Extension Services for Home Living Improvement in the Occupied Ryukyu Islands: A Case Study of the Amami Islands

Abstract

This study examines the implementation of extension services for home living improvement in the occupied Ryukyu Islands during the early period, with a focus on the Amami Islands. Although the policy of the Ryukyu project closely mirrored that of mainland Japan, it emphasized greatly on the realistic and economic aspects because of the region’s extreme poverty. On the Amami Islands, public halls and social education officers supported the formation of women’s associations and pertinent activities in each area. Home demonstration agents collaborated with public halls and agricultural extension workers to promote home living improvements, mainly targeting women’s associations. The main activities included eliminating unnecessary expenditure, promoting thrift and savings, setting up community stores, and improving kitchens and kamado (kitchen stoves).