Looking for Unique Finds That Blend Tradition and Modern Style in Amami Island
Amami Oshima is home to a rich heritage of craftsmanship and natural beauty. From centuries-old silk textiles like Oshima Tsumugi to contemporary apparel inspired by tropical landscapes, the island offers one-of-a-kind items you won’t find anywhere else.
Local Charm You Can Wear or Take Home
Explore how Amami’s traditional craftsmanship and natural resources are reflected in locally made clothing, accessories, and specialty goods. Here are some recommended shops, divided into three categories:
① Oshima Tsumugi & Crafts
② Island-Made Items & Accessories
③ Edible Souvenirs
①Oshima Tsumugi & Crafts Shops
Oshima Tsumugi is a traditional silk textile that has been produced on Amami Oshima for over 1,300 years. It is known for its distinctive deep black color, created using a unique mud-dyeing technique. While it was originally used to make kimono, today it has been adapted into modern items such as stylish shirts, bags, and other accessories.
Higo Senshoku
Founded in 1973, Higo Senshoku is the workshop behind the brand Amami Earth Color. Using natural materials sourced from the island, the studio creates and sells modern pieces in vibrant hues that reflect the beauty of Amami’s landscape.
Google map (in Tatsugo)
Tsumugi Leather KASURI
Handcrafted Items Combining Traditional Oshima Tsumugi and Modern Leatherwork
Each item is carefully handmade, blending the refined texture of leather with the elegant charm of Oshima Tsumugi fabric. The result is a truly unique collection of wallets, cardholders, key cases, and other small accessories. Available for purchase at the store.
Google map (in Naze)
Tsumugi no NISHI
This shop offers classic items made with Oshima Tsumugi, such as jackets and bags. Perfect for those seeking authentic, high-quality pieces with a sense of elegance and tradition.
Google map (in Naze)
②Island Original Items & Accessories Shops
Many shops in Amami Oshima offer apparel inspired by the island’s tropical nature, as well as handcrafted items made from materials like turban shells. You’re sure to find unique treasures that can only be discovered here nowhere else in the world.
TORTUGA
Original apparel featuring Amami-inspired designs, along with accessories made from traditional Oshima Tsumugi textile are available for purchase.
Google map (in Naze)
Hara Habuya
This shop offers a wide variety of fun and original items, including keychains and wallets made from real habu snake skin, accessories, T-shirts, and original stickers full of local humor. At the Kasari Store, live habu snakes are kept and cared for as part of the display.
Google map (Naze store)
Google map (Kasari store)
GUNACRIB
This shop features clothing from devadurga, a unique brand created by a designer from the island. Many of the items are dyed using “Dorozome”, a traditional Amami mud-dyeing technique.
These one-of-a-kind designs blend island tradition with modern style, offering something truly special.
Google map (in Naze)
Museum shop 【flat】
The shop inside the World Heritage Center offers clothing dyed using traditional mud-dyeing techniques, as well as apparel and accessories inspired by the island’s rich natural environment. The store also carries select items from The North Face.
Google map (in Sumiyo)
③Edible Souvenirs Shops
Amami Oshima is famous for its rich brown sugar, vibrant tropical fruits, and locally distilled shochu. Exploring these southern island delicacies makes for a delicious and memorable part of any visit.
okuru amami
This shop offers a variety of relatively new products made with ingredients from Amami Oshima and the surrounding islands such as snacks, craft beer, soft drinks, and jams. Many of these items are only available in Amami, making them perfect as unique souvenirs.
Google map (in Naze)
Yamaa
This spacious store offers a wide selection of traditional island goods, such as salt, brown sugar, and miso, as well as long-time local favorites like classic island sweets.
It’s a great place to explore Amami’s time-honored flavors and take home authentic souvenirs.
Google map (in Naze)
