amas

Amas are the traditional female divers of Japan who practice free-diving to harvest seafood from coastal waters. The term ama refers to the divers themselves, with amas being the plural form in English usage. They historically collected pearls, abalone, shellfish, and seaweed along the coastlines of Honshu, Shikoku, Kyushu, and Okinawa, though regional practices vary.

The practice is believed to have begun many centuries ago and became a distinctive coastal occupation. It was commonly passed down within families, often from mother to daughter, and integrated into local fishing economies. Divers would train from a young age, developing breath-holding, swimming, and diving skills.

In the modern era, the number of active amas has declined due to changing economic conditions, competition from modern fisheries, and safety concerns. Nevertheless, some communities continue the tradition as a cultural practice and offer tours or demonstrations to educate visitors about the history and techniques of ama diving. The amas remain a notable example of female roles in traditional maritime cultures.