Zamami: Okinawa's Island Jewel
An academic exploration of a unique Okinawan village, its natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture.
Discover Zamami ๐ Explore Geography ๐Dive in with Flashcard Learning!
๐ฎ Play the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge Game๐ฎ
About Zamami
Village Overview
Zamami is a village situated in Shimajiri District, Okinawa Prefecture, Japan. It comprises over 20 islands, located approximately 40 kilometers west of Naha, the prefectural capital. As of October 2020, the village reported a population of 892 residents, with a population density of 53.29 persons per square kilometer. The total land area of Zamami village is 16.74 square kilometers.
Protected Status
On March 3, 2014, designated as Coral Day, the Kerama Islands, including Zamami Village, were officially recognized as a Japanese National Park. Zamami has also received notable international distinctions, including a two-star rating in the Michelin Green Guide Japan and designation as a "Wetland of International Importance" under the Ramsar Convention in 2005.
Geographical Landscape
Island Composition
The primary islands constituting the village of Zamami are Zamami Island, Aka Island, Geruma Island, and Fukaji Island. Zamami, Aka, and Geruma are inhabited, while the remaining islands are uninhabited. These islands are characterized by their mountainous terrain, leaving limited level land suitable for extensive agriculture or habitation. Notable beaches include Furuzamami Beach and Ama Beach on Zamami Island, and Nishibama Beach on Aka Island.
Location and Coordinates
Zamami is strategically located within the Okinawa Prefecture. Its geographical coordinates are approximately 26ยฐ13โฒ44โณN 127ยฐ18โฒ12โณE. This positioning places it within the broader Kyushu region of Japan, specifically within the Shimajiri District.
Historical Trajectory
Ancient Origins and Ryukyu Kingdom
The settlement of Zamami dates back to the shell midden period, analogous to Japan's Jลmon period. Under the Ryukyu Kingdom, it was organized as the Jiyaman magiri, a regional administrative district. Zamami's excellent natural harbor made it a crucial port for trade with China during the 14th century, serving as a stopping point for vessels awaiting favorable winds.
Pre-War and Wartime Significance
Before World War II, Zamami was known for charcoal production and as a center for bonito fishing, contributing significantly to the production of katsuobushi. Copper was also mined on Yakabi and Kuba islands. Tragically, during WWII, Zamami was among the first Japanese territories invaded by American forces. Its inhabitants were subjected to extreme duress, with orders from the Japanese military to commit suicide using hand grenades, a controversial event that continues to resonate.
Economic Foundations
Tourism as Primary Driver
Zamami's economy is overwhelmingly reliant on tourism, with approximately 92% of its population employed in this sector. Key tourist activities include scuba diving, snorkeling, sea kayaking, standup paddleboarding, and fishing. The island is also a popular destination for whale watching during the winter and early spring months. Visitors can explore the island via rented motor scooters.
Traditional Industries
While tourism dominates, traditional industries have seen a decline. Agriculture is limited, producing small quantities of peanuts, papaya, potatoes, beef, and goat. The fishing industry, though diminished, remains active, with the Port of Aka serving as the primary fishing harbor. The Zamami Village Fisheries Cooperative operates shops selling fresh catches directly to the public. Mozuku seaweed is a notable marine product.
Transportation Networks
Ferry Services
Access to Zamami is primarily via ferry from Tomari Port in Naha, or from Tokashiki Island to Aharen Port. The main port within Zamami village is the Port of Zamami, operated by Okinawa Prefecture. Standard ferry services take approximately 1.5 hours, while the high-speed passenger ferry, Queen Zamami III, completes the journey in about 50 minutes. Ferry schedules vary, particularly for the high-speed service.
Local Transit and Air Access
A village-operated bus service provides transportation on Zamami Island to key locations such as Furuzamami Beach and Ama Beach for a nominal fee. Air travel to the Kerama Islands is facilitated by Kerama Airport, located on Fukaji Island, connecting the archipelago to the wider region.
Cultural Heritage
Designated Properties
Zamami Village is home to several designated cultural properties, recognized at national or municipal levels. These include the Asa Ship Captain Residence (featuring its stone wall and hinpun wall), the Takara Family Residence, and the Tuna Fishing Industry Foundation Memorial Stone.
In Popular Culture
The unique setting of Zamami has served as the backdrop for artistic works, notably being the location for the manga series titled "IO."
Teacher's Corner
Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio
Click here to open the "Zamami Okinawa" Wiki2Web Studio curriculum kit
Use the free Wiki2web Studio to generate printable flashcards, worksheets, exams, and export your materials as a web page or an interactive game.
True or False?
Test Your Knowledge!
Gamer's Corner
Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?
Unlock the mystery image and prove your knowledge by earning trophies. This simple game is addictively fun and is a great way to learn!
Play now
References
References
Feedback & Support
To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.
Disclaimer
Important Notice
This document has been generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is derived from publicly available data and may not be exhaustive or entirely current.
This is not official travel advice. Information regarding travel, accommodations, or local services should be verified with official sources. The creators of this page are not liable for any inaccuracies, omissions, or actions taken based on the information provided herein.