Japan's Aging Ama Divers: A Tradition Facing Extinction

Japan's tradition of female free divers, known as 'ama,' faces decline as their numbers dwindle due to aging and lack of interest from younger generations. Despite their significant cultural role, the practice is struggling to attract new divers, with the average age now at 72 and the community's numbers falling sharply.

Japan's storied 'ama' lit up the night with torches as they carried out a ceremonial dive, praying for an abundant catch. But this tradition is now in jeopardy.

Of the 80 participants in this year's ceremonial event in Minamiboso, most were volunteers due to dwindling numbers of female divers. The profession faces a stark decline as younger generations show little interest. The Shirahama district saw the number of active ama fall to 40 last year, a 70% drop since 2006.

The average age of ama divers has risen to 72, up from 68 in 2006. Festival organizer Shoichi Iida noted that those who dive regularly are aging, and retaining the festival has required community cooperation.

(With inputs from agencies.)