jiuqu

Jiuqu, also known as Jiǔqū (九曲), is a geographical term in China referring to a winding or tortuous river or stream. The name literally translates to "nine bends" or "nine turns," implying a complex and meandering watercourse. While it can be a generic descriptor for any river with numerous curves, it is most famously associated with the Jiulong River in Fujian Province.

The Jiulong River, whose name also evokes the idea of "nine dragons" due to its winding path, is a significant river system in southeastern China. Its course through mountainous terrain has created a series of dramatic bends and scenic landscapes, earning it the "Jiǔqū" designation. The river's path has historically influenced settlement patterns, agriculture, and transportation in the region.

Beyond the Jiulong River, the term "Jiǔqū" might occasionally appear in local place names or historical texts to describe other watercourses exhibiting similar sinuous characteristics. The visual imagery of a river repeatedly changing direction has also found its way into Chinese art and literature, symbolizing the unpredictable nature of life or the challenges of a journey. The concept emphasizes observation of natural forms and their cultural interpretations.