Setouchi, Town in Ōshima district, Kagoshima Prefecture, Japan
Setouchi is a town in Ōshima district located on Amami Ōshima island, stretching across the landscape with views facing both the East China Sea and Pacific Ocean. The town's territory includes the smaller islands of Kakeromajima and Ukejima.
The area became Koniya Town in 1936 and remained under American administration from 1946 to 1953. In 1956, it merged with three neighboring villages to form the present town.
The town carries forward traditional ways of life unique to Amami Island, visible in how locals speak, grow crops, and gather for seasonal celebrations linked to sugar cane. These practices shape daily rhythms and community bonds in the area.
Koniya Port serves as the main access point for ferry services to Kagoshima and nearby Amami Islands. National Route 58 also runs through the area for local land travel.
The town sits in a subtropical climate zone and offers visitors a rare glimpse into life on a small island community far less touristed than larger regional destinations. This isolation makes it possible to experience daily island life without crowds.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
