In Japan's Mie Prefecture, a unique community of women known as ama has been free-diving for over 3,000 years to collect seafood such as abalone, sea urchins, and shellfish. Unlike modern scuba divers, ama rely solely on their lung capacity, diving repeatedly into cold waters. Traditionally, they wore white outfits, but many now opt for wetsuits while still incorporating protective symbols. Historically, ama were instrumental in Japan's pearl industry, aiding in the creation of the world’s first cultured pearl farms. However, their numbers have drastically declined from approximately 9,100 in 1978 to only about 2,000 today, as younger generations are drawn to other professions. Despite this, ama are recognized for their sustainable harvesting practices, which include limiting dive times and adhering to seasonal rules, thereby protecting marine ecosystems. After diving, they gather in huts called ama goya, where they warm up, share meals, and pass on their knowledge, ensuring the survival of their culture amidst modern challenges.