Scuba Diving in Kansai, Japan
Kansai, located on the southern side of Honshu, Japan's largest island, is an excellent location for scuba diving. The area boasts a rich marine ecosystem with various diving spots suitable for both beginners and experienced divers.
Best Scuba Diving Spots for Experienced Divers:
- Shirahama: famous for its underwater topography featuring cliffs and caves that are home to various marine life such as barracudas and manta rays.
- Kashinozaki: a popular spot for drift diving, where strong currents bring in schools of colorful fish and other sea creatures.
- Kii Oshima: a remote island with clear waters and abundant marine life such as schools of hammerhead sharks, barracudas, and various types of rays.
Best Scuba Diving Spots for Beginners:
- Awaji Island: known for its easy access and calm waters, making it an excellent spot for beginners. The area is home to various marine life such as seahorses and octopuses.
- Asuka: located in Wakayama, this spot offers gentle currents and excellent visibility, allowing beginners to enjoy colorful fish and coral.
Marine Life and Dive Conditions:
Kansai's waters are home to a diverse array of marine life, including various fish species, octopuses, seahorses, and larger creatures like manta rays, barracudas, and hammerhead sharks. The water temperature ranges from 15 to 28 degrees Celsius, depending on the season. Visibility can be up to 30 meters in some areas, making for an excellent diving experience.
Cost:
The cost of scuba diving in Kansai varies depending on the dive shop, location, and equipment rental. Generally, a single dive can cost anywhere between $70 to $150, while a full-day diving excursion can cost between $200 to $400.
