Toba • Meet Local AMA 1

Ama" refers to Japan's traditional freediving women divers who historically collected seafood from the sea without breathing equipment, primarily along the Kii Peninsula. This ancient, female-led profession is in decline due to dwindling fish populations from climate change and a lack of new recruits, but some communities are adapting by offering eco-tourism and cultural experiences, such as meals cooked in traditional ama huts (goya).
What is the Ama tradition?
Freedivers: Ama divers rely on deep breathing techniques and their own skills to hold their breath and dive to collect seafood like abalone and other shellfish.
Female-Dominated: Historically, the profession has been female-dominated, partly due to a belief that women have a natural advantage with more body fat to endure cold water, and because it allowed for independent, self-supporting lives.
Ancient Practice: The tradition dates back centuries, with some sources noting a 5,000-year history.
Where can you experience the Ama culture?
Kii Peninsula: Many Ama communities are located along the coast of this region.
Mie Prefecture: Areas like Toba and Osatsu are known for their Ama culture, and you can find museums dedicated to the tradition.
Ama Huts (Ama-goya): Some traditional huts have been converted into tourist attractions, offering visitors a chance to see the divers and eat a meal of their freshly caught seafood.
Challenges to the Ama Tradition
Climate Change: Warming waters and sea surface temperatures have caused the loss of kelp forests (isoyake), which are vital habitats and food sources for the shellfish the Ama collect.
Declining Fish Populations: The loss of kelp has led to fewer abalone and other valuable shellfish, making the Ama's work harder and less profitable.
Aging Workforce: There are fewer young women training to become Ama, and the average age of the divers is increasing.
How the Ama are adapting
Eco-Tourism: Some Ama are opening traditional huts to tourists, sharing their culture, and cooking freshly caught seafood.
Advocacy: Ama are becoming advocates for conservation, raising awareness about climate change and its impact on marine ecosystems to ensure the future of their livelihoods.
Community Efforts: Efforts are underway to protect the marine environment and promote sustainable practices to help preserve the tradition for future generations.Read more