Go Diving in Japan

You can enjoy scuba diving in Japan all year round, with each season offering something unique depending on the location. In summer, the water is warm and ideal for diving in a wetsuit, making it a great time for beginners and casual divers. As autumn arrives, visibility improves—especially around mainland Japan—and tropical fish from Okinawa migrate northward on the Kuroshio Current, creating vibrant underwater scenes. Winter is known for its exceptional water clarity, perfect for underwater photography and advanced divers. In spring, you can witness the beginnings of new marine life, as many creatures enter breeding season, adding a sense of renewal and wonder to your dives.

Japan’s waters are home to an incredible variety of marine life. You might encounter manta rays and sea turtles in Okinawa, hammerhead sharks in Izu, and a wide range of rare macro creatures like nudibranchs, frogfish, and seahorses. Japan is also home to several endemic species that can’t be found anywhere else, making each dive a unique experience for wildlife enthusiasts.

Advance booking is strongly recommended, especially during peak seasons (summer and holidays). Some remote or popular sites (like Mikomoto or Okinawa's Kerama Islands) fill up quickly.

Yes. Most dive shops offer full rental gear, but sizes may be limited, especially for larger wetsuits or fins. If you have specific fit needs, consider bringing your own.

Japan has an excellent public transportation system. The Japan Rail (JR) network connects major cities, and local trains or buses reach most dive areas. For remote sites, renting a car or booking transportation through a dive shop is recommended.

Here are a few practical things to know when planning your dive trip to Japan:

• Currency: The currency used in Japan is the Japanese Yen (JPY). Credit cards are accepted in most  dive shops, but cash is still commonly used. 

• Electricity & Plugs: Japan uses 100V electricity with Type A plug.

• Language: Japanese is the official language. English is spoken in many tourist areas, but not everywhere. Translation apps can be helpful when traveling outside of major cities.

• Phone & Internet: Prepaid SIM cards and portable Wi-Fi devices are widely available at airports and online. Japan has excellent mobile coverage in most dive areas.

• Time Zone: Japan is in the Japan Standard Time (JST) zone, which is UTC +9. There is no daylight saving time.