Tokunoshima history

Foundation and First Mentions

The history of settlement on Tokunoshima is rooted in the prehistoric era: archaeological finds confirm the presence of people on the island as far back as the Jomon and Yayoi periods. As a significant regional entity, this territory first began to appear in historical chronicles in the context of the Ryukyu Kingdom's expansion in the 15th century. For a long time, settlements here developed as part of the unified cultural arc of the Amami Islands.

Key Factors of Formation

The formation of Tokunoshima as an important settlement was defined by several strategic factors:

• Geographical Location: The island is situated on the sea route between Kyushu and Okinawa, which historically made it a vital transit and trade hub.
• Political Influence: The transition under the control of the Satsuma clan in the early 17th century (after 1609) radically changed the way of life, introducing new administrative orders.
• Agriculture: Fertile soil of volcanic origin allowed for the development of the agrarian sector, which became the foundation of the economy.

Early Cultural and Economic Features

For centuries, the region's economy was built around the cultivation of sugar cane. Under Satsuma management, sugar production became the dominant industry, known as the "sugar economy," which, despite being burdensome for the peasantry, shaped the island's economic character.

Tokunoshima's cultural identity was formed from a unique interweaving of Ryukyu traditions and mainland Japan. The most striking example of early cultural heritage is togyu — traditional bullfighting. This spectacle emerged as a leisure activity for farmers and eventually evolved into the island's main symbol, retaining its popularity to this day.

Major Milestones in Tokunoshima's History

• 15th Century — The island falls within the sphere of influence of the Ryukyu Kingdom, facilitating the introduction of unique southern cultural and trade traditions.
• 1609 — Following the invasion by the Shimazu clan, Tokunoshima comes under the direct control of the Satsuma Domain, altering the administrative structure.
• 1830s — A period of intensive development of sugar cane production, which becomes the main monoculture and the basis for taxation.
• 1862 — The famous samurai and figure of the Meiji era, Saigo Takamori, spends over two months in exile on the island.
• 1871 — During the Meiji Restoration and the abolition of the han system, the island officially becomes part of Kagoshima Prefecture.
• 1946 — The island is separated from Japan and placed under temporary administrative control of the USA along with the rest of the Amami Islands group.
• 25 December 1953 — Tokunoshima returns to Japanese sovereignty, becoming a paramount holiday for local residents.
• 1962 — The opening of Tokunoshima Airport ensures regular air connections with major cities and opens the way for tourists.
• 2017 — The island's territory becomes part of the newly formed Amami Gunto National Park.
• 2021 — Tokunoshima is included in the UNESCO World Natural Heritage list as a habitat for rare and endangered animal species.

Key Stages of Tokunoshima's Development

The development of Tokunoshima is an evolution from a closed agrarian periphery to a recognised centre of world natural heritage. The modern appearance of the island was shaped not just by dates, but by global shifts in the economy and the mindset of its residents.

• The "Sugar Island" Era. The introduction of the sugar cane monoculture by the Satsuma clan in the 17th century became the economic foundation of the region. This decision forever changed the landscape: plains and slopes turned into boundless plantations, defining the employment of the population and the specific nature of the local scenery for centuries to come.
• Period of Trials and Social Consolidation. The time of US administrative management (1946–1953) became a test of strength for the islanders. The movement for the return to Japanese sovereignty rallied the locals, strengthened self-governance, and helped preserve their unique cultural identity in the face of external changes.
• Integration with the Outside World. The mid-20th century was marked by an exit from isolation. A large-scale state modernisation programme combined the construction of concrete roads, ports, and the launch of the airport. The appearance of reliable sea and air transport radically reduced travel time to the mainland, turning the island from a remote point on the map into an accessible destination for logistics and early travellers.
• Technological Revolution in Agriculture. The implementation of major irrigation projects and dam construction in the second half of the 20th century solved the age-old problem of water scarcity. This allowed agriculture to transform from a risky endeavour dependent on weather whims into a stable and high-tech industry.
• Institutionalisation of Traditions. An important step in preserving culture was the construction of a specialised covered arena — the "Tokunoshima Dome". This facility elevated traditional togyu bullfighting to a new level: from a spontaneous farm entertainment, it turned into an organised all-weather spectacle attracting thousands of guests.
• Ecological Shift and Global Recognition. In the 21st century, the vector of development shifted from intensive land use to protection. The inclusion of the island's forests in the UNESCO World Natural Heritage list cemented Tokunoshima's status as a unique bio-reserve, making eco-tourism and the preservation of rare species the new economic and ideological basis of regional life.

Architectural Appearance and Development Features

The architecture of Tokunoshima differs radically from mainland Japan. There are no pronounced European styles like Gothic or Baroque here. The island's appearance was formed under the influence of a harsh subtropical climate, frequent typhoons, and the cultural heritage of the Ryukyu Kingdom. Urban planning is decentralised, focusing around three main towns: Tokunoshima (Kametsu), Isen, and Amagi.

Historical Eras and Architectural Styles

Development can be broadly divided into two key stages: the traditional way of life oriented towards natural materials, and modern functionalism dictated by safety.

• Traditional Vernacular Architecture (until the mid-20th century).

  Characterised by the use of wood, straw, and coral limestone. Houses were built low to withstand winds and were often surrounded by stone walls.

  • Style: Vernacular architecture of the Amami Islands.
  • Key Element: Takakura — granaries on stilts with a steep thatched roof. This design protected the harvest from humidity and rodents. Although residential houses were rebuilt, takakura were preserved as symbols of prosperity.
  • Features: Use of ishigaki (stone masonry) walls made of coral to protect courtyards from sea winds.
• The Era of Concrete and Functionalism (from the 1960s).

  After the island's return to Japan and a series of destructive typhoons, mass reconstruction began. Wooden structures gave way to reinforced concrete.

  • Style: Utilitarian Modernism / Brutalism.
  • Characteristics: Flat roofs (often used as water reservoirs or terraces), massive concrete boxes, windows with protective shutters. Aesthetics gave way to durability and the ability to withstand storms.

Iconic Structures and Districts

There are no historic palaces on the island; however, certain objects stand out, reflecting the culture and modern development of the region:

• Kametsu District: The administrative and commercial centre of the island. It features dense development of low-rise concrete buildings, narrow streets, and port infrastructure. The transition to modern urbanisation is most visible here.
• Tokunoshima Nakuzu Dome: The most recognisable modern building. This is a covered arena for bullfighting with a characteristic dome-shaped roof. The structure is an example of modern engineering thought adapted for the ancient tradition of togyu.
• Cape Inutabu Park: Located here is a memorial to the battleship "Yamato" in the form of a tower, executed in a strict monumental style that contrasts with the wild nature of the coast.

Historical Figures and Legends

• Saigo Takamori (1828–1877)
  Samurai, Statesman
  One of the "three great nobles" of the Meiji Restoration and arguably the most famous samurai in Japanese history. In 1862, he was exiled by the Shogunate to Tokunoshima. Despite the brevity of his stay (about 70 days), he left a deep mark on the memory of the islanders, teaching local residents and laying the foundations for education. Places of his residence and monuments have been preserved on the island, and his descendants still live here today.
• Izumi Shigechiyo (1865?–1986)
  Farmer, Supercentenarian
  A symbol of the phenomenal health of the islanders. For a long time, he held the title of the oldest man in the world according to the Guinness Book of World Records (officially recognised age at death was 120 years, though this was later debated). Izumi brought fame to Tokunoshima as the "island of longevity," attracting attention from scientists and tourists worldwide. A bronze monument is dedicated to him in the town of Isen.

Modern Figures and Athletes

• Tokuda Torao (1938–2024)
  Doctor, Politician, Philanthropist
  A native of Tokunoshima who became one of the most influential figures in 20th-century Japanese medicine. Founder of the Tokushukai Medical Corporation — the largest network of private hospitals in Japan. Inspired by the shortage of doctors on his home island during his childhood, he dedicated his life to creating a system of round-the-clock medical care accessible to everyone, regardless of wealth.
• Asashio Taro III (1929–1988)
  Sumo Wrestler (46th Yokozuna)
  Real name — Yonegawa Fumitoshi. Born in the town of Tokunoshima (Kametsu). He became the first wrestler from the Amami Islands and Kagoshima Prefecture to reach the highest rank in professional sumo — Yokozuna. His sporting achievements in the 1950s became a source of immense pride for locals and strengthened the status of sumo as an important part of the island's culture.
• Kyokudozan Kazuyasu (born 1964)
  Sumo Wrestler, Politician, Singer
  A famous native of the island who rose to fame in the 1980s and 90s. In sumo, he earned the nickname "The Technician" for his skill despite his lighter weight. After retiring from sports, he successfully pursued careers in show business and politics, becoming a member of the House of Representatives of Japan, where he addressed issues of sports development and education.