Things To Do
in Ama

Ama, Japan, is a quaint coastal city known for its breathtaking ocean views and rich cultural heritage. It is particularly famous for its unique tradition of female divers, known as 'Ama-san,' who collect pearls and seafood from the ocean. The town offers a tranquil atmosphere with beautiful beaches, lush countryside, and friendly local communities.

Visitors can immerse themselves in both nature and history, making it an ideal spot for a peaceful getaway.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Local Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Ama Sea Divers Museum to learn about the traditional diving culture and see exhibits on local marine life.

afternoon
:

Take a leisurely walk along Ama's scenic coastline, stopping at local craft shops and enjoying the views of the ocean.

evening
:

Dine at a local seafood restaurant to savor fresh catches of the day, followed by a stroll on the beach as the sun sets.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

Begin with a hike on the nearby Yagumo Mountain Trail, which offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

afternoon
:

Visit the local farmers' market to sample fresh produce and handmade goods, then head to a nearby beach for some relaxation or swimming.

evening
:

Conclude the day with a traditional onsen experience, soaking in hot springs while enjoying the natural surroundings.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍣Sushi meal$15
🍜Ramen bowl$10
Coffee$4
🚍Local bus fare$2
🏨Budget hotel per night$80

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural scenery and coastal views.
  • Rich cultural heritage and unique traditions.
  • Friendly and welcoming local communities.
  • Limited nightlife options for party-goers.
  • Public transportation can be infrequent.
  • Language barrier may exist for non-Japanese speakers.
  • "こんにちは" - Hello
  • "ありがとう" - Thank you
  • "おいしいです" - It's delicious
  • "すみません" - Excuse me/Sorry
  • "はい" - Yes

Places to Visit in Ama

Visit one of these nice places.

Ama Coastline

Capture stunning sunsets and dramatic sea views along the scenic coastline.

Yagumo Mountain

Provides breathtaking panoramic views of Ama and the surrounding ocean.

Ama Sea Divers

Photograph the legendary Ama divers in action, showcasing their unique tradition.

Culinary Guide

Food in Ama

Ama boasts a vibrant culinary scene, heavily influenced by its coastal location, featuring fresh seafood and local produce.

Ama Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Ise-ebi (Lobster)

A local delicacy, often grilled or served as sashimi.

Must-Try!

Tuna Sashimi

Freshly caught and sliced, it's a must-try for seafood lovers.

Ayu (Sweetfish)

A local fish delicacy, usually grilled and eaten in summer.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Ama Farmers' Market

A vibrant market showcasing local produce, seafood, and handmade crafts.

Street stalls near the beach

Vendors sell quick bites like grilled seafood skewers and sweet treats.

Climate Guide

Weather

Ama experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Spring (March to May) is mild with cherry blossoms. Summer (June to August) is warm and humid, ideal for beach activities. Autumn (September to November) sees cooler temperatures and beautiful foliage. Winter (December to February) is cold, with occasional snowfall, but the hot springs provide a warm retreat.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Politeness

Always bow when greeting; it's a sign of respect.

Shoes Off Indoors

Remove shoes when entering homes or certain traditional establishments.

Quiet Public Behavior

Maintain a low volume in public spaces to respect others.

Safety Guide

Safety

Ama is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, it's wise to take standard precautions like keeping valuables secure and being aware of surroundings. In case of emergencies, the local police and hospitals are accessible.

Tipping in Ama

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Japan; excellent service is expected.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used; however, many places now accept credit cards.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild weather with blooming cherry blossoms, ideal for outdoor activities.

Summer

Warm temperatures perfect for beach activities and local festivals.

Autumn

Cooler weather with beautiful autumn leaves, great for hiking.

Winter

Cold but scenic, with fewer tourists; ideal for enjoying hot springs.

Nightlife Guide

Ama at Night

Ama has a laid-back nightlife, with local bars and izakayas offering a cozy atmosphere. You can enjoy fresh seafood and local sake in a relaxed setting, often with live music or karaoke. The nightlife is more about socializing than partying, making it perfect for a mellow evening out.

Hiking in Ama

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Yagumo Mountain Trail

A well-marked trail offering beautiful views of the coastline and surrounding areas, suitable for all skill levels.

Kamikita Trail

A more challenging hike that leads to a scenic viewpoint overlooking the sea, perfect for experienced hikers.

Airports

How to reach Ama by plane.

Chubu Centrair International Airport

Located approximately 90 minutes from Ama, this airport serves both domestic and international flights, making it the main gateway for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Ama is quite walkable, with many attractions located within a short distance of each other. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and the scenic routes along the coastline provide pleasant walking experiences. However, some areas may require a bit of uphill walking, especially near the mountains.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Fishermen

Many locals are involved in fishing and seafood collection, continuing the town's traditional heritage.

Tourists

Visitors from around the world come to experience Ama's culture, food, and natural beauty.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

A favorite pastime in Japan, with local teams and community matches attracting many fans.

Soccer

Growing in popularity, with local clubs and youth leagues actively participating in competitions.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Ama is generally light, making it easy to navigate the town by foot or bicycle. Public transportation includes local buses, which connect various parts of the city, though schedules may vary. It's advisable to check bus times ahead of travel, especially for longer journeys.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Ama.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Most restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but always check for fish sauce in sauces.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options might be limited; it's advisable to inquire with chefs.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Ama is good, with several clinics and a hospital available for residents and visitors. Emergency services can be reached easily, and most staff members can communicate in basic English. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide