Amami Ōshima

Amami Ōshima
Image Science and Analysis Laboratory, NASA-Johnson Space Center. "The Gateway t · Public domain · source
Name	Amami Ōshima
Native name	奄美大島
Location	East China Sea
Archipelago	Amami Islands
Area km2	712.35
Highest mount	Yuwandake
Elevation m	694
Country	Japan
Country admin divisions title	Prefecture
Country admin divisions	Kagoshima Prefecture
Country admin divisions title 1	Subprefecture
Country admin divisions 1	Ōshima Subprefecture
Country largest city	Amami
Population	~73,000
Population as of	2020
Density km2	102

Amami Ōshima. It is the largest island in the Amami Islands archipelago, situated in the East China Sea between Kyushu and Okinawa Island. Administratively part of Kagoshima Prefecture, the island is renowned for its rich biodiversity, unique cultural heritage, and complex history involving the Ryukyu Kingdom and Satsuma Domain. Its major population center is the city of Amami.

Geography and climate

The island features a rugged, mountainous interior dominated by the peak of Yuwandake, which is the highest point, and is surrounded by extensive coral reef systems and dense subtropical forests. Key geographical formations include the Kinsakubaru Primeval Forest and the limestone caves of Shigetō no Gyokusendō. Its coastline is characterized by numerous inlets such as Naze Bay, with notable capes including Cape Kasari. The climate is classified as humid subtropical, heavily influenced by the Kuroshio Current, and the island lies within the path of frequent typhoons originating in the Pacific Ocean.

History

Historically, the island was part of the Ryukyu Kingdom from the 15th century until its invasion and subjugation by the Satsuma Domain of feudal Japan in 1609. Following the Meiji Restoration, it was formally incorporated into the Empire of Japan as part of Ōshima Subprefecture in 1897. After World War II, it was occupied by the United States Civil Administration of the Ryukyu Islands until its reversion to Japanese administration in 1953, a separate event from the later Okinawa Reversion Agreement. Significant historical sites include the ruins of Amami Castle and monuments related to the local Amami people's resistance against Satsuma Domain control.

Flora and fauna

The island is a recognized UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of "Amami-Ōshima Island, Tokunoshima Island, northern part of Okinawa Island, and Iriomote Island," noted for its high rate of endemism. It is a critical habitat for the endangered Amami rabbit and the Amami woodcock, as well as the Ryukyu long-haired rat. The forests, including those in Amami Guntō National Park, are home to unique species like the Amami jay and the Amami tip-nosed frog. Its ecosystems also support the Lidth's jay and various endemic reptiles such as the Amami odd-scaled snake, with conservation efforts led by the Japanese Ministry of the Environment.

Culture and language

The island possesses a distinct cultural identity shaped by its Ryukyuan heritage, evident in traditional performing arts like the Amami shimauta folk songs and the Okinawan-inspired sanshin music. The local Amami language, part of the Ryukyuan languages, is actively preserved despite the dominance of Japanese. Cultural events include the vibrant bullfighting festivals and traditional textile production of Oshima Tsumugi silk. Culinary specialties feature local ingredients such as brown sugar shochu, kehan chicken, and dishes utilizing the island's abundant seafood.

Economy and transportation

The economy is sustained by agriculture, including the cultivation of sugarcane, pineapple, and mikan citrus, alongside tourism focused on ecotourism and diving in the coral reefs. Key transportation links are provided by Amami Airport, which offers flights to major hubs like Fukuoka Airport and Osaka International Airport, and ferry services operated by Marix Line and A Line Ferry connecting to Kagoshima and Okinawa. The island's road network, including National Route 58, facilitates access to major towns such as Naze and Setouchi.

Category:Islands of Kagoshima Prefecture Category:Amami Islands