Scuba Diving in Kyushu, Japan
Kyushu is the third largest island of Japan and has some excellent scuba diving spots for divers of all levels. The waters surrounding Kyushu are home to a diverse range of marine life and offer great visibility for divers.
Best Scuba Diving Spots for Experienced Divers:
- Gajumaru Island - This dive site is known for its underwater caverns and unique rock formations. Experienced divers can explore the many swim-throughs and see a variety of marine life, including colorful nudibranchs and schools of fish.
- Uotsuri Island - This remote island offers some challenging drift dives with strong currents, but also boasts a variety of marine life such as giant manta rays and hammerhead sharks.
Best Scuba Diving Spots for Beginners:
- Amami Oshima - This dive site is known for its calm and shallow waters, making it perfect for beginners. Divers can see a variety of marine life such as sea turtles and colorful coral reefs.
- Sakurajima - This volcanic island offers some easy dive sites with a variety of marine life such as clownfish, angelfish, and octopus.
Marine Life:
Kyushu is home to a diverse range of marine life, including manta rays, hammerhead sharks, sea turtles, and colorful coral reefs. Divers can also spot a variety of smaller marine creatures such as nudibranchs and seahorses.
Dive Conditions:
The dive conditions in Kyushu are generally good, with visibility ranging from 15 to 30 meters depending on the season. Water temperatures range from 18 to 28 degrees Celsius, with the warmer months from June to September being the best time to dive.
Cost:
The cost of scuba diving in Kyushu varies depending on the dive center and the type of dive. A single boat dive can cost between 10,000 to 15,000 yen, while a full-day dive package can range from 20,000 to 30,000 yen. Equipment rental and certification courses are also available for additional fees.