Diving in Eastern China Sea
Quick Facts
- • Entry types: Mostly shore entries
- • Expect: Varies by conditions visibility
- • Highlights: Discover Eastern China Sea's dive spots
Explore the underwater wonders of Eastern China Sea, sea. This region features 100 documented dive spots, each offering unique underwater experiences. Whether you're seeking calm snorkeling bays, challenging freediving depths, or exciting scuba adventures, Eastern China Sea has something for every underwater explorer. Browse detailed spot information, check current conditions from recent dive logs, and connect with the local diving community to make the most of your visit.
Regional Context
🏛️ Marine Hierarchy
🌍 Associated Countries
Countries in Eastern China Sea (3)
Sub-regions in Eastern China Sea (3)
Popular Spots in Eastern China Sea (100+ spots)
1 Gochi Ohanabatake
1 Gochi Ohanabatake is located within the National Park Marine Protected Area, specifically known as the 'Flower Garden site #1'. This dive site is primarily accessed from the shore and features depths ranging from 5 meters to 12 meters. While it is generally safe to dive in this shallow range, divers should be cautious of the often strong currents, which can make conditions challenging. The site is suitable for drift diving, but it is advisable to choose times when the sea conditions are favorable. Marine life commonly observed here includes snappers, groupers, scorpionfish, and schools of yellowtail snapper. Additionally, divers may encounter scampi, yellowtail, turtles, and occasionally sharks and rays. Unique species such as longnose hawkfish and frogfish can also be spotted among the diverse marine ecosystem.
A Point
A Point is known for its seasonal congregation of hammerhead sharks, particularly from summer to fall. Divers can observe these sharks as they swim in schools, often circling around submerged roots or resting on rocky surfaces. This site is recognized as a significant habitat for various shark species, making it an important location for marine biodiversity. The entry to the dive site is from the shore, providing easy access for divers.
Adan Shita
Adan Shita is located off the uninhabited Akenashiki Island in the Keramas, accessible via a 10-minute boat ride from Aka Island. The dive site features depths ranging from 7 to 20 meters and is characterized by mild currents, making it suitable for both novice divers and training sessions. Marine life includes clownfish, spiny dogfish, goatfish, and various nudibranchs such as Adeyakami and Fujinami. The underwater landscape is adorned with coral gardens, providing a rich habitat for diverse marine species.
Adan Shita
Adan Shita is located off the uninhabited Akenashiki Island in the Keramas, accessible via a 10-minute boat ride from Aka Island. The dive site features depths ranging from 7 to 20 meters and is characterized by mild currents, making it suitable for both novice divers and training sessions. Marine life includes clownfish, spiny dogfish, goatfish, and various nudibranchs such as Adeyakami and Fujinami. The underwater landscape is adorned with coral gardens, providing a rich habitat for diverse marine species.
Agariushi
Agariushi, located south of Zamami Island, is characterized by its diverse marine life, including multiple species of clownfish and schools of snappers. The site features colonies of fire coral and is known for its rich diversity of anemonefish, with nearly all Japanese species present except for the red clownfish. The entry to this dive site is from the shore, making it accessible for divers looking to explore its underwater ecosystem.
Agariushi
Agariushi, located south of Zamami Island, is characterized by its diverse marine life, including multiple species of clownfish and schools of snappers. The site features colonies of fire coral and is known for its rich diversity of anemonefish, with nearly all Japanese species present except for the red clownfish. The entry to this dive site is from the shore, making it accessible for divers looking to explore its underwater ecosystem.
Ago Island
Ago Island, located in Onagawa, is a dive site suitable for beginners, featuring depths of 11 to 12 meters. The area is characterized by rugged reefs and narrow waterways, providing a unique underwater landscape. It is home to a variety of marine life, including pink dungfish, beaked sculpin, and true booyahs, which are present throughout the year. Additionally, the site experiences strong tidal currents that attract seasonal migratory fish, enhancing the biodiversity of the area.
Ago Island
Ago Island, located in Onagawa, is a dive site suitable for beginners, featuring depths of 11 to 12 meters. The area is characterized by rugged reefs and narrow waterways, providing a unique underwater landscape. It is home to a variety of marine life, including pink dungfish, beaked sculpin, and true booyahs, which are present throughout the year. Additionally, the site experiences strong tidal currents that attract seasonal migratory fish, enhancing the biodiversity of the area.
Aguni Fudensaki
Aguni Fudensaki is situated on Aguni Island, approximately 60 km northwest of Naha City, accessible by a 2-hour and 10-minute ferry ride. This dive site is renowned for its diverse marine life, including bigeye trevally, bluefin tuna, bluefin trevally, and schools of barracudas. Divers may also encounter larger species such as Napoleon and grey reef sharks. The underwater environment is enriched with unique creatures like giant frogfish, kudagombe, southern pufferfish, and clownfish, making it a vibrant spot for marine observation. The entry to the dive site is from the shore, providing easy access for divers.
Aguni Fudensaki
Aguni Fudensaki is situated on Aguni Island, approximately 60 km northwest of Naha City, accessible by a 2-hour and 10-minute ferry ride. This dive site is renowned for its diverse marine life, including bigeye trevally, bluefin tuna, bluefin trevally, and schools of barracudas. Divers may also encounter larger species such as Napoleon and grey reef sharks. The underwater environment is enriched with unique creatures like giant frogfish, kudagombe, southern pufferfish, and clownfish, making it a vibrant spot for marine observation. The entry to the dive site is from the shore, providing easy access for divers.
Akahae
Akahae is a dive site featuring clusters of soft and hard corals at a depth of around 20 meters. Divers may observe frogfish hiding in crevices, alongside schools of migratory fish. The site is home to a variety of marine species, including snappers, groupers, scorpionfish, yellowtail, turtles, and occasional sightings of sharks, rays, and flatfish. The presence of strong currents necessitates careful assessment of diving conditions. Although previous typhoons have impacted the hard corals, signs of recovery have been noted as of 2023, enhancing the site's appeal for divers.
Akehama
Akehama is situated in the western region of Ehime Prefecture, characterized by a rias-style coastline and a sandy beach approximately 300 meters long. The site offers a diverse range of marine life, including macro species and larger migratory fish. Notable residents include dwarf damselfish, various nudibranchs such as blue, yellow, hero, and Fujii nudibranchs, along with tropical species like chubby damselfish, anchovy damselfish, pepperhead damselfish, minnow scorpionfish, and grouper YG. During the summer months, divers may also witness the spawning behavior of green squid.
Aki no Hama
Aki no Hama is located on the largest of the Izu Islands, which is closest to the mainland. The island features Mihara, an active volcano at its center. While boat diving is an option, the site is primarily accessed via shore entry, with Autumn Beach being the most frequented access point. The underwater environment is rich in biodiversity, showcasing a variety of macro life including symbiotic gobies in sandy regions and nudibranchs among the rocky areas. During the summer months, divers may encounter white tip sharks, adding to the site's appeal for marine life observation.
Akiu Great Falls
Akiu Great Falls is located approximately one hour from Sendai and features a unique diving experience in the basin of Akiu Ootaki, one of Japan's three largest waterfalls, with a vertical drop of 55 meters. Divers can experience the sensation of water vibrations throughout their body while exploring this freshwater environment. Marine life in this area is limited, but divers may encounter freshwater species such as char, rockfish, trout, white-tailed bream, and occasionally cherry salmon. Additionally, frogs and other terrestrial animals may be observed near the water's edge.
Akiu Great Falls
Akiu Great Falls is located approximately one hour from Sendai and features a unique diving experience in the basin of Akiu Ootaki, one of Japan's three largest waterfalls, with a vertical drop of 55 meters. Divers can experience the sensation of water vibrations throughout their body while exploring this freshwater environment. Marine life in this area is limited, but divers may encounter freshwater species such as char, rockfish, trout, white-tailed bream, and occasionally cherry salmon. Additionally, frogs and other terrestrial animals may be observed near the water's edge.
Ama Beach
Ama Beach, located on the west side of Zamami Island, features a shallow sandy bottom with calm waters, making it suitable for beginners and families. The site is ideal for snorkeling and scuba diving, with a notable presence of green turtles. The surrounding coral reefs host a variety of tropical fish, including bigeye and lurid sparrowhawks, as well as blue-spotted trevally. The tranquil conditions and diverse marine life contribute to a pleasant diving experience.
Ando no Hana
Ando no Hana features two buoys, one located in shallow waters and the other in deeper areas. The deep buoy is anchored in a sandy and muddy substrate, with depths exceeding 20 meters and a maximum depth of approximately 27 meters. Divers should maintain neutral buoyancy to avoid disturbing the sand. The site is accessible for diving from October onwards. Marine life includes various goby species, such as the threadfin goby and the threadfin lily goby, as well as frogfish that can be seen moving along the sandy bottom. To the west, a cleaning station is home to a colony of blue-spotted groupers. Other species observed in the area include western flying fish and razor fish. During winter months, schools of snappers can be spotted in the shallower regions.
Antonio Gaudi
Antonio Gaudi is situated on the western side of Shimoji Island, adjacent to Irabu Island, approximately 5 km from Miyako Island. The site is characterized by numerous intricate arches formed by natural processes, resembling the architectural style of Antoni Gaudí. Divers can encounter a variety of marine life, including dark-loving species such as the pine crested sauna and hawksbill turtles. Other notable sightings include Japanese pygmy seahorses, violet sea otters, blue-and-white groupers, blue-and-white snappers, and occasionally, stingrays, manta rays, Napoleon fish, and green sea turtles. The entry to the site is from the shore.
Antonio Gaudi
Antonio Gaudi is situated on the western side of Shimoji Island, adjacent to Irabu Island, approximately 5 km from Miyako Island. The site is characterized by numerous intricate arches formed by natural processes, resembling the architectural style of Antoni Gaudí. Divers can encounter a variety of marine life, including dark-loving species such as the pine crested sauna and hawksbill turtles. Other notable sightings include Japanese pygmy seahorses, violet sea otters, blue-and-white groupers, blue-and-white snappers, and occasionally, stingrays, manta rays, Napoleon fish, and green sea turtles. The entry to the site is from the shore.
Aosango
Aosango is recognized for its significant Blue Coral, which spans an area approximately twice the size of a tennis court. The dive site features a variety of hard corals and offers depths ranging from 5 to 12 meters. Visibility at this location typically exceeds 30 meters, providing excellent conditions for divers. Marine life encounters include Hawksbill Turtles, Banded Sea Snakes, and schools of Yellowfin Goatfish and Striped Large-eye Bream, making it a notable spot on the East coast of Okinawa's main island.
Arari
Arari is a shore dive site characterized by its dynamic underwater landscape, featuring notable formations such as the West Root and the Horse Mackerel Root. Located just 5 minutes from the harbor, it is accessible for divers who prefer not to use a boat. The site is particularly known for its stingray population, with encounters peaking during early summer, where divers may see multiple stingrays at once. As autumn approaches, visibility tends to improve, revealing a fascinating array of marine life, including kampachi and sunfish. Divers can also observe large schools of snappers that remain motionless in the offshore roots, creating a unique diving experience. The site offers excellent opportunities for both macro and wide-angle photography, with subjects ranging from seahorses to lionfish clinging to the walls, making each dive a chance for new discoveries.
Ariga Cable
Ariga Cable is situated on the western side of Tokashiki Island. Divers can observe the underwater cable along the seafloor. The area is known for sightings of green sea turtles, scorpionfish, and various species of cardinalfish. The shallow regions boast vibrant coral formations. The maximum depth at this site reaches approximately 25 meters, making it suitable for divers ranging from beginners to those with intermediate experience.
Ariga Cable
Ariga Cable is situated on the western side of Tokashiki Island. Divers can observe the underwater cable along the seafloor. The area is known for sightings of green sea turtles, scorpionfish, and various species of cardinalfish. The shallow regions boast vibrant coral formations. The maximum depth at this site reaches approximately 25 meters, making it suitable for divers ranging from beginners to those with intermediate experience.
Atami
Atami is a notable dive site located in Higashi-Izu, accessible from Tokyo in approximately two hours. This shore entry site features a unique underwater landscape characterized by roots and wrecks, which are home to a variety of colorful luminal enteropods. Divers can also discover soft corals that host numerous macro-organisms, enhancing the visual experience. The site is particularly popular among divers from the Kanto region, making it a viable option for day trips.
Atami Kosoga Cave
Atami Kosoga Cave, located in Shizuoka, features a semi-enclosed cave that extends 40 meters in length and is situated at depths ranging from 6 to 12 meters. The cave is accessible from November to April and is suitable for beginner divers due to its spacious interior and open ceiling, which allows sunlight to illuminate the area, creating a blue gradation effect. The site is home to schools of snappers, rockfish, and mackerel, which can be seen moving through the light. Additionally, the sandy areas nearby may conceal sharks and bullhead sharks. Entry to the site is via the shore, making it convenient for divers.
Atami Wreck
The Atami Wreck, known as the Asahi 16, is a gravel transport vessel that lies split in two beneath the surface. This shipwreck is situated in sandy surroundings, providing a unique habitat for various marine species. The bow area features a winch that attracts a variety of colorful fish, while the hull is adorned with soft corals that often shelter flounder. Divers can observe anemones, anthias, and red snapper near the bow. The site is accessible from the shore, with descent ropes available at both ends, enhancing the diving experience.
B&G Marine Center
B&G Marine Center, located in Amami City, Kagoshima, features a heated indoor pool suitable for swimming and training, but it is not a diving site. The center includes a 25-meter competition pool and a toddler pool, making it a popular choice for local residents and youth teams. For diving enthusiasts, it is recommended to explore other dive sites or specialized dive shops in the vicinity for marine life experiences.
Banjin Beach
Banjin Beach, located in Kashiwazaki, faces the Sea of Japan and provides calm diving conditions. The site features a maximum depth of 10 meters and allows for shore entry, making it accessible for divers of all experience levels. The underwater environment includes sandy and rocky areas, as well as seaweed forests, which are home to various marine life such as seahorses, nudibranchs, dungeness corals, jellyfish, and schools of horse mackerel. Seasonal variations in marine life are notable, with nudibranchs and seahorses present from spring to early summer, while summer to fall brings schools of horse mackerel and jellyfish.
Banjin Beach
Banjin Beach, located in Kashiwazaki, faces the Sea of Japan and provides calm diving conditions. The site features a maximum depth of 10 meters and allows for shore entry, making it accessible for divers of all experience levels. The underwater environment includes sandy and rocky areas, as well as seaweed forests, which are home to various marine life such as seahorses, nudibranchs, dungeness corals, jellyfish, and schools of horse mackerel. Seasonal variations in marine life are notable, with nudibranchs and seahorses present from spring to early summer, while summer to fall brings schools of horse mackerel and jellyfish.
Beach Bum
Beach Bum is an outdoor artificial pool located just 5 minutes from Keikyu Misakiguchi, providing a controlled environment ideal for diving and snorkeling training. The site is easily accessible from the shore, making it suitable for beginners and those practicing their skills. While there is no marine life present due to its artificial nature, divers can enjoy scenic views of the sea and Mt. Fuji, particularly during April sunsets when the sun aligns perfectly over the peak.
Benten Island
Benten Island, located near the town of Onagawa in Miyagi Prefecture, offers divers a unique experience where the Oyashio and Kuroshio currents converge. This site features a variety of marine life, including fixed nets, oysters, and sea squirt shelves. Divers can observe a wall of ascidians, which is a distinctive characteristic of this northern dive site. Throughout the year, sightings of dangler fish are common, and divers may witness their spawning behavior. Additionally, the area is home to various northern nudibranchs, dandelions, and anchidnails, making it an interesting site for marine biodiversity. The entry to the dive site is from the shore, providing easy access for divers.
Benten Island
Benten Island, located near the town of Onagawa in Miyagi Prefecture, offers divers a unique experience where the Oyashio and Kuroshio currents converge. This site features a variety of marine life, including fixed nets, oysters, and sea squirt shelves. Divers can observe a wall of ascidians, which is a distinctive characteristic of this northern dive site. Throughout the year, sightings of dangler fish are common, and divers may witness their spawning behavior. Additionally, the area is home to various northern nudibranchs, dandelions, and anchidnails, making it an interesting site for marine biodiversity. The entry to the dive site is from the shore, providing easy access for divers.
Bitagane
Bitagane is situated near the wreck at Atami and features fixed buoys marking depths between 18 to 20 meters. The western side, known as No.1 root, maintains a depth of approximately 20 meters, while the eastern side, or No.2 root, descends to around 30 meters. The site is characterized by strong currents that draw in a variety of fish species. Seasonal gatherings of anthias can be observed around the reef, and coral anemones at No.2 root provide habitat for clownfish and damselfish. Additionally, transient species are frequently spotted in this area.
Bizen
Bizen is located on the west side of Kushimoto and features a deep point reaching approximately 18 meters beneath the anchor. The site includes two prominent roots near the anchor and is characterized as a channel. The sandy areas on the west and south sides are notable, with the southern sandy region serving as a spawning ground for cuttlefish during certain seasons. To the north, divers can explore a series of coral reefs, leading to a sandy bottom that extends to depths of about 25 to 27 meters. The site typically experiences minimal current, making it accessible for divers of all skill levels. In the northern sandy area, gobies are frequently observed as water temperatures rise. The coral reefs host various marine life, including jawfish, frogfish, and razorfish. Additionally, during winter months, large schools of yellowtail can often be seen, while gimpfish are present year-round near the large roots.
Blue Cave
Blue Cave, located at Cape Maeda in Onna Village, Okinawa, is recognized for its distinctive blue illumination, which results from sunlight reflecting off the sandy bottom. The site features depths ranging from 5 to 7 meters, making it suitable for divers of all experience levels. The area is home to a variety of marine species, including sparrowhawks, butterflyfish, nudibranchs, crustaceans, jellyfish, and turtles, with activity peaking during the summer months. This site is accessible via shore entry, providing an easy access point for divers and snorkelers alike.
Bolo Point
Bolo Point is a dive site located off Cape Zampa, Okinawa, known for over 20 swim-throughs and a vertical wall with a cavern at the south end. Divers often encounter manta rays, giant trevallies, and Napoleon wrasses, as well as smaller species like angelfish, parrotfish, and lionfish. The site features hard coral and is home to octopus in crevices and rock ledges.
Bolo Point
Bolo Point is a dive site located off Cape Zampa, Okinawa, known for over 20 swim-throughs and a vertical wall with a cavern at the south end. Divers often encounter manta rays, giant trevallies, and Napoleon wrasses, as well as smaller species like angelfish, parrotfish, and lionfish. The site features hard coral and is home to octopus in crevices and rock ledges.
Bounotsu
Bounotsu is situated on the western side of the Satsuma Peninsula, facing the East China Sea. The site allows for diving at various times, depending on wind conditions. Visibility ranges from 10 to 30 meters. Water temperatures can vary significantly, with readings of 8.5 degrees Celsius in September and potentially reaching up to 30 degrees Celsius. Divers can experience a drift dive at the drop-off, where sightings of larger marine life are common, including blue snapper, sea turtles, bluefin tuna, humpback snappers, and stingrays. Additionally, large schools of humpback snappers, flathead damselfish, and sea anemones can be observed, along with occasional appearances of kuei and cod rays.
Bounotsu
Bounotsu is situated on the western side of the Satsuma Peninsula, facing the East China Sea. The site allows for diving at various times, depending on wind conditions. Visibility ranges from 10 to 30 meters. Water temperatures can vary significantly, with readings of 8.5 degrees Celsius in September and potentially reaching up to 30 degrees Celsius. Divers can experience a drift dive at the drop-off, where sightings of larger marine life are common, including blue snapper, sea turtles, bluefin tuna, humpback snappers, and stingrays. Additionally, large schools of humpback snappers, flathead damselfish, and sea anemones can be observed, along with occasional appearances of kuei and cod rays.
Budaine
Budaine is located near Kamikimoto Island, which is uninhabited and accessible via a 20-minute boat ride from the harbor. This dive site is known for the seasonal presence of hammerhead sharks, particularly from summer to autumn when the Kuroshio Current influences the area. Divers can also encounter sandbar sharks and blacktip sharks. The current can attract a variety of large pelagic species, including sunfish, sailfish, whale sharks, manta rays, and eagle rays, making it a notable location for marine life observation.
Buddha Coral
Buddha Coral is located off the coast of Amami Oshima, which is situated between Kagoshima and Okinawa. This dive site features a prominent coral formation resembling a giant Buddha, known as Daibutsu Coral, measuring approximately 20 meters in diameter and 7 meters in height. The dive site reaches a depth of around 16 meters and is characterized by sandy white substrates. Divers can observe a variety of marine life, including colorful flounder, butterflyfish, snappers, lionfish, scorpionfish, and spotted angelfish. In the sandy areas, garden eels and fine-tailed dingbats can also be found. The site is suitable for beginner divers due to its relatively shallow depth and gentle conditions. Entry to the site is from the shore.
Buddha Coral
Buddha Coral is located off the coast of Amami Oshima, which is situated between Kagoshima and Okinawa. This dive site features a prominent coral formation resembling a giant Buddha, known as Daibutsu Coral, measuring approximately 20 meters in diameter and 7 meters in height. The dive site reaches a depth of around 16 meters and is characterized by sandy white substrates. Divers can observe a variety of marine life, including colorful flounder, butterflyfish, snappers, lionfish, scorpionfish, and spotted angelfish. In the sandy areas, garden eels and fine-tailed dingbats can also be found. The site is suitable for beginner divers due to its relatively shallow depth and gentle conditions. Entry to the site is from the shore.
Bumb Tokyo Sports Culture Center
The Bumb Tokyo Sports Culture Center is situated in Yumenoshima, Koto-ku, Tokyo, and features a 25-meter indoor pool. This facility is designed for various swimming activities, promoting health and relaxation in a controlled environment. As an indoor site, it does not host any marine life, making it suitable for training and recreational swimming. The center is accessible via shore entry.
Butsu Butsu Sango
Butsu Butsu Sango, located near Kabi-jima in the Kerama Islands, is a boat dive site characterized by its calm conditions. The site features coral formations that resemble Buddha heads, with depths ranging from 3 to 20 meters. Divers can observe a variety of marine life, including Luris sparrowhawks, goatfish, yellowtail, and debassel snappers, as well as butterflyfish and bear clams. Occasional sightings of sea turtles can also be experienced over the vibrant coral reefs.
Butsu Butsu Sango
Butsu Butsu Sango, located near Kabi-jima in the Kerama Islands, is a boat dive site characterized by its calm conditions. The site features coral formations that resemble Buddha heads, with depths ranging from 3 to 20 meters. Divers can observe a variety of marine life, including Luris sparrowhawks, goatfish, yellowtail, and debassel snappers, as well as butterflyfish and bear clams. Occasional sightings of sea turtles can also be experienced over the vibrant coral reefs.
Candle Rock
Candle Rock features a diverse underwater environment characterized by numerous caves and crevices. These formations are home to a variety of marine life, including snails, octopuses, and small fish such as scorpionfish and flatfish. The area is rich in plant life, with seaweed and reef mollusks thriving in the nooks and crannies of the rocks. Divers can explore the intricate spaces among the stones, where they may also encounter sea stars. The site is accessible via shore entry, allowing for easy access to the underwater exploration.
Candle Rock
Candle Rock features a diverse underwater environment characterized by numerous caves and crevices. These formations are home to a variety of marine life, including snails, octopuses, and small fish such as scorpionfish and flatfish. The area is rich in plant life, with seaweed and reef mollusks thriving in the nooks and crannies of the rocks. Divers can explore the intricate spaces among the stones, where they may also encounter sea stars. The site is accessible via shore entry, allowing for easy access to the underwater exploration.
Canyon
Canyon is located on the eastern side of Tokashiki Island in the Kerama Islands, accessible via shore entry. This dive site features a unique crevice formation between two reefs, making it ideal for divers interested in geological structures. During the summer months, sunlight penetrates the crevice, enhancing the underwater visibility. Marine life commonly observed here includes green sea turtles, various species of damselfish, and lobsters. Other notable species include the sleepy shark, sea slugs, and several types of anemonefish. The area is also home to eels, pufferfish, lionfish, butterflyfish, and wrasses, providing a diverse diving experience.
Canyon
Canyon is located on the eastern side of Tokashiki Island in the Kerama Islands, accessible via shore entry. This dive site features a unique crevice formation between two reefs, making it ideal for divers interested in geological structures. During the summer months, sunlight penetrates the crevice, enhancing the underwater visibility. Marine life commonly observed here includes green sea turtles, various species of damselfish, and lobsters. Other notable species include the sleepy shark, sea slugs, and several types of anemonefish. The area is also home to eels, pufferfish, lionfish, butterflyfish, and wrasses, providing a diverse diving experience.
Cape Maeda
Cape Maeda, located in Onna Village, Okinawa, is known for its notable 'Blue Cave' where sunlight creates a distinctive blue illumination. The dive site features vertical holes and drop-offs, with depths reaching 30 to 40 meters. It is home to a variety of marine species, including schools of migratory fish, yasha gobies, hammerhead gobies, butterflyfish, wrasses, nudibranchs, sea turtles, and Napoleon fish. This site offers diverse experiences suitable for both novice and experienced divers.
Cape Maeda
Cape Maeda, located in Onna Village, Okinawa, is known for its notable 'Blue Cave' where sunlight creates a distinctive blue illumination. The dive site features vertical holes and drop-offs, with depths reaching 30 to 40 meters. It is home to a variety of marine species, including schools of migratory fish, yasha gobies, hammerhead gobies, butterflyfish, wrasses, nudibranchs, sea turtles, and Napoleon fish. This site offers diverse experiences suitable for both novice and experienced divers.
Cape No.6
Cape No.6, located on the east side of Zamami Island, features depths reaching 25 meters and is characterized by clear Kerama blue waters. The site is suitable for divers of all experience levels and is abundant in marine life, including clownfish, snappers, sawfish, moray eels, and both green and loggerhead turtles. Additionally, divers can observe macro species such as nudibranchs and pygmy seahorses, along with extensive coral colonies, sea fans, and isobana formations, making it ideal for both macro and wide-angle photography.
Cape No.6
Cape No.6, located on the east side of Zamami Island, features depths reaching 25 meters and is characterized by clear Kerama blue waters. The site is suitable for divers of all experience levels and is abundant in marine life, including clownfish, snappers, sawfish, moray eels, and both green and loggerhead turtles. Additionally, divers can observe macro species such as nudibranchs and pygmy seahorses, along with extensive coral colonies, sea fans, and isobana formations, making it ideal for both macro and wide-angle photography.
Cape No.7
Cape No.7, located at coordinates 26.239300, 127.332200, is a shore entry dive site known for its diverse marine life. The site features depths reaching up to 40 meters and is home to green and hawksbill turtles, as well as various species of sharks, mollusks, and crustaceans. Divers can also encounter spiny dogfish and wrasse among the vibrant corals. The area is suitable for both beginners and advanced divers, offering a rich underwater experience with seasonal nudibranchs and unique coral formations.
Cappadocia
Cappadocia is a shore dive site characterized by coral formations resembling the UNESCO World Heritage site in Turkey. The dive area is situated on the outer reef of Miruchibishi, with depths ranging from 10 meters at the shallowest point to 30 meters deeper. Visibility is generally good, ranging between 20 to 40 meters. Marine life includes green turtles, banded sea snakes, and whitetip reef sharks. Notably, cuttlefish are observed mating and laying eggs from March to May.
Capybara
Capybara dive site features a notable drop-off with a depth reaching approximately 35 meters. The area is characterized by rocky formations that slope gently, providing divers with opportunities to explore various archways, tunnels, and crevices. During safety stops at shallower depths, divers often encounter hawksbill turtles. The site is also home to a variety of marine life, including Taima fish, Napoleon fish, Bigeye Jacks, Giant Trevally, Bullhead Rays, Loggerhead Turtles, and Green Turtles. The vibrant coral and schools of snappers, particularly red snappers, contribute to the rich biodiversity of the underwater ecosystem.
Capybara
Capybara dive site features a notable drop-off with a depth reaching approximately 35 meters. The area is characterized by rocky formations that slope gently, providing divers with opportunities to explore various archways, tunnels, and crevices. During safety stops at shallower depths, divers often encounter hawksbill turtles. The site is also home to a variety of marine life, including Taima fish, Napoleon fish, Bigeye Jacks, Giant Trevally, Bullhead Rays, Loggerhead Turtles, and Green Turtles. The vibrant coral and schools of snappers, particularly red snappers, contribute to the rich biodiversity of the underwater ecosystem.
Chishi
Chishi is located on the northern side of Zamami Island in the Kerama Islands, approximately one hour by boat from Naha. This dive site is particularly popular during the summer months when the winds are from the south. It features a series of crevices within the reef, making it an ideal spot for divers interested in underwater topography. The site is known for its clear coral formations and is also frequented by skin divers. The crevices are one-way, which can lead to increased traffic during peak times, but it remains one of the top summer dive locations in the Kerama Islands. Marine life includes green sea turtles, golden damselfish, sleepy cod, sea slugs, and various species of clownfish, as well as moray eels, pufferfish, lionfish, butterflyfish, and lobsters.
Chishi
Chishi is located on the northern side of Zamami Island in the Kerama Islands, approximately one hour by boat from Naha. This dive site is particularly popular during the summer months when the winds are from the south. It features a series of crevices within the reef, making it an ideal spot for divers interested in underwater topography. The site is known for its clear coral formations and is also frequented by skin divers. The crevices are one-way, which can lead to increased traffic during peak times, but it remains one of the top summer dive locations in the Kerama Islands. Marine life includes green sea turtles, golden damselfish, sleepy cod, sea slugs, and various species of clownfish, as well as moray eels, pufferfish, lionfish, butterflyfish, and lobsters.
Chishima
Chishima is located approximately 10 minutes by boat from Kamiko Port. This uninhabited island features a drop-off that ranges from 5 meters to over 40 meters, making it a notable dive site. Divers can expect to encounter schools of Spanish mackerel, yellowtail, kanpachi, and horse mackerel. The site is also home to scorpionfish, snappers, and bluefin reef squid. While the underwater scenery is dynamic, diving conditions are best in the summer months, as winter can present challenges.
Chishima
Chishima is located approximately 10 minutes by boat from Kamiko Port. This uninhabited island features a drop-off that ranges from 5 meters to over 40 meters, making it a notable dive site. Divers can expect to encounter schools of Spanish mackerel, yellowtail, kanpachi, and horse mackerel. The site is also home to scorpionfish, snappers, and bluefin reef squid. While the underwater scenery is dynamic, diving conditions are best in the summer months, as winter can present challenges.
Chū hana No.2
Chū hana No.2 is located in Kuki, Owase City, Mie, along the Sea of Kumano. This dive site reaches depths of up to 32 meters and is known for its diverse marine life. Divers can encounter schools of cherry snappers, various nudibranchs, and occasionally green turtles. The site also features larger species such as giant groupers and catsharks. The warm winters in this area are influenced by the Kuroshio Current, making it a favorable diving location.
Coral 1
Coral 1 is located at the southern tip of Ukihara Island, just past the break. This site features a coral-rich environment with several swim-throughs. The average depth ranges from 10 to 20 meters, with some areas exceeding 30 meters, accommodating divers of various skill levels. Large marine life can frequently be observed along the reef wall and its extensions, particularly just outside the Uruma Barrier Reef.
Coral Garden Amami Oshima
Coral Garden, located in Amami Oshima, Kagoshima, showcases diverse coral formations, including Palau coral, at depths ranging from 8 to 10 meters. The site experiences minimal current, making it suitable for divers of all experience levels. It is accessible throughout the year, with a boat ride of approximately 10 minutes from the nearest launch point. The marine life here includes a variety of colorful fish, red snappers, turtles, rays, and crustaceans such as frigate shrimp, making it an excellent location for macro diving.
Coral Garden Amami Oshima
Coral Garden, located in Amami Oshima, Kagoshima, showcases diverse coral formations, including Palau coral, at depths ranging from 8 to 10 meters. The site experiences minimal current, making it suitable for divers of all experience levels. It is accessible throughout the year, with a boat ride of approximately 10 minutes from the nearest launch point. The marine life here includes a variety of colorful fish, red snappers, turtles, rays, and crustaceans such as frigate shrimp, making it an excellent location for macro diving.
Cross Hole
Cross Hole, located on Irabu Island in Okinawa, features a cave system with depths ranging from 5 to 27 meters. The site is characterized by a cross-shaped opening in the ceiling that allows light to filter in, enhancing the underwater experience. It includes both vertical and horizontal passages, making it accessible for beginner divers while still providing impressive topographical features and light effects. Marine life observed here includes bluefin tarpon, longnose hawkfish, red clownfish, turtles, gurukuns, and various macro species such as myaqueous lobsters and lance fish.
Cross Hole
Cross Hole, located on Irabu Island in Okinawa, features a cave system with depths ranging from 5 to 27 meters. The site is characterized by a cross-shaped opening in the ceiling that allows light to filter in, enhancing the underwater experience. It includes both vertical and horizontal passages, making it accessible for beginner divers while still providing impressive topographical features and light effects. Marine life observed here includes bluefin tarpon, longnose hawkfish, red clownfish, turtles, gurukuns, and various macro species such as myaqueous lobsters and lance fish.
Cross Line
Cross Line is a dive site characterized by a combination of coral reef and sandy bottom. The name derives from a submerged fishing line that crossed the area, which was lost during a typhoon. Divers can observe a variety of macro marine life along this line. Notable sightings include green sea turtles, often accompanied by remoras, and several colonies of clownfish. Other marine species that can be encountered here include pipefish, seahorses, and various types of wrasses and blennies.
Cross Line
Cross Line is a dive site characterized by a combination of coral reef and sandy bottom. The name derives from a submerged fishing line that crossed the area, which was lost during a typhoon. Divers can observe a variety of macro marine life along this line. Notable sightings include green sea turtles, often accompanied by remoras, and several colonies of clownfish. Other marine species that can be encountered here include pipefish, seahorses, and various types of wrasses and blennies.
Crystal Beach
Crystal Beach, also known as Yamahara Beach, is located in Kabira, Ishigaki. This site is characterized by its natural crystal deposits originating from the river of Mt. Omotodake. The waters here are clear and host a variety of marine life, including coral reefs, clownfish, and sea turtles. Access to the beach is via a steep slope, and divers should be aware that facilities are limited, necessitating careful preparation and caution before diving.
Crystal Park
Crystal Park, located on Shimoji Island in Okinawa, features a maximum depth of 10 meters. The site is characterized by coral heads distributed over a bed of fine white sand. Divers can expect to encounter clear blue waters, making it suitable for leisurely dives. Marine life includes schools of snappers, juvenile fish, clams, nudibranchs, slipper lobsters, gobies, and juvenile tench. The best time for diving here is from fall to spring.
Crystal Park
Crystal Park, located on Shimoji Island in Okinawa, features a maximum depth of 10 meters. The site is characterized by coral heads distributed over a bed of fine white sand. Divers can expect to encounter clear blue waters, making it suitable for leisurely dives. Marine life includes schools of snappers, juvenile fish, clams, nudibranchs, slipper lobsters, gobies, and juvenile tench. The best time for diving here is from fall to spring.
Daimaru
Daimaru is located approximately one hour by boat from Naha Port. This dive site features clear waters and a variety of colorful corals, along with crevices and swim-throughs that are home to diverse marine life. Divers may encounter species such as triggerfish, sea snakes, clownfish, turtles, and blue damsels, as well as both soft and hard corals.
Daimaru
Daimaru is located approximately one hour by boat from Naha Port. This dive site features clear waters and a variety of colorful corals, along with crevices and swim-throughs that are home to diverse marine life. Divers may encounter species such as triggerfish, sea snakes, clownfish, turtles, and blue damsels, as well as both soft and hard corals.
Devil'S Cove
Devil's Cove is a dive site in Okinawa featuring a sunken fishing boat and diverse marine life, including coral species, sea sponges, and various fish such as angelfish and cuttlefish. The maximum depth is 15 meters (50 feet), with average visibility of 12-15 meters (41-50 feet) and water temperatures ranging from 19-21°C (66-70°F). Entry is from the shore.
Devil'S Cove
Devil's Cove is a dive site in Okinawa featuring a sunken fishing boat and diverse marine life, including coral species, sea sponges, and various fish such as angelfish and cuttlefish. The maximum depth is 15 meters (50 feet), with average visibility of 12-15 meters (41-50 feet) and water temperatures ranging from 19-21°C (66-70°F). Entry is from the shore.
Dougashima
Dougashima, located in Nishi-Izu, Shizuoka, features diverse underwater landscapes and a variety of marine species. The site includes entry points from the Tenmado-do Cave and Saku-ne, with the presence of undersea hot springs. It is suitable for divers of all experience levels and showcases different marine life throughout the seasons. Notable species include snappers, yellowtails, amberjacks, nudibranchs, morays, red-spotted shrimp, and aobudai, along with seasonal sightings of sunfish. The site offers opportunities for both macro and wide-angle photography.
Dragon Lady
Dragon Lady is located on Zamami Island within the Kerama Islands. This dive site is often visited from October to April when northern winds are prevalent. The area features a gentle sandy slope, making it suitable for beginner divers. While encounters with coral and sea turtles are less frequent, the site offers excellent visibility characteristic of the Kerama region. Divers can expect to see a variety of marine life, including garden eels, damselfish, and glassfish. Other species that may be observed include frogfish, seahorses, and various types of clownfish. However, sightings of sea turtles remain low.
Dragon Lady
Dragon Lady is located on Zamami Island within the Kerama Islands. This dive site is often visited from October to April when northern winds are prevalent. The area features a gentle sandy slope, making it suitable for beginner divers. While encounters with coral and sea turtles are less frequent, the site offers excellent visibility characteristic of the Kerama region. Divers can expect to see a variety of marine life, including garden eels, damselfish, and glassfish. Other species that may be observed include frogfish, seahorses, and various types of clownfish. However, sightings of sea turtles remain low.
Dream Hole
Dream Hole is a popular dive site characterized by a drop-off that begins at a depth of 5 meters and descends to over 40 meters. A notable feature of this site is a narrow hole at the top of the reef, allowing divers to descend vertically for about 25 meters into a cave. The exit of the cave extends horizontally for approximately 15 meters, with its silhouette resembling that of Pikachu, which is a distinctive aspect of this location. Marine life commonly observed here includes species such as the glassy sweepers, golden sweepers, violet-lined anthias, garden eels, lionfish, and various other fish like the Taiwan shad and pygmy seahorses.
Dream Hole
Dream Hole is a popular dive site characterized by a drop-off that begins at a depth of 5 meters and descends to over 40 meters. A notable feature of this site is a narrow hole at the top of the reef, allowing divers to descend vertically for about 25 meters into a cave. The exit of the cave extends horizontally for approximately 15 meters, with its silhouette resembling that of Pikachu, which is a distinctive aspect of this location. Marine life commonly observed here includes species such as the glassy sweepers, golden sweepers, violet-lined anthias, garden eels, lionfish, and various other fish like the Taiwan shad and pygmy seahorses.
Emperor’s Chair
Emperor’s Chair, located off the Ishigaki Peninsula, is an advanced dive site with depths ranging from 20 to 40 meters. The site is characterized by strong currents and a prominent bill-shaped root structure. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of marine life, including schools of butterflyfish, dogtooth tuna, Napoleon fish, manta rays, and pygmy seahorses. This site is particularly suited for experienced divers due to its challenging conditions.
Emperor’s Chair
Emperor’s Chair, located off the Ishigaki Peninsula, is an advanced dive site with depths ranging from 20 to 40 meters. The site is characterized by strong currents and a prominent bill-shaped root structure. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of marine life, including schools of butterflyfish, dogtooth tuna, Napoleon fish, manta rays, and pygmy seahorses. This site is particularly suited for experienced divers due to its challenging conditions.
Enokuchi
Enokuchi is a notable dive site located on Mikomoto Island, characterized by its average depth of approximately 20 meters. Divers often navigate towards a prominent root structure known as 'Kadone' situated to the west. The site is particularly significant from summer to fall, as it attracts a variety of shark species, including hammerhead sharks, making it an important habitat for these marine animals. The entry to the dive site is from the shore, allowing for easy access to the underwater environment.
Enoura
Enoura is located on the west side of Kanagawa in the Nishishon area, providing a safe diving experience with a sloped entry and underwater guide ropes. The maximum depth at this site is 16 meters, making it suitable for beginner divers. Divers can follow the guide rope to discover a Doraemon statue positioned at 15 meters. The site features various underwater structures, including reefs, caissons, and grottoes, and is home to diverse marine life such as snappers, frogfish, nudibranchs, and blue squids during their egg-laying season. Annual cleaning of the site occurs around November, and the best time to visit is from spring to early summer.
Fukashima Island
Fukashima Island is the southernmost island in Oita Prefecture, situated approximately 9 km south of Kamae Port. The island has a small population of around 30 residents and is known for its unique landscape, featuring a central sandbar that connects two smaller islands. Underwater, divers can explore dynamic terrain with vibrant coral reefs and soft coral beds. The marine life includes clownfish inhabiting anemone fields, as well as abundant populations of gimpo and frogfish. Schools of snapper and damsels enhance the colorful underwater scenery, while large shoals of yellowtail and sardines may also be encountered. The site is accessible via shore entry.
Fukuura
Fukuura is situated on the west side of the Manazuru Peninsula, making it easily accessible from the Kanto region. This dive site features a beach entry and is known for its significant colony of coral anemones, which spans approximately 40×40 meters and is located at depths ranging from 1 to 10 meters. The anemones are home to various marine species, including clownfish, frogfish, foxface rabbitfish, hornbills, and catsharks, providing a diverse underwater experience.
Fushikikokubu
Fushikikokubu, located in Takaoka, Toyama, is a shallow dive site with a maximum depth of 5 meters, accessible via a beach entry at Kokubu Seaside Park. The area is known for its diverse marine life, particularly around the offshore wave blocks. Seasonal highlights include cuttlefish spawning in spring, various coral fish and yellowtails in summer, mackerel and red barracuda in fall, and nudibranchs and dungeness in winter. This site is suitable for divers of all experience levels throughout the year.
Fushikikokubu
Fushikikokubu, located in Takaoka, Toyama, is a shallow dive site with a maximum depth of 5 meters, accessible via a beach entry at Kokubu Seaside Park. The area is known for its diverse marine life, particularly around the offshore wave blocks. Seasonal highlights include cuttlefish spawning in spring, various coral fish and yellowtails in summer, mackerel and red barracuda in fall, and nudibranchs and dungeness in winter. This site is suitable for divers of all experience levels throughout the year.
Futo
Futo is a well-known dive site located in East Izu, featuring two main beach access points. The site is equipped with ramps and handrails, facilitating easy entry and exit for divers. The conditions are generally calm, making it suitable for beginners. From June to August, divers can observe large squids spawning in the area. The beach is also rich in marine life, showcasing a variety of anemones and numerous clownfish.
Futou
Futou is located in Nishi-Izu and can be accessed via a shore entry. The site features a mix of sandy areas leading to rocky terrain, with notable geological formations including caves, caverns, and arches. It is suitable for night diving throughout the year. Marine life is diverse, with nudibranchs present year-round, particularly abundant in spring. Divers can also encounter stingrays, flatworms, and sharks in the sandy regions, along with the seasonal spawning of blue squids during spring.
Gina
Gina, located on Aka Island in Okinawa, features a maximum depth of 18 meters and is characterized by calm currents, making it suitable for divers of all experience levels. The site is known for frequent sightings of green turtles, with manta rays occasionally appearing during the summer months. The underwater landscape includes coral shelves and is populated by schools of goatfish, blue tangs, and sparrowhawks, contributing to a diverse marine environment.
Gina
Gina, located on Aka Island in Okinawa, features a maximum depth of 18 meters and is characterized by calm currents, making it suitable for divers of all experience levels. The site is known for frequent sightings of green turtles, with manta rays occasionally appearing during the summer months. The underwater landscape includes coral shelves and is populated by schools of goatfish, blue tangs, and sparrowhawks, contributing to a diverse marine environment.
Ginowan Marine Center
The Ginowan Marine Center is an outdoor training facility located in Ginowan city, Okinawa. It features two distinct pool areas for diving training. The shallow water section has a depth of 1.2 meters and spans 25 meters in length, equipped with five or more lanes. The deep water section exceeds 3 meters in depth. As it is a pool environment, there is no marine life present. This facility is also suitable for freediving training. Additionally, a farmers market is located adjacent to the center.
Glass World
Glass World is situated at one end of a tidal cape, featuring a shallow area approximately 8 meters deep near the anchors. The site has four main anchor points, with depths reaching around 15 meters at the other locations. Divers will encounter clusters of white corals, which should not be touched to preserve the habitat. The sandy bottom and root structures require divers to maintain neutral buoyancy to prevent sand disturbance. The area experiences minimal current, making it accessible for divers. Common marine life includes green turtles resting in the shallow Shikoro coral zone, various wrasse species, macro creatures like jawfish and seahorses in sandy patches, and schools of snappers, particularly solas snappers near the roots and shallows.
Gorilla Chop
Gorilla Chop is a dive site with a maximum depth of 15 meters (50 feet), making it suitable for novice divers. The site features a rock formation resembling a gorilla and offers diverse marine life and coral structures. Entry is from the shore.
Gorilla Chop
Gorilla Chop, located at Sakimotobu Beach in Motobu Town, is a shore dive site known for its calm conditions even during the winter months when northern winds prevail. This site attracts many divers, particularly in winter, due to the presence of macro marine life such as frogfish, ornate ghost pipefish, and nudibranchs. Other species commonly observed include giant frogfish, banded sea kraits, cuttlefish, tonguesole, clownfish, damselfish, lionfish, octopus, boxfish, and trumpetfish. Facilities at the site include showers and restrooms, although hot water may not always be available. Parking is accessible from 8:30 AM, and facilities open at 9:00 AM.
Gorilla Chop
Gorilla Chop is a dive site with a maximum depth of 15 meters (50 feet), making it suitable for novice divers. The site features a rock formation resembling a gorilla and offers diverse marine life and coral structures. Entry is from the shore.
Goto Islands
The Goto Islands consist of over 140 islands located approximately 130 km west of Nagasaki, accessible by boat in about 90 minutes. The intricate coastline offers numerous diving locations. The area is influenced by the Tsushima Current, resulting in a rich marine environment with dense fish populations. Divers can observe a variety of marine life, including large migratory species such as yellowtail and bluefin tuna, as well as schools of colorful fish like sea bass and big yellowtail. The underwater landscape features both colorful corals and soft corals, enhancing the diving experience.
Green Rock
Green Rock is a dive site featuring a rocky reef structure with depths ranging from 10 to 25 meters. Expect to see a variety of marine life, including coral, small fish, and possibly larger species near the drop-offs. Ideal for both beginner and intermediate divers.