Miyaji
| Miyaji 宮地 |
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| Metropolitian city | |||
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| Nickname(s): The North Star | |||
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| Country |  Sanpantul |
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| Prefecture | Miyaji | ||
| Founded | as Minzhugawa, 1673 AN | ||
| Government | |||
| • Mayor | Yoshii Kii (Democrats, since 1740 AN) | ||
| Population (1742 AN) | |||
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| Time zone | +5 CMT | ||
| Area code(s) | 3 | ||
| Website | miyaji.gov.sp | ||
Miyaji (Sangunese: 宮地, translit.: Miyaji?) is a metropolitan city in Sanpantul, located at the northern tip of the city island. It has a core city population of 1,181,342 and a metropolitan prefecture population of 1,431,324, making it the fourth-largest city in the country. The city is bordered by Okaru County to the east and is surrounded by a shallow inward-sloping bay. To its north lie the LaRiviera Islands, a group of several large and small islands.
History
The settlement was founded in 1673 AN under the name Minzhugawa on the ruins of a former Nova English cathedral complex. At the time, it was home to a significant Xiangi population. Increasing unrest in the late 17th century prompted most of the Xiangi inhabitants to move south, and the city became predominantly Sanpo in character.
In 1677 AN, the LaRiviera Islands were incorporated into the city’s jurisdiction. The northern wetlands of the city, including parts of the LaRiviera area, were reclaimed in 1681 AN through large-scale land improvement works. Following the fall of Sanpantul, the city was temporarily occupied—first by Sapak raiders, and later by the Date Shogunate.
During the Batavia period, Miyaji and its surrounding island lost much of their economic and political importance. The city began to recover after the re-establishment of Sanpantul’s sovereignty. In the 1740s, Miyaji was overtaken by Ogimi in population, losing its position as the nation’s third-largest city.
Economy
Miyaji is a major industrial and port city, with notable concentrations of technology and automotive manufacturing. Thanks to its Mediterranean climate, it is also a moderate center for olive cultivation. The port continues to play a crucial role in stimulating the regional and national economy.
Geography
The city occupies the northernmost portion of its island, with extensive reclaimed wetlands to the north. The LaRiviera Islands form a distinctive part of its coastal geography and serve as a popular leisure and seafood destination.
Culture
Miyaji has a diverse cultural scene influenced by its Sanpo heritage and historical Xiangi presence. The annual LaRiviera Seafood Festival attracts visitors from across the prefecture, showcasing local delicacies such as fried calamari and olive-based dishes. The city’s architectural heritage includes a mix of restored Nova English colonial buildings, traditional Sanpo-style homes, and modern high-rise developments. Museums such as the Miyaji Maritime Museum and the Museum of Sanpo Industry highlight the city’s port history and industrial growth.
Transport
Miyaji is served by an integrated transport network:
- **Rail**: The Miyaji Main Station connects the city to Ogimi, Ofū, and the Sanpantul capital via high-speed rail.
- **Port**: The Port of Miyaji is one of the busiest in northern Sanpantul, handling both cargo and passenger ferries to the LaRiviera Islands and coastal towns.
- **Road**: National Highway 3 passes through Miyaji, linking it to Okaru County and other northern cities.
- **Public transit**: The Miyaji Metropolitan Transit Authority operates bus and light rail services across the city and its suburbs.
Landmarks
- St. Pete Cathedral (remnant of the Nova English era)
- LaRiviera Islands
- Central business district
- Miyaji Maritime Museum
