Scuba diving in Hokkaido, Japan
Hokkaido, the northernmost island of Japan, offers some unique scuba diving experiences due to its cooler waters and diverse marine life. The best time to dive in Hokkaido is from May to October, when the water temperature ranges from 10 to 20°C (50 to 68°F).
Best scuba diving spots for experienced divers:
- Rishiri Island: Located off the coast of northern Hokkaido, Rishiri Island is famous for its crystal-clear waters and diverse marine life, including sea urchins, abalone, and sea anemones. The dive sites around the island range from shallow reefs to deep walls, with some sites offering challenging currents.
- Rebun Island: Another remote island off the coast of Hokkaido, Rebun Island offers a unique diving experience due to its underwater kelp forests. Divers can also spot sea urchins, crabs, and fish such as cod and salmon.
Best scuba diving spots for beginners:
- Otaru Aquarium: The Otaru Aquarium offers a unique experience for beginner divers to try scuba diving in a controlled environment. The aquarium has a large tank where divers can swim with a variety of fish and other marine creatures.
- Yoichi: The town of Yoichi offers some beginner-friendly dive sites, such as Iwanai Beach and Kiritappu Beach, which offer calm waters and easy access from the shore. Divers can spot a variety of fish and crustaceans in these areas.
Marine life and dive conditions:
Hokkaido's waters are home to a diverse range of marine life, including various species of fish, crustaceans, and sea mammals such as seals and sea lions. The dive conditions can vary greatly depending on the location and time of year, with some sites experiencing strong currents and others offering calm waters. Water temperature can also be a factor, with cooler temperatures ranging from 10 to 15°C (50 to 59°F) in the summer months.
Cost:
The cost of scuba diving in Hokkaido varies depending on the dive operator and location. Generally, expect to pay around 10,000 to 15,000 JPY (90 to 140 USD) per dive, with discounts available for multiple dives or diving packages. Gear rental is usually included in the cost of the dive, but it's best to check with the dive operator beforehand.
