Ama
あま
Industry & Occupation
Classification
- Major : Agriculture, Forestry, and Fishery Occupations
- Middle : Fishery Occupations
- Minor : Seaweed and Shellfish Harvesters
Summary
Traditional fishery occupation involving freediving to harvest seaweed and shellfish, requiring breath-hold underwater work and knowledge of the natural environment.
Description
Ama are fishery workers who dive into the sea without breathing apparatus to harvest seaweed, shellfish, pearl oysters, and more. They check tides and sea conditions beforehand and dive using equipment such as isosshiki, obi belt, and chest protector. Breath-hold diving requires advanced technique and physical strength. Harvested resources are pre-processed on site and supplied to markets or processors. In recent years, they also provide Ama hut experiences as tourism resources, contributing to regional revitalization and exchange activities.
Future Outlook
Challenges include declining birthrates, aging population, and labor shortages, but new roles are expected through integration with tourism experiences and environmental conservation activities.
Personality Traits
Calm and composed / Has cooperativeness / Has patience / Interested in the natural environment
Work Style
Freelance / Outdoor Work / Regional Revitalization Corps / Seasonal Labor / Tourism Business
Career Path
Apprentice Ama → Ama Artisan → Instructor/Successor → Tour Guide → Regional Revitalization Staff
Required Skills
Diving Technique / Marine Life Identification / Safety Management (Diving) / Tide and Weather Observation / Underwater Navigation
Recommended Skills
Diver Qualification / First Aid / Processing and Preservation Techniques / Small Vessel Operator License / Underwater Photography
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Adaptability | The ability to quickly respond to changes in weather and sea conditions is necessary. |
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Attention to detail is needed to distinguish shellfish and seaweed. |
| Physical Stamina & Endurance | High physical stamina is needed for prolonged diving and harvesting work. |
| Stress Tolerance | High stress tolerance is required for diving operations in harsh sea conditions. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Analytical & Logical Thinking | Advanced logical thinking is not required. |
| Creativity & Ideation | The work is mostly routine, so creativity is rarely required. |
| Numerical & Quantitative Analysis | There is almost no quantitative analysis work. |
Related Qualifications
- Diver License
- Small Vessel Operator License
Aliases
- Ama
- Freediving Fisher
Related Jobs
- Diver
- Fisher
- Seafood Processor