What’s Winter Like in Amami Oshima?
From December to February, winter in Amami Oshima is mild compared to mainland Japan, with an average temperature of 14°C. However, strong winds can make it feel chilly, and the weather tends to be unpredictable, with many cloudy or rainy days.
Recommended Experience Tour for Winter
Given the unpredictable weather, cultural experiences are highly recommended during winter. One standout option is the Amami Oshima Textile Experience, which is conducted indoors, so you don’t need to worry about the rain.
In summer, the heat can make such activities difficult to fully enjoy, but in winter, the cool weather is perfect for focusing on intricate tasks. Highlights of this experience include:
- Kimono Dressing and Weaving: Unique to Japan, these activities allow you to connect with traditional craftsmanship.
- Mud-Dyeing: This fascinating technique, exclusive to Amami Oshima, uses a chemical reaction between iron and tannin to create a rich, glossy black color. During the tour, you can choose materials like T-shirts or scarves to create your own original piece.
What Is Oshima Tsumugi?
Oshima Tsumugi is a silk textile with a history dating back over 1,300 years. It’s considered one of the world’s three finest textiles, alongside Persian carpets and Gobelin tapestries.
The fabric is woven after pre-dyeing the threads with intricate patterns, a process that results in incredibly detailed designs. Mud-dyeing, a unique method, gives the fabric its signature glossy black finish, making it both beautiful and durable.
Oshima Tsumugi Tour Options
At Link Adventures, we offer the Amami Oshima Textile Experience, a tour menu featuring activities such as workshop tours, weaving, mud-dyeing, and kimono dressing.
Even though winter may not be the best time for swimming in the sea, Amami Oshima offers plenty of attractions to enjoy. Make your winter visit unforgettable with a hands-on cultural experience!
