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This content has been automatically translated from Ukrainian.
Ama (in Japanese 海女, which literally means "woman of the sea") are traditional Japanese divers who have been gathering the gifts of the sea for over two thousand years. Their history dates back to times when people did not yet have modern fishing technologies and relied on their own strength and endurance to obtain food.
Ama are known for their ability to dive to significant depths without any equipment — only with a mask and sometimes with a light suit for protection against the cold. They collect sea urchins, octopuses, various types of shellfish, and especially valuable pearls that form in oyster shells. This work has always required great physical strength, endurance, and the ability to hold one's breath for several minutes.
Interestingly, since ancient times, it was women who were considered the best divers, as they were believed to be more resilient to the cold and able to stay underwater longer. Traditionally, ama worked in groups: one woman would dive, while others assisted her from the boat, monitored safety, and collected the catch. This profession has been passed down from mother to daughter for generations, forming a unique culture and a special female community.
Traditional Ama Clothing
In the past, ama would dive in simple white attire, consisting of a light shirt and a loincloth. The white color held special significance: it was believed to protect against evil sea spirits and made women more visible to their companions during diving. On their heads, they often wore a bandana or headband to keep their hair out of the way.
In the 20th century, as the pearl farming industry developed, ama began to use thin black wetsuits (wetsuit), which allowed them to work longer in cold water. However, in many coastal villages, for tourist demonstration performances, women still wear traditional white suits to preserve the historical appearance.
Thus, the clothing of ama is not only practical but also part of their spiritual culture. The white suit symbolizes a connection to the sea and ancient beliefs, while the modern wetsuit stands as evidence of adaptation to new conditions.
Modernity and Preservation of Tradition
Today, there are very few ama left, as modern fishing technologies have displaced ancient methods. However, in Japan, this tradition is preserved as a unique heritage. In some regions, such as Mie and Ise prefectures, the profession of ama has become part of tourist programs: visitors are shown demonstration dives, treated to seafood dishes, and told about the history of the "women of the sea."
For the ama themselves, this work still means not only earning a living but also a spiritual connection with the ocean.
Interesting Facts about Ama
- Ama Whistle: after each dive, women emit a characteristic whistling sound when releasing air. This is not only a way to recover their breath but also a unique "signature" of each diver. Researchers say that it can be used to identify a specific woman.
- Longevity in the Profession: many ama continue to work even in their 70s and 80s. Some women joke that "sea water preserves youth better than any cream."
- Connection to Pearl Farms: it was ama who assisted Mikimoto Kokichi in the 19th century when he developed the technology for cultivating pearls, which made Japan a global center of the pearl industry.
- Female Community: in many villages, there are "ama houses" — special huts where women rest, warm up by the fire after diving, and socialize. This is not only a workplace but also a cultural center of their lives.
Thus, ama are more than just divers. They are a symbol of strength, endurance, and connection to the sea. Their tradition combines ancient beliefs, unique skills, and female solidarity, which have helped preserve the profession for millennia.
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