Amami Ōshima

Amami Oshima spans 712 square kilometers between Kyushu and Okinawa, with white sand beaches, coral reefs, and dense forests covering 65 percent of its land.

From 1571 to 1611, the island belonged to the Ryukyu Kingdom until the Shimazu clan invasion led to its incorporation into the Tokugawa domain.

The island maintains traditional silk production techniques through Oshima Tsumugi fabric, which holds national recognition for its manufacturing methods in kimono creation.

Visitors can reach the island through direct flights from major Japanese cities or take an extended ferry journey from Kagoshima spanning 11 to 13 hours.

The Amami rabbit, found exclusively on this island, represents one of many protected species within the UNESCO World Heritage designated natural environment.

Location: Oshima District

Location: Amami

Elevation above the sea: 694 m

Part of: Amami Islands, Amami-Ōshima Island, Tokunoshima Island, northern part of Okinawa Island, and Iriomote Island

GPS coordinates: 28.28333,129.36667

Latest update: May 27, 2025 20:46