Concept/Kuyumi

Events throughout the year

1. AprilBeach opening
2. JuneSabani race
   Yacht race
3. AugustZamami festival
4. SeptemberUmiugan
   Amijike
5. OctoberVillagers' sport festival
6. NovemberFan appreciation month
7. DecemberChristmas party
   New Year's Eve's bell ringing
8. JanuaryNew year gathering
9. MarchWhale Music Festival
   Hamauri (beach descending)

• 

  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

  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

  >

  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.

The seasons in Zamami

• 

  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

Recommended spots for sunrise/sunset.

Recommended places for sunset

• 

  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.

• 

  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.

• 

  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

• 

  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.

• 

  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

• 

  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

2023 calender: New moon / Full moon / Meteor shower