Japan, an island nation surrounded by the sea, offers some of the world’s most diverse and rewarding diving experiences.

Mikomoto is world-renowned for its schools of hammerhead sharks.

Scuba Diving Japan

Top Diving Destinations in Japan

Explore the Unique Marine Environments of the Japanese Archipelago

Japan, an island nation surrounded by the sea, offers some of the world’s most diverse and rewarding diving experiences. From vivid seasonal marine life to unique underwater terrain shaped by volcanic activity, divers can enjoy a rich variety of dive environments throughout the year.

This page introduces three of Japan’s most popular and distinctive dive spots, loved by both domestic and international divers:

  • Mikomoto Hammers (Shimoda, Shizuoka)

  • Nature Inn Osekan (Osezaki, Numazu)

  • Ito Bommie (Tateyama, Chiba)

These locations are known for excellent water visibility, biodiversity, high safety standards, and English-speaking instructors, making them ideal for international travelers.

1. Mikomoto Hammers (Shimoda, Shizuoka)

Region & Environment

Mikomoto Island lies off the southern tip of the Izu Peninsula in Shizuoka Prefecture. Its nutrient-rich waters, powered by strong currents and the warm Kuroshio Current, support an abundant marine ecosystem. With crystal-clear visibility and dramatic blue water, Mikomoto is considered one of Japan’s premier pelagic dive sites.

Diving Highlights

Mikomoto is world-renowned for its schools of hammerhead sharks, which can often be seen in large numbers.

This site is famous among experienced divers for its thrilling drift dives through powerful currents – ideal for advanced divers seeking adrenaline-fueled encounters with pelagic life.

Hammerhead sharks - Mikomoto Diving

2. Nature Inn Osekan (Osezaki, Numazu)

Location & Natural Features

Located in Suruga Bay in Numazu, Shizuoka, Osezaki offers a calm, protected bay perfect for shore dives. Thanks to its unique geography, the waters here are clear and mild, suitable for all levels from beginner to advanced.

Marine Biodiversity & Underwater Landscape

The bay is a paradise for macro lovers and underwater photographers. Colorful species like clownfish, nudibranchs, and soft corals flourish here, and the underwater scenery changes beautifully with the seasons.

Diving Experience & Accessibility

Osezaki provides easy entry for beginners, while also offering deep-water options for more advanced divers. Its facilities are family-friendly and well-equipped for foreign guests, with English-speaking instructors available upon request.

Osezaki underwater

3. Ito Bommie (Tateyama, Chiba)

Overview of the Region

Situated on the Boso Peninsula in Chiba Prefecture, Ito Bommie is famous for close encounters with large marine species. The seasonal variety of fish makes this area especially exciting for repeat divers, and even whale sharks have been spotted on occasion.

Marine Life & Dive Style

Divers can expect to see bamboo sharks, stingrays, and sometimes whale sharks during certain seasons.

This is a dynamic boat dive site that’s both thrilling and accessible.

Stingray - Ito Diving

Photos courtesy of Mikomoto Hammers.