Kyowara: Worldbuilding Thread

Shinji Metropolis (慎二都, Shinji-to) is the capital and largest city of Kyowara, a region located on the continent of Eras. It is one of the most populous and economically prosperous cities in the world, with a metropolitan population of approximately 47 million as of 2023. Located on the northern coast of the Gulf of Kitakami, Shinji overlooks the Shimaru Sound and the Strait of Daifu, positioning the city as a key hub for both maritime trade and cultural exchange. Shinji is divided into eleven metropolitan wards, with Osaichi Ward being the most populous, housing around 15.1 million residents. The second-largest ward, Toyoshō, has a population of 6.32 million, followed by Asahi with 5.44 million people. These wards collectively form the urban core of the city, with Osaichi Ward also serving as the seat of the Confederate Congress, the primary legislative body of Kyowara. The city is administrated by a governor, while the wards themselves are led by their individual mayor-council governments, reporting back to the Metropolitan Prefectural Council.

Shinji is renowned as a global centre of technology and commerce. The city's Tanagawa Ward is home to the Innovation Valley, a high-tech district that hosts several major technology corporations, including Soto, Takawo, YoYoSo, and Megawa. These companies are pioneers in various fields such as software development, robotics, and artificial intelligence, contributing to Shinji’s status as a technology powerhouse. The city is also a major financial hub, with Tsubasa City, one of world's key commercial districts, being home to the headquarters of several multinational corporations. It is recognized as one of the most important centers for global banking, insurance, entertainment and asset management. The Shinji Stock Exchange, colloquially known as Mishi Lane, is one of the largest and most influential stock markets in Eras, playing a central role in the world economy. Shinji is a vibrant cultural centre, with a thriving entertainment industry centered in the district of Abahara. Abahara is famous for its dynamic nightlife, while Nikai Street, within the district, is renowned for its theater performances and its role in the performing arts scene. Abahara is also home to a range of other cultural venues, including art galleries, music halls, and museums.

Historically, Shinji was known by various names before becoming the modern metropolis it is today. Prior to the 17th century, the city was referred to as Daisho (大賞, Dàshān)—a name derived from the Arianese term meaning "grand mountain" or "steep heights." It was later known as Yamato (大和), meaning "The Great East," and served as the stronghold of the Osaichi Shogunate, which controlled much of the surrounding region. During the era of the Osaichi Shogunate, the city played a key role in the political, military, and cultural affairs of Kyowara. The transition from Daisho to Shinji marked a period of significant growth and transformation under the Santonian protectorate rule, with the city eventually emerging as the center of governance, commerce, and innovation in Kyowara and beyond. / WIP