Zamami Island is a picturesque island in Okinawa Prefecture, part of the Kerama Islands group. Known for its “Kerama Blue” crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and vibrant coral reefs, Zamami is a popular destination for snorkeling, diving, and whale watching. While accessibility can be challenging, the ferry ride to the island, exploring the town, and walking to Ama Beach can make for a relaxing day trip.
Background Information
Zamami’s history stretches back to the days of the Ryukyu Kingdom (1429–1879), when it played a key role in maritime trade between Okinawa and China. Seafarers relied on the Kerama Islands as navigational points, while local communities thrived on fishing and farming.
During the Edo period (1603–1868), the island remained relatively isolated despite its ties to both Japanese and Chinese cultures. That changed with the Meiji Restoration (1868), when Okinawa was officially annexed by Japan, leading to the end of the Ryukyu Kingdom.
Zamami also holds a somber place in history as one of the first Okinawan islands to be occupied during World War II. On March 26, 1945, U.S. forces landed here, and tragically, many residents took their lives in mass suicides. Today, sites like the Peace Monument in Zamami Village serve as a solemn reminder of the island’s wartime past.
With a small community of around 600 residents, Zamami Village is the island’s heart, offering a glimpse into traditional Ryukyuan culture. Though modern conveniences are limited—there’s just one general store—visitors will find welcoming guesthouses, cozy eateries, and an unhurried island atmosphere. Supplies mostly come from Okinawa’s main island, adding to the island’s peaceful, off-the-beaten-path charm.
Now part of Keramashoto National Park, Zamami is celebrated for its outstanding natural beauty and diverse marine life. The island’s Furuzamami Beach has been awarded two stars in the Michelin Green Guide Japan, a testament to its stunning shoreline and crystal-clear waters. Scenic viewpoints, and observation decks offer unforgettable vistas of the East China Sea.
Getting There
Travelers can reach Zamami Island from Naha’s Tomari Port via two ferry options: the Ferry Zamami 3 and the Queen Zamami high-speed ferry.
The Ferry Zamami 3 is a slower but more spacious option, accommodating vehicles and passengers. It takes about two hours and costs ¥2,150 one-way (¥4,090 round-trip). This ferry has a boarding ramp, though it is a bit steep and wheelchair users may require assistance. Inside, it features designated wheelchair spaces with tie-down straps, a carpeted seating/sleeping area with ramp access, and a large accessible toilet. However, the upper decks are only accessible via stairs. Since Zamami lacks accessible transportation, travelers needing mobility support may consider bringing a rental accessible vehicle aboard or travel with a tour operator providing an accessible vehicle.
The Queen Zamami high-speed ferry is a faster alternative, taking about one hour for ¥3,200 one-way (¥6,080 round-trip). While it has an accessible boarding area and a stair lift leading to the lower deck, the lift’s weight limit may be restrictive for larger power wheelchairs. The lower main cabin has wheelchair seating with tie-downs and an accessible restroom, though upper decks only has benches.
Both ferries provide accessible options, but travelers should plan ahead based on mobility needs, ferry schedules and whether they are doing a day trip or staying the night.
Accessibility
Zamami Island presents several accessibility challenges for travelers with disabilities. Notably, there is no accessible public transportation on the island, making independent mobility difficult, however it is possible to explore the town without transportation, and Ama Beach is a roughly 20 minute walk from the port on flat ground.
The main visitor center, Ao Yukuru Kan has a ramp at both entrances, wheelchair height interactive exhibits, and a cafe with priority seating for those who require it. Unfortunately, the terrace on the second floor can only be accessed by a staircase.
Accessible restroom facilities are limited on Zamami Island. Wheelchair-accessible toilets can be found at Zamami Port Terminal, Ao Yukuru Kan, Zamami Village Community Center, and Ama Beach Campground.
With the exception of Ao Yukuru Kan and the port, there is no tactile paving on Zamami Island.
Most accommodations lack accessibility features and have steps within the rooms, limiting lodging options for wheelchair users, possibly making a day trip the better option depending on mobility level. Through outdoor seating options, some restaurants are accessible, though many are inside lodgings and have steps. The one store on the island has a ramp but aisles are very narrow and have products placed on the floor in some place.
Beaches
The island’s renowned beaches, such as Furuzamami Beach and Ama Beach, are celebrated for their beauty but pose challenges for wheelchair users due to sandy terrains and lack of accessible pathways. Currently, there are no beach wheelchairs or matting available on the island.
Ama Beach is a 20-minute walk from the port on flat paved roads. While a stone-block path leads to the beach, wheelchair users will face challenges once the path ends, as the sand makes further access difficult.
Furuzamami Beach, one of the most famous on the island, is located a few kilometers from Zamami Village, but the road is mountainous and steep in some parts, requiring visitors with mobility disabilities to arrange private transportation on Okinawa’s main island to bring with them. On the way to the the parking / beach house, there are two paths which lead toward the beach, but both end in sand, preventing full wheelchair access. The beach house has a deck overlooking the beach with picnic benches, however only the top section is accessible (and that requires getting up a small step).
Observation Points
Zamami offers several observation points that provide stunning views of the island and surrounding ocean. However, these spots are of course situated on elevated terrains and will require an accessible vehicle to reach for those with mobility disabilities.
The popular Inazaki Observatory, known for whale watching, has a ramp leading up to the lower level of the observation allowing visitors to enjoy partial views of the ocean, though the tower only has stairs.
Kami-no-hama Observation Deck offers also offers an accessible option. While the road leading up to it is steep, it is paved, and the deck itself is wheelchair accessible via a smooth pathway followed by a ramp leading to the observation area.
Unajinosachi Observation Deck is not wheelchair accessible, as access is restricted by stairs. While the deck itself cannot be reached by wheelchair users, some scenic views can still be enjoyed from the entrance area.
