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Ōshima Strait

geography Maturity 11-13 Next article →

The Ōshima Strait is a significant body of water located in Japan.

East side of Oshima straight
East side of Oshima straight

It sits between the islands of Amami Ōshima and Kakeromajima. This waterway is a key part of a protected region. Specifically, it is included within the Amami Guntō National Park. This national park designation helps protect the local environment. The strait serves as a natural corridor between these landmasses. It is a vital part of the local geography and ecosystem.

To understand the scale of the strait, we can look at its dimensions. The distance from the westernmost side to the easternmost side is measurable. It measures 17.5 miles across the water. In metric units, this distance is 28.2 kilometers.

East side of Oshima straight
East side of Oshima straight

This width defines the space between the two main islands. The strait acts as a bridge of water for the region. It connects the various islands that make up this part of Japan.

Transportation is a major function of this strait. Because the islands are separated by water, boats are necessary. There are five distinct ferry lines that operate through the strait. These ferries are very popular with the local people. They provide a reliable way to move between different locations. Without these lines, traveling between the islands would be much more difficult. The ferry system makes the strait a busy and useful maritime route.

Most of these ferry services share a common starting point. They all depart from the Setonami port. This port is located on the island of Amami Ōshima.

East side of Oshima straight
East side of Oshima straight

From this single hub, travelers can reach several different destinations. The Setonami port acts as a central point for the local ferry network. This organization allows for efficient movement across the water. It connects the main island to the surrounding island chain.

One specific ferry line connects Amami Ōshima to Kakeromajima. This route travels from the Setonami port to the Seso port. Another service travels to the Setouchi Town Ferry. A third line provides access to Ukejima island. This specific route ends at the Okeamuro port.

East side of Oshima straight
East side of Oshima straight

These routes show how the strait links different island communities. Each line serves a specific purpose for the people living there.

Beyond the immediate neighbors, the ferry lines reach even further. One ferry line travels to Tokunoshima island. This boat arrives at the Hetono port. The final ferry line listed in the records goes to Naze port.

East side of Oshima straight
East side of Oshima straight

These various endpoints demonstrate the reach of the Setonami port. The ferry network creates a web of connections across the sea. It links Amami Ōshima to a wide variety of other ports.

In summary, the Ōshima Strait is more than just a strip of water. It is a central part of the Amami Guntō National Park. The 17.5-mile span facilitates essential travel for the region. Through the five ferry lines, it connects Amami Ōshima to Kakeromajima and beyond. From Seso port to Hetono port, these routes are vital. The strait remains a key geographic and social link in Japan.

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File:East side of Oshima straight.jpg
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