Exploring Ōshima Subprefecture: A Guide to the Amami Islands
Located within the Kagoshima Prefecture of Japan, Ōshima Subprefecture (Ōshima-shichō) serves as a vital administrative division encompassing a beautiful chain of islands. With its central subprefectural office situated in the city of Amami, this region is defined by its unique island geography and organized administrative structure.

Key Facts
- Location: Part of Kagoshima Prefecture, Japan.
- Administrative Center: Amami City.
- Geographic Scope: Includes the Amami Islands.
- Administrative Divisions: Divided into several offices including Setouchi, Kikai, Tokunoshima, and Okinoerabu.
Administrative Structure and Municipalities
The Ōshima Subprefecture is organized into several distinct offices, each overseeing specific municipalities across the islands. This structure ensures that local governance is managed effectively across the various landmasses, including Amami Ōshima, Kikaijima, Tokunoshima, Okinoerabujima, and Yoronjima.
The Amami Islands Groupings
The subprefecture is categorized by its regional offices, which manage the following towns, cities, and villages:
- Ōshima Subprefectural Office: Oversees the city of Amami, the town of Tatsugō, and the villages of Yamato and Uken, all located on Amami Ōshima.
- Setouchi Office: Manages the town of Setouchi, which encompasses several islands including Kakeromajima, Yoroshima, and Ukejima.
- Kikai Office: Responsible for the town of Kikai on Kikaijima.
- Tokunoshima Office: Governs the towns of Tokunoshima, Amagi, and Isen on Tokunoshima island.
- Okinoerabu Office: Oversees the towns of Wadomari and China on Okinoerabujima, as well as the town of Yoron on Yoronjima.
Summary of Administrative Offices
The following table provides a quick reference for the locations and addresses of the various administrative offices within the subprefecture.
| Office Name | Address | Postal Code |
|---|---|---|
| Ōshima Subprefecture | 17-3 Naze Nagatachō, Amami-shi, Kagoshima-ken | 894-8501 |
| Setouchi Office | 36 Koniya Funatsu, Setouchi-chō, Kagoshima-ken | 894-1506 |
| Kikai Office | 2901-14 Akaren, Kikai-chō, Kagoshima-ken | 891-6201 |
| Tokunoshima Office | 216 Kametsu, Tokunoshima-chō, Kagoshima-ken | 891-7101 |
| Okinoerabu Office | 134-1 Tedechina, Wadomari-chō, Kagoshima-ken | 891-9111 |
| Yoron Town Resident Office | 1420-2 Chabana, Yoron-chō, Kagoshima-ken | 891-9301 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the main office for Ōshima Subprefecture located?
The main subprefectural office is located in Amami City at 17-3 Naze Nagatachō, Kagoshima-ken, 894-8501.
Which islands are included in the Ōshima Subprefecture?
The subprefecture includes the Amami Islands, specifically mentioning Amami Ōshima, Kikaijima, Tokunoshima, Okinoerabujima, and Yoronjima.
What is the role of the Setouchi Office?
The Setouchi Office manages the town of Setouchi and surrounding areas, including Kakeromajima, Yoroshima, and Ukejima.
Is there a specific office for Yoron Town?
Yes, Yoron Town is managed via the Yoron Town Resident Office, located at 1420-2 Chabana, Yoron-chō, Kagoshima-ken.
How many main administrative offices are there in the subprefecture?
There are five primary administrative offices: Ōshima, Setouchi, Kikai, Tokunoshima, and Okinoerabu.