noun
coastal area where human life and the sea coexist; protected undeveloped coastline near populated areas
A concept in Japanese environmental thought, referring to a coastal zone that is managed and used sustainably by local communities, maintaining biodiversity and productivity while being close to human habitation. Often contrasted with 里山 (satoyama) for terrestrial areas.
里海の保全活動に地域住民が参加している。
Local residents participate in conservation activities for the satoumi coastal area.
この湾は、豊かな里海として知られている。
This bay is known as a rich satoumi, where human life and the sea coexist.