20 Jun 2023

Weaving through Amami-Oshima's Mangrove Forest and Silk Textiles

Today began with an early start as we departed from Heritage Adventurer at 0620, embarking on an adventure to the Amami Nature Observation Forest accompanied by the esteemed naturalist and interpreter, Steve. The lush forests of Amami are said to consist of approximately 70% beech trees, predominantly oak and chestnut, while the remaining 30% showcases a diverse array of tree species. From a distance, this unique composition gives the forest an intriguing appearance that has been aptly referred to as the 'Broccoli Forest'. As we strolled through the park, guided by renowned local naturalist and conservationist Tsuneda San, assisted by interpreter Steve, we were fortunate to spot fascinating endemic creatures such as the Sword-tailed Newt, Ryukyu Green-pigeon, and Ryukyu Robin. Some of us were particularly eager to catch a glimpse of the Amami Rabbit.

Our next destination led us to the Oshima Tsumugi Village, where the exquisite Oshima Tsumugi silk fabric has been produced for more than 1,300 years. The fine silk, also known as 'silk pongee', boasts a unique dyeing process where the fabric is repeatedly submerged in mud fields to achieve its vibrant colours. Not only is the fabric durable, but also breathable and comfortable. We walked through the various workstations, immersing ourselves in the intricate art of dyeing, design, and weaving. The journey began with the use of Sharinbai (Yeddo hawthorn) tree dye, transforming the fabric into a deep, glossy black, which is a distinguishing feature of Oshima Tsumugi. Before returning to Heritage Adventurer for lunch, some of us took the opportunity to enjoy a refreshing swim at Bashayama and a leisurely stroll along the beach, while others ventured to Ose Coast for birdwatching and to explore the tidal pools of the South China Sea. As the day progressed, the temperature rose to a warm 28°C, aligning with our location at 28 degrees latitude.

Amami is also renowned for housing the second largest mangrove forest in Japan. In the afternoon, following a visit to the impressive Amami-Oshima World Heritage Conservation Centre, we ventured into the enchanting mangrove forest. As we meandered through this vibrant ecosystem, we marvelled at the wonders of nature and the diverse marine life thriving within.

Image (c) by: F.Wardle