Zamami Island is a hidden gem in Okinawa Prefecture, known for its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters. Located about 40 km west of Naha, the island is part of the Kerama Islands and boasts a rich history of fishing and maritime culture. With a population of around 600 residents, it maintains a quiet, small-town charm. As ferries to the island are limited, Zamami is able to avoid overtourism, preserving its peaceful atmosphere. Its most famous attraction, Furuzamami Beach, has been awarded two stars in the Michelin Green Guide Japan, making it a must-visit destination for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts alike. Interestingly, the island has only one crosswalk, which was added solely to teach children how to use one. Additionally, the only store on the island closes at 8pm and many cats roam freely throughout the island, adding to its relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. While there are accessibility challenges, the island has clear potential to become a more inclusive destination with the right adaptations.
I was invited to explore the possibilities of improving accessibility on the island and assess how small changes could make a big difference for visitors with disabilities or other mobility challenges.
To reach Zamami, travelers have two ferry options. The slower Ferry Zamami 3, which I took with my tour group, allows vehicles onboard and offers a more relaxed journey. Since there is no accessible transportation on the island, we brought an accessible van to get around. Accessibility-wise, it has a ramp to board, though it is a bit steep and may require assistance.
There are designated wheelchair spaces with tie-down straps, a raised carpeted seating/sleeping area that even has a ramp for wheelchair users to sit near family or friends, and a large accessible toilet (though it lacks back support, which could be useful on a moving ship). However, the upper decks are only accessible via stairs.
The high-speed ferry, Queen Zamami, provides a quicker option with a top-level deck and benches at the boarding area, and main seating inside the cabin on the lower floor. There is a stair lift to the lower deck where there is wheelchair seating with tie-downs, and an accessible toilet. However, most stair lifts in Japan have a weight limit of 200 kg, which may pose challenges for larger power wheelchairs.
Upon arrival, our first stop was the local tourism center, Ao Yukuru Kan, where we met with a representative from the Zamami Village Tourism Association. This facility is wheelchair-friendly, featuring an accessible toilet (ask staff for access), interactive exhibits that are easy to reach from wheelchair hight, and a café with a priority seating area at the counter. However, the second-floor terrace is only accessible by stairs.
For lunch, we visited Wayama Mozuku, a local favorite known for its delicious soba noodles made with locally sourced mozuku seaweed. While the indoor seating required going up two steps, there was a picnic bench outside, which is a good alternative if the weather is nice. Since the bench is first-come, first-served, calling ahead is recommended.
In the afternoon, we used our lift-equipped van to visit various accommodations. Unfortunately, most lodgings on Zamami have steps and none have a designated accessible rooms. However, the staff at each location were extremely accommodating, providing clear descriptions of their facilities and offering assistance when possible when discussing their facilities with potential visitors. Travelers with some mobility (ie can stand and go up one step) can likely manage, but those requiring fully step-free access will find options limited.
The most accessible accommodation we found was Kanusuba Zamami, which has two ground-floor rooms. I brought a small portable ramp for a minor step at the entrance, and after discussing accessibility needs with the staff, they expressed interest in acquiring their own. There is a small lip at the entrance to the rooms and the restaurant, but I was able to gut up and down them with minimal assistance in my power wheelchair.
The room itself was a bit tight, requiring careful maneuvering, but I could access the toilet and shower stall with some effort. The hotel even purchased a shower chair in anticipation of my visit which helped me a lot and will likely help many other visitors in the future. Additionally, they have two outdoor shower stalls, which were designed for rinsing off after visiting the beach, but could be used by wheelchair users if the in-room shower is too difficult to access.
The next day, we explored the island’s main attractions. First, we visited Ama Beach, which is a 20-minute walk from the port (though we used our accessible van). A newly built accessible toilet at the beach was spacious and clean.
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.
We then visited Kami-no-hama Observation Deck. While the site is also walkable from the port, the steep path makes driving a better option. The deck itself is wheelchair accessible via a smooth but steep path, followed by a ramp leading to the observation area. Note that there are no restrooms at this location.
Next, we attempted to visit Unajinosachi Observation Deck, but access is restricted by stairs. While wheelchair users cannot reach the deck itself, some views are still visible from the entrance.
Furuzamami Beach, the island’s Michelin-starred highlight, was our final stop before heading back. Although it is a 20-30 minute walk from the port, the hilly terrain would be challenging for most visitors with mobility disabilities. The beach house has a deck with picnic benches, though only the top section is accessible (and that required using my small ramp to access).
Before arriving at the beach house, there are two paths lead toward the beach, but both end in sand, preventing full wheelchair access.
Before boarding our ferry back to Naha, we enjoyed a meal at Pokapoka, a small lodge that also runs a café operating out of a converted garage. The owner, who also runs a marine sports company called Chinajun, expressed interest in making marine activities more accessible for visitors with varying needs (with support).
Toilet note: in addition to the toilets at Ao Yukuru Kan and Ama Beach, there is a 24-hour accessible toilet at the nearby Zamami Community Center, as well as another at the port.
While the island presents challenges for wheelchair users and others with mobility disabilities, it is possible to enjoy a day trip from Naha with careful planning. Ama Beach offers the most accessibility potential, and with the right equipment, it could become a fully inclusive destination. For scenic views, Kami-no-hama Observation Deck is the best choice. For an overnight stay, Kanusuba Zamami is the most accessible accommodation, though travelers should communicate their specific needs in advance.
The Zamami Village Tourism Association showed great interest in improving accessibility, and we discussed the potential for beach wheelchairs and Mobi-mats to enhance beach access. Simple, economical changes could significantly improve the experience for visitors with disabilities. Leaving Zamami, I felt inspired and excited to return, eager to see the accessibility improvements that may soon be in place.
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