Northern Area

Gamouzaki

Legend has it that a group of Heike (family name) samurai fled from their enemy, the Genji family, to Amami Oshima after suffering a major loss in the Battle of Dan-no-ura, which took place in present day Yamaguchi Prefecture. The samurai made bases to keep watch for any sign of the Genjis from both the right and left side entrances to Kasari Bay. Gamouzaki Shrine is dedicated to one of the Heike samurai by the name of Gamo Zaemon, who was posted on the right side overlooking Yanizaki bay. The observatory park has a magnificent view and the sunset from Gamozaki is especially remarkable.