Skip to main content

Deep Dive: Ama-San (2016)

Film Lens

Ama-San
Ama-San focuses on the tradition of female divers in Japan, known as Ama-San, who have been harvesting abalone for over 2,000 years. The film is set in the coastal regions of Japan and features skilled women diving to depths of up to 30 meters, relying on their breath-holding abilities to collect the prized shellfish. This practice is deeply rooted in their cultural heritage and connection to the ocean. The documentary also addresses the modern challenges faced by the Ama-San as they strive to preserve this ancient tradition in a rapidly changing world. Directed by Tiago Hespanha, the film captures the essence of the Ama-San's lifestyle and the importance of their work in maintaining their cultural identity.

Why Watch

  • Meet the Ama-San divers of Japan.
  • See women dive to 30 meters for abalone.
  • Find out about a 2,000-year-old tradition.

Did You Know

The Ama-San have harvested abalone for over 2,000 years.
The divers can dive to depths of up to 30 meters.
The film has a duration of 113 minutes.
Ama-San is produced in three countries: Japan, Portugal, and China.

Perfect For

Cultural heritageMarine biologyWomen in film