7 Best Spots for Scuba Diving in Japan

Why You Should Go Scuba Diving in Japan

As an island nation, the waters surrounding Japan have supported life in the country since ancient times, from passionate and dedicated fishermen to graceful ama divers. Scuba diving in Japan offers a unique opportunity to explore a different side of this fascinating nation. While Japan is often associated with its rich cultural heritage, bustling cities, and technological advancements, its underwater world is equally captivating. Though scuba diving might not be the first activity that comes to mind when thinking about Japan, the country’s diverse marine landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and exotic sea life make it a gem for diving enthusiasts.

Best Places for Scuba Diving in Japan

1. Blue Cave (Okinawa)

Let’s start the list with one MVP of scuba diving in Japan: the Blue Cave, located in Okinawa, Onna Village. It’s difficult to reduce the beauty of Blue Cave to just one factor, but one thing that makes the spot so attractive is the mysterious blue hue that appears in the water due to the entering and reflection of sun rays. Within the cave, you can encounter a variety of fascinating marine creatures. You might come across blotcheye soldierfish, sweepers, longfin batfish, and other rare species. Outside the cave, the surrounding waters are home to vibrant and friendly tropical fishes.

This tour offers you the chance to explore Blue Cave in Okinawa with a professional instructor guiding you step by step. You will have everything you need, including all the necessary equipment, photos and videos of your experience, the boat fee, and even food for feeding the fish.

2. Kerama Islands (Okinawa)

Explore the stunning Kerama Island chain, made up of around 20 different-sized islands, by diving into its crystal-clear blue waters. Among these islands, Tokashiki Island stands out as one of the largest and most well-known. What truly sets the Kerama Islands apart is the chance to encounter the famous turtles of Tokashiki, whose presence makes every visit memorable. These gentle creatures offer divers an unforgettable experience. Additionally, during the winter months, the waters around the Kerama Islands, particularly Zamami Island, become a prime spot for witnessing humpback whales!

This tour offers you everything you need, including rental equipment, transfer pickup service within Naha City, towels, and a veteran instructor who will be there to guide beginners and solve all your troubles. You will be able to enjoy the wide variety of marine life that appears around the islands depending on the season.

Please note that this plan is for licensed divers.

3. Minna and Sesoko Islands (Okinawa)

Sesoko Island, connected to Okinawa’s main island by a 762-meter bridge, offers excellent diving opportunities for all skill levels. The island’s caves have shallow, calm waters, making them ideal for a variety of skill levels. Sesoko's underwater landscape features a sloping hard coral reef that extends from 4 to 20 meters deep, with the labyrinth on the west coast, which is a favorite among seasoned divers. Meanwhile, Minna Island, a sacred spot less than half a square kilometer in size, boasts Minna Beach with calm waters and visibility up to 30 meters, perfect for diving. Popular dive sites around Minna include a coral-encrusted submarine cable and Kujira Iwa, a whale-shaped reef.

This tour offers two boat dives around Minna and Sesoko Islands, with full rental gear included. Explore Minna’s vibrant coral reefs and Sesoko’s tunnels and caverns, encountering diverse marine life. After diving, enjoy a Wagyu beef barbecue lunch at a café with an ocean view. Private transportation, beverages, snacks, and underwater photos/videos are also provided.

4. Izu Peninsula (Shizuoka)

Located about 100 kilometers southwest of Tokyo, the Izu Peninsula is a resort area known for its hot springs and stunning coastlines. It’s a top destination for scuba diving, offering diverse marine life and breathtaking spots like Osezaki, with depths reaching up to 60 meters; Izu Ocean Park, one of the most popular dive sites in the area; Atami, famous for shipwreck diving, and Miyake Island, where you can enjoy the unique experience of diving with wild dolphins.

Tour for Certified Divers

This tour invites you to dive at the famous Izu Oceanic Park, with an experienced guide leading the way. The tour includes some gear (two tanks, weights, and a belt), and the difficulty of the dive can be adjusted depending on your skill level. A box lunch will also be provided.

Tour for Non-Divers

If you don’t have a diving license, don’t worry. This tour provides all the necessary equipment for diving, and a veteran instructor will guide you every step of the way.

5. Yonaguni Island (Okinawa)

Yonaguni Island, Japan's westernmost inhabited island, is a paradise for divers and adventurers alike. Spanning about 30 square kilometers and home to a small population of fewer than 2,000 residents, the island offers a peaceful atmosphere perfect for relaxation and connecting with nature. Visit between November and April, and you might encounter hammerhead sharks! The island's renowned diving spots, including Muran, Sabahi, the Underwater Ruins, and Irizaki, attract divers from around the globe. The Underwater Ruins to the south of the island feature massive stone formations and structures that inspire numerous hypotheses about their origin—an ideal place to meditate on the mysteries of nature.

6. Yoron Island (Kagoshima)

The subtropical island of Yoron, located at the southernmost tip of Kagoshima, is a haven for scuba diving enthusiasts, being full of sea turtles and colorful tropical fish. There are options for divers of all levels, but advanced divers have the unique opportunity to explore the Chinsen Amami wreck, which lies at a depth of 34-35 meters, though it can be seen from 20 meters. Other notable diving spots on Yoron Island include Denpoguchi, famous for its intricate crevasses, and Shinaha, a beach known for its vibrant coral.

7. Chichijima Island (Tokyo)

Chichijima Island is the largest of the Ogasawara Islands, a chain located about 1,000 kilometers south of Tokyo. Despite its remote location, Chichijima falls under Tokyo’s administration. The island is renowned for its spectacular whale and dolphin-watching opportunities. Humpback whales inhabit the waters from February to March, while sperm whales are often spotted from May to September. For those interested in dolphins, summer is the best time to see both bottlenose and spinner Dolphins.

Explore Japan’s Mesmerizing Underwater World

Japan might not be immediately recognized for its lively waters, but hopefully, this article has helped you realize that Japan is also a world-class destination for scuba diving. So, if you're planning your next diving adventure, don't overlook the majestic experiences that Japan's seas have to offer!