – The central plaza where public gatherings, markets, and political demonstrations are held.
- Koriyama Gate – The traditional entrance to the city, symbolizing its role as a passage between inland villages and the Strait.
- Sommerlain Island – A natural retreat and historical site where revolutionary groups once met.
- Revolutionary Monument – A memorial dedicated to the socialist movements of 1692–1693.
Culture
Koriyama is considered one of the cultural centers of the Burakumin population in Sanpantul. Traditional festivals often combine agricultural rituals, such as rice harvest celebrations, with commemorations of the socialist past. Music, theater, and public readings of revolutionary texts are common cultural expressions.
The city’s strong association with leftist ideology has also influenced education, with schools emphasizing themes of social equality and communal responsibility.
Transportation
Koriyama is connected to neighboring Sandwich Strait settlements by road and ferry services. Trade routes pass through Bishop Bay, linking the city with inland agricultural zones. Although smaller than the major ports of the region, Koriyama’s position on the Strait ensures steady maritime traffic.
