Concept/Shima Ashibee

History/culture

• • 
  • 
  • 

  Ryūkyū glass

  After the war, the scarcity of materials led to the reuse of jars, marking the history of Ryūkyū glass.
  Nowadays, while a variety of Ryūkyū glass no longer reuses jars, at Kanusuba and in the restaurant, we continue to use items from the Seitei Glass Atelier, repurposing old Awamori and beer bins.
  Appreciate the warm shades of this recycled glass, respectful of the environment.

  Available for sell at the front desk.
  Online shop here :: https://kanusuba.jp/shop/

• • 
  • 

  Okinawan Traditional Pottery Workshop on the Terrace
  • 
  • 

  In the Okinawans, Shisa creatures are considered like talismans. Try your hand at creating your adorable Shisa in this workshop.

  Okinawa craft workshop : Shisa / Bingata dyeing

  Bingata dyeing using traditional methods and natural dyes from Okinawan nature. It also draws inspiration from nature for its design.
  Kits suitable for both adults and kids are available at the hotel front desk, providing all necessary materials.

  Craft at your own pace on the terrace. It is also great for kids to experiment while creating their own piece of art.
  Once completed, works can be sent by post for an additional fee.

  Kit available for sell at the hotel front desk.
  Shisa workshop ¥2,500 / Bingata dyeing workshop ¥2,500

• • 
  • 
  • 

  Zamami Kakashi

  Every year in Zamami, there is a swordfish fishing tournament, and even the owner of Kanusuba participates.
  Due to the recent corona crisis, when the fishery in Okinawa faced challenges, fishermen in Zamami sold the swordfish they caught, turning it into a local specialty.
  The intention behind this initiative was to contribute, even if just a little, to the development of Zamami's fishery.
  In Okinawan, the term "kakashi" refers to a dried snack. It is jerky, and the more you bite into it, the more you can taste the flavor of the swordfish. It does not contain any additives, making it suitable for kids as well.

  Available for sell at the hotel front desk.
  Zamami kakashi ￥1,100

• 

  Yachimun

  

  Yachimun

  In Okinawan, the term yachimun translates to porcelain.
  Yachimun has an ancient history, originating from the time of trade between the Ryukyu Kingdom and the Southeast Asian archipelago. For this reason, it was developed by incorporating various techniques.
  In the 1960s, the smoke from the pottery stoves became a concern in Naha, leading the craftsmen to decide to move to Yomitan Village, in what is known now as Yachimun Village (Yachimun no sato).
  The owner and the chef carefully selected each cup and vessel from Yachimun Village and there is a unique sensation when sipping your morning coffee from the warm Yachimun cup.

• 

  Wells

  

  Wells

  In Okinawa, it is believed that gods dwell in wells. In Zamami, there are eleven sacred wells.
  Our hotel stands next to the one said to be the most sacred.
  The name Kānusuba refers to the place "near the well" in the island dialect. We chose this name with the intention of welcoming travelers next to this sacred well.
  The well has been constructed by hand using Ryukyu limestones.

• 

  Torii

  

  Torii

  In Zamami, numerous worship places (uganju) with red torii gates can be found.
  The largest is located near the port at Ibinume Shrine, dedicated to the god of the sea. Islanders pray here for safety at sea and a bountiful harvest.
  The torii visible from all guest rooms at Kanusuba is believed to be dedicated to the divinity of studies.
  The sacred tree in front of the torii is a bishop wood, inspiring the name of our restaurant, Akagi, which is the word for this kind of tree in Japanese.

• 

  Marylin's Statue

  

  Marylin's Statue

  Based on the true story of Marylin, a dog that used to live in Zamami and became famous thanks to the movie "Wanting to meet Marilyn."
  Her dog boyfriend, Shiro, from the neighboring island Aka, would cross the sea every day, and she would eagerly wait for his arrival.
  While both dogs have passed away, a statue of Shiro looking in the direction of Marylin has been erected on Aka island.
  Thanks to these two statues, in a way, these two dogs still cross the sea to meet each other. Marylin's statue is a famous spot to admire the sunset.

• 

  Tower of Peace

  

  Tower of Peace

  Zamami Village holds historical significance as the first place invaded by the American army during the Battle of Okinawa in the Pacific War.
  Fierce battles occurred within the island, and it carries a somber history of mass suicide by the population during that time.
  The Tower of Peace is dedicated to the 1220 islanders and soldiers who lost their lives, with all their names engraved.
  Every 26th of March, the day of the invasion, many islanders visit the monument to pray.
  Built in March 1958, the tower also serves as an observation point, offering panoramic views of Zamami hamlet and the beautiful sea.

  It is a 10-minute walk from the hotel.

Walking the island

• 

  Shisa

  

  Shisa

  Shisa serves as a charm against evils and can be found throughout the village. The majestic Shisas in front of the village office, along with the cute, colorful, hand-made Shisas, protect the village.

  A recommended Shisa photo spot is in front of 105 Store, just 1 minute away from the hotel.

• 

  Manholes

  

  Manholes

  While strolling, take a look at the ground, and you might notice manholes with designs representing humpback whales that return to Zamami every winter. In the neighboring Aka island, manholes depict Kerama deers, a designated special species.

  How to get to Aka island
  Time schedule for the intra-village boat Mitsushima :: https://www.vill.zamami.okinawa.jp/info/trans.html

• 

  Plants in Zamami

  

  Plants in Zamami

  Zamami is home to numerous plants. Some, like umbrella trees and fountain palms, are used in traditional crafts, while others, like getto, are utilized in creating natural cosmetics or as food.

  Available to see at the hotel front.
  Zamama plants document (Coming soon)

• 

  Whale statue

  

  Whale statue

  In tribute to the whales you can encounter in Zamami during winter, this statue, known as the "treasure whale," has its paint redone every January. Located at the entrance of Zamami, it warmly welcomes both islanders and tourists alike.

  The Whale Park is 10 minutes from the hotel.

• 

  105 Store

  

  105 Store

  Affectionately nicknamed "maru-go" by the islanders, the 105 Store is the largest store on the island. It's filled with articles unique to Okinawa. You might even spot older islanders sitting at the bench near the entrance, engaging in friendly chats.

  The 105 Store is open every day from 7:00 to 21:00 and is just 1 minute away from the hotel.

• 

  Ao no yukuru Kan

  

  Ao no yukuru Kan

  The Visitor Center, opened in October 2021, features a Virtual Reality video providing an impressive 360-degree experience of the sea. It is recommended for kids to explore detailed displays showcasing the nature and history of Zamami. The center includes a cafe and a space for observing the port, making it a convenient option during rainy weather or while waiting for a boat.

  Free entrance, WiFi available. Located 5 minutes from the hotel.
  Located 5 minutes from the hotel.

Observation decks

• 

  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.

• 

  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.

• 

  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.

• 

  Chishi

  

  Chishi Observation deck

  Found on a 30-meter-high cliff on the northern side, this observation deck provides a unique view of harsh cliffs and rocks. It is a distinctive spot where you can also see Aguni Island and others.

  Located 3.3 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.