Liushans

Liushans is a fictional ethnolinguistic group and the archipelago they inhabit, as described in several world-building narratives set in the East Ocean region. In these works, the Liushans are portrayed as mountain–sea people whose society blends terraced agriculture with robust maritime trade.

Etymology and myth: The name is presented in the stories as deriving from Liushan script, combining elements for “flow” and “mountain,” while a central myth speaks of six sacred mountains that shaped the people’s origin and identity.

Geography and language: The Liushan Islands form a chain of volcanic isles with steep terraces and sheltered bays. The Liushan language is described as Sino-Tibetan in origin, with several regional dialects; a writing system based on logograms appears in some texts, while others use an adapted syllabary.

Society and culture: Villages cluster on terraces along ridge lines; governance emphasizes councils of elders and clan lineages, with local leaders chosen by consensus. Traditional crafts include weaving, basketry, and ceramic work; music features bamboo flutes and drum ensembles. Religion centers on ancestor veneration and mountain guardians.

Economy and history: Historically, Liushans rely on terrace crops, fishing, and timber; they maintain trade routes with neighboring island realms. In fiction, they gradually navigate modernization, balancing cultural preservation with economic development, sometimes under the umbrella of a maritime federation that grants limited autonomy.

Notable Liushans: In various works, figures such as the poet Meilan Liushan and the explorer Hao Liushan appear as archetypes of Liushan ingenuity and resilience.