The Best Diving Sites in Japan
For a relatively tiny island, Japan packs a mighty punch when it comes to the best diving spots in the world. It is the scattering of even smaller islands around the Japanese mainland that make the country such a worthwhile trip for divers; check our pick of the top 5 resorts:
Okinawa
As the only diving resort in Japan where you can explore in wetsuits all-year round, Okinawa is one of the country’s most popular diving locations. Whether you’re experiencing diving for the first time or an underwater veteran, the islands one-of-a-kind features are an absolute must-see. Explore World War II shipwrecks, underwater air domes, submerged ruins, fabulous caves, various turtles, sharks, rays, fishes, tropical reefs and so much more.
Side note about getting around Japan: You can purchase a cross-country rail pass or book your train ticket from the airport to the coast at http://www.japanrailpass.net/. It does it all for you and you’ll more than get your money’s worth.
Ogasawara
Due to being cut-off from man for hundreds of years, the Ogasawara Islands have created their own self-sufficient ecosystem protecting an abundance of plant and marine life. This is an extra-special treat for divers as the vast majority of the islands are untouched by human hand. One of the most popular sights is of the Sperm Whale - many tour operators offer boat trips so you can experience this graceful creature from above and below.
Izu Hanto
The peninsula of Izu is an absolute must-visit for aspiring and professional divers alike. It is the primary place to visit if you want to swim with the big boys including Hammerhead Sharks, Manta Rays, Dartfish, Snapping Shrimp and Lion Fish. If fish aren’t your thing, be sure to head to Futo where you will find the Chinsen shipwreck a mere 30m from the coastline.
Izu Shoto
Nestled within the Izu Shoto Islands you will find the divers paradise of Miyakejima Island which is also home to over 250 species of bird. During June and October, the island is awash with divers flocking to the Diving Festival where scuba lovers come together to explore the rich seas and swim amongst tropical fish, sea turtles and colourful corals.
Hokkaido
Not for the faint hearted, Hokkaido is home to the famous Japanese ice diving spots. For highly experienced divers, this is an ideal hangout for meeting like-minded enthusiasts but if you are a lesser experienced in the subject of ice diving then a weekend course is available to quality you for Ice Diver SP status.
How to get there
The most popular ways of travelling to Japan are by train and plane. Airliners such as All Nippon Airways (ANA) provide flights to Japan from London, Paris, Frankfurt and Munich in Europe and New York, Washington, San Jose, Chicago, Seattle, San Francisco and Los Angeles in America.
