Amami Islands: A Journey Through the Heart of the Satsunan Archipelago
The Amami Islands (Japanese: Amami-guntō) are a stunning Japanese archipelago located within the Satsunan Islands, a subgroup of the larger Ryukyu Islands. Situated southwest of Kyushu, these islands are administratively part of the Kagoshima Prefecture. The name "Amami" is believed to be linked to Amamikyu, the goddess of creation in Ryukyuan mythology.
From their coralline limestone foundations to a complex history of shifting sovereignty, the Amami Islands represent a unique cultural bridge between mainland Japan and the Ryukyu chain.
Key Facts
- Total Area: Approximately 1,240.28 square kilometers.
- Highest Point: Yuwandake, reaching 694 meters on Amami Ōshima.
- Population: 104,281 (as of October 1, 2020).
- Climate: Humid subtropical (Cfa) with high annual precipitation and frequent typhoons.
- Administration: Part of Kagoshima Prefecture, Japan.
- Cultural Identity: A distinct blend of Ryukyuan and Japanese influences.
Geography and Environment
The archipelago consists of limestone islands of coralline origin. The land is divided primarily between the city of Amami (308.3 sq km) and the Oshima district (931.9 sq km). The region is characterized by very warm summers and mild winters, with peak rainfall occurring in May, June, and September.
| Island Name | Area (km²) | Population | Highest Point (m) | Peak Name |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Amami Ōshima | 712.35 | 73,000 | 694 | Yuwandake |
| Tokunoshima | 247.77 | 27,000 | 645 | Inokawadake |
| Okinoerabujima | 93.63 | 15,000 | 246 | Ōyama |
| Kakeromajima | 77.39 | 1,600 | 314 | - |
| Kikaijima | 56.93 | 7,657 | 214 | - |
| Yoronjima | 20.8 | 6,000 | 98 | - |
A Chronology of Sovereignty
The history of the Amami Islands is categorized into distinct periods, reflecting the various powers that have influenced the region.
The Amami and Aji Periods
Human activity dates back 6,000 years with the production of earthenware influenced by the Jōmon culture. This evolved into the local "Usuki Lower Style." By the 12th century, the transition from hunting to agriculture led to the rise of the aji (nobility class), who built fortified castles known as gusuku, such as Beru and Yononushi.
The Naha Period
Named after the major port of Ryukyu, this era saw the islands fall under the influence of the Ryukyu Kingdom. By 1450, Ryukyuan forces had conquered most of the islands, including Kikai Island in 1466, successfully repelling early invasion attempts by the Satsuma Domain in 1493.
The Yamato Period
In 1609, Shimazu Tadatsune of the Satsuma Domain invaded the Ryukyu Kingdom to control trade routes with Ming dynasty China. By 1611, the Amami Islands were ceded to Satsuma. While initially mild, the administration later became exploitative, forcing a monoculture of sugarcane for tax payments, which frequently led to famine.
The American Period
Following Japan's surrender in World War II, the islands were placed under U.S. military control (1946–1953). This period, known as the Amerika-yo, was marked by economic hardship and a strong local movement for reversion to Japan. Through hunger strikes and petitions signed by 99.8% of residents over 14, the islands were returned to Japan on December 25, 1953.
Culture and Language
Amami culture is a unique hybrid. While it shares roots with the Ryukyu Islands, it has been more heavily influenced by mainland Japan than Okinawa has. This distinction is particularly evident in the local language and music.
Language and Dialects
The Amami language consists of several dialects (Kikai, North Amami, South Amami, and Tokunoshima) belonging to the Northern Ryukyuan group. While standard Japanese is taught in schools, many residents under 60 speak Amami Japanese (Ton-futsūgo), a dialect blending Japanese with local accents and influences from the Kagoshima and Kansai regions.
Music and Religion
The islands are famous for shima uta ("community songs"). Unlike Okinawan folk music, which uses a hemitonic scale, Amami shima uta utilizes an anhemitonic scale (similar to the Greek pentatonic scale) and is characterized by the use of falsetto vocals.
Spiritually, the islands maintain native religious norms with utaki (shrines) and noro (priestesses). Burial customs primarily feature the "house style" tomb, though some "turtle style" tombs exist from 400 years ago.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Amami and Okinawan culture?
While both are part of the Ryukyuan sphere, Amami was more heavily influenced by mainland Japan, whereas Okinawa had stronger ties to China. This is reflected in their distinct languages, music scales, and tomb styles.
Why was sugarcane so important during the Yamato period?
The Satsuma Domain imposed high taxes that had to be paid in sugar, leading to a sugarcane monoculture. While this benefited the domain's finances, it often caused severe food shortages and famines for the local population.
What is "Ton-futsūgo"?
Ton-futsūgo, literally meaning "Potato standard," is the de facto common speech used by Amami residents under 60. It is a dialect of Japanese that incorporates Amami accents and vocabulary, as well as influences from Kagoshima and Kansai.
How did the Amami Islands return to Japanese sovereignty?
After being separated from Japan in 1946, a powerful Homeland Restoration Movement emerged. Through democratic elections, petitions, and hunger strikes, the residents pressured the U.S. administration, leading to the islands' return on December 25, 1953.