The "sea women" of Japan's Shima Peninsula maintain an ancient tradition of diving for pearls, urchins and abalone, without the benefit of modern gear or protection. This challenges the traditional role of women in their society, as well as the very nature of femininity itself. Ama-San follows the everyday lives of three women of different ages who have dived together around a small fishing village for 30 years. Shot between the silent, underwater world and rural life on land, this breathtaking documentary is a unique portrait of a tradition that is not expected to survive much longer.

Presented in partnership with The Japan Foundation, Toronto.

Japan Through the Lens: From cocktails to design to queer activism, explore the many layers of the unique country of Japan through five fresh finds rarely screened in North America.

Streaming until November 25 exclusively to Hot Docs Members. Join now to watch for free: bit.ly/2Y6yN75