Amami Ōshima

Overview

Amami Ōshima is the largest island of the Amami archipelago, lying in the sea south of Kyūshū roughly midway between Kagoshima and the main island of Okinawa. With an area of about 712 square kilometers and a highest point of 694 meters, it has the second-largest population among islands not linked by road to Japan's four main islands, after Okinawa's main island. In 2021 it was inscribed as part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Highlights

• ●The largest island of the Amami archipelago, about 712 km² in area
• ●Mountainous nature rising to 694 meters
• ●Part of the World Heritage Site of Amami-Ōshima, Tokunoshima, northern Okinawa and Iriomote islands
• ●Also known simply as Ōshima

History

Long a principal island of the Amami archipelago, it is administratively divided among the city of Amami and other municipalities. In 2021 it was inscribed as part of the serial UNESCO World Heritage Site of Amami-Ōshima Island, Tokunoshima Island, the northern part of Okinawa Island, and Iriomote Island.

Map

28.2833, 129.3667 · Wikidata

Suggested itinerary

1. 1Set out into the island from the local town center
2. 2Experience the mountainous nature reaching 694 meters
3. 3Tour the natural environment recognized as a World Heritage asset
4. 4Take in the surrounding settlements and coastal scenery

Did you know?

💡 When there is no risk of confusion with other islands, it is also called simply Ōshima.

Nearby spots