2023 calender: New moon / Full moon / Meteor shower
In Zamami, you can enjoy the view of the moon and celestial events year-round.
During the new moon, stars are visible from the hamlets, and the Milky Way can be admired with the naked eye.
Recommended spots within walking distance from the hotel include the port and the road entrance behind the hotel leading to the observation deck.
| January | 3. | 18. | 4.…Quadrantids Meteor Shower (Excellent) |
|---|---|---|---|
| February | 1. | 17. | |
| March | 3. | 18. | |
| April | 1. | 17. | 22. / 23.…the Lyre (Average) |
| May | 1.…Partial Solar Eclipse, 30. | 16. | 5. / 7.…the Aquarius (Good) |
| June | 29. | 14. | |
| July | 29. | 14.…Supermoon | 26. / 31.…the Aquarius, the Capricorn (Excellent) |
| August | 27. | 12. | 13.…the Perseus (Good)、20.…the Cygnus (Good) |
| September | 26. | 10. | 26.…Jupiter Opposition (see Galileo on Jupiter with the naked eye) |
| October | 25.…Partial Solar Eclipse | 10. | 22.…the Orion (Excellent) |
| November | 24. | 8. Total Solar Eclipse | 12.…the Aries (Good)、18.…the Leo |
| December | 23. | 8. | 14.…the Gemini (Good)、22.～23.…the Ursa Minor (Excellent) |
Recommended spots for sunrise/sunset.
Enjoy stunning sunrises and sunsets, each offering unique views depending on the season and your chosen spot.
Experience the enchanting beauty of a constantly changing, dreamlike landscape, and immerse yourself in the magnificence of nature.
Recommended places for sunset
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Unaji no sachi
Unaji no sachi Observation Deck
Situated on the northern side of the island, this observation deck offers a large open landscape with an uninterrupted horizon line. It's a popular spot in the summer for visitors to witness the sunset.
Located 3.5 kilometers from the hotel, a 15-minute drive.
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Inazaki
Inazaki Observation deck
Also situated on the northern side and often referred to as the Whale Observation Deck. From here, you can overlook the ocean with Kume and Tonaki islands in the distance. In winter, observers on the viewing tower help locate whales and communicate their positions to whale-watching boats.
Located 2.8 kilometers from the hotel, a 15-minute drive.
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Kami no hama
Kami no hama Observation deck
Renovated in 2020, this is the most recent observation deck on the island. The great terrace provides views of Ama Beach and the surrounding uninhabited islands. By scanning the QR code, you can get information about the different islands. It's a recommended spot for lunch or to watch the sunset.
Located 3 kilometers from the hotel, a 10-minute drive.
Recommended places for sunrise
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Mt. Takatsuki
Mt. Takatsuki Observation deck
Accessible by foot from the hotel, this observation deck offers two points with stunning views. There is also a relaxing walking path through the forest. It is recommended for watching the sunrise.
Located 0.7 kilometers from the hotel, a 20-minute walk.
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Furuzamami
Furuzamami Beach
Zamami's main beach, bustling with summer visitors and awarded 2 stars in the Michelin Guide.
A few meters into the water, a splendid view resembling an aquarium unfolds with dynamic shapes created by coral reefs and colorful fishes.
You can enjoy from the terrace the breath-taking view of the Kerama Blue.Amenities include rental shops, stores, toilets, paying showers. Lifeguards during the high season.
Located just 10 minutes from the hotel, we provide complimentary transportation.
Recommended tours
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Sunset
Sunset
The sea that was blue and twinkeling during the day changes at sunset with a calm ambience.
Take a paddleboard (SUP) ride in this dreamy landscape, where the calm water acts like a mirror, reflecting the beautiful sunset lights.Sunset SUP tour :: Adults￥6,000 / Children￥4,500
Our affiliated marine shop DRIFTER
シShort tour list page
https://www.drifter.okinawa.jp/tour/category/sup
The seasons in Zamami
Marine tours operate throughout the year, and until mid-November, you can enjoy the sea with just a swimsuit.
Zamami experiences a short winter and a long summer. Regardless of when you visit the island, you will get to experience the unique characteristics of Zamami's four seasons.
Compared to the bustling summer, Zamami becomes quieter and less crowded in the winter, with fewer people in the village and the sea.
If the sun is shining, the days are warm, providing an opportunity for a relaxed and enjoyable experience. This time of year is highly recommended for a visit.
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December-January
December-January
This marks the start of the short winter in Zamami, coinciding with the return of humpback whales to their beloved village.
During this time, the water temperature decreases, making the fishes more active, and the sea's transparency ranks among the best globally.
By the end of January, winter cherry trees begin to bloom, providing an early hint of spring compared to other places.Water 22-24℃ Air 15-32℃ Sunrise 7:00 - 7:20 Sunset 17:40 - 17:55 -
February-April
February-April
From the whale-watching season to the beach season.
This period offers warm days, comfortable mornings, and slightly cooler nights, especially if blessed by the sun.
It is a time of the year filled with various occasions and events in the village.Water 22-24℃ Air 18-24℃ Sunrise 6:00 - 7:00 Sunset 18:35 - 18:50 -
May-September
May-September
We recommend this season if you want to see the Kerama blue that the world falls in love with.
It is a bustling season with many visitors, filled with the vibrant energy of both people and nature.Water 24-28℃ Air 25-32℃ Sunrise 5:30 - 6:15 Sunset 18:35 - 19:25 -
October-November
October-November
Recommended season with the best balance between the sea, the wind, the weather, nature, and the number of visitors.
In November, the flagship event of the island, Fan Appreciation Month, is held every Saturday.Water 25-28℃ Air 22-30℃ Sunrise 6:30 - 6:45 Sunset 17:40 - 18:05
Events throughout the year
- AprilBeach opening
- JuneSabani race
Yacht race - AugustZamami festival
- SeptemberUmiugan
Amijike - OctoberVillagers' sport festival
- NovemberFan appreciation month
- DecemberChristmas party
New Year's Eve's bell ringing - JanuaryNew year gathering
- MarchWhale Music Festival
Hamauri (beach descending)
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Beach opening
Beach opening
Beach openings in Zamami, and Okinawa in general, occur much earlier compared to other parts of Japan. The annual beach opening ceremony takes place at Ama Beach in April.
The ceremony involves prayers for sea safety, and local children officially declare the beach open.
The day before the ceremony, villagers engage in traditional fishing called Amijike, where they swim with a net.
During the beach opening, participants enjoy crackers, fish karaage (fried fish), and onigiris made from the catches of the previous day.
The event concludes with children participating in a popular fish-catching game. -
Sabani race
Sabani race
The Sabani Race is a sailing competition covering a distance of 35.2 kilometers between Furuzamami Beach and Naha.
Sabani boats, traditionally crafted from a single trunk of Japanese cypress, are used in this race.
Historically, during the Ryukyu monarchy, this route served for trade with China, and during the Pacific War, it was the path taken by the U.S. army. Choosing this route for the race symbolizes a wish for peace. -
Zamami festival
Zamami festival
Zamami Festival is the largest celebration on the island and features the only fireworks display of the year.
Taking place at the outdoor stage near the History, Culture, and Health Promotion Center, the festival includes numerous food stands and is a successful event annually. -
Umiugan
Umiugan
Umiugan is a traditional event where islanders gather to pray for a successful harvest and fishing, family well-being, and safety at sea.
It is a significant occasion expressing gratitude for the sea's blessings.
At the Ibinume Shrine dedicated to the divinity of the sea, festivities include the visit of Miruku, dances dedicated to the divinity, and a popular Hari boat race, allowing participants to express their gratitude to the sea divinity. -
Fan appreciation month
Fan Appreciation Month is a special time when islanders express gratitude to the numerous fans who love Zamami.
Throughout the month, various events are organized, featuring highlights such as musical and dance performances, including Ryukyu traditional dance and eisa. These shows are a must-see, making the month a successful and enjoyable event for everyone on the island. -
Hamauri
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Hamauri
On the 3rd day of the 3rd month of the old calendar, women descend to the beach to purify themselves with seawater and pray for good health.
Families also gather on this day to share food at their ancestors' graves, a ritual known as shimi.
Women, after purification, board various boats that parade to pray for safe navigation at sea (Nagare buni).
Each boat raises a flag, symbolizing a wish for a bountiful fishing season. While playing sanshin and dancing, they express gratitude to their ancestors and celebrate the blessings of the abundant sea.
The boats link together during the parade, enhancing the sense of community.
This unique tradition of Nagarebuni is preserved only in Zamami in Okinawa.