The archipelago of Japan is a place that is abundant in crowded cities, mountains, shrines, and temples. There are numerous options for recreational activities to choose from. The landscapes of Japan are captivating and the cuisine you find here is delicious. The archipelago offers a vast range of water adventure activities to its visitors. If as a child you thought how amazing the life of a Mermaid is, then snorkeling in Japan is one activity that you absolutely must try.
When deciding when to visit Japan, it is important to consider the rainfall and cold weather. Therefore, the most suitable months to visit the place are March to May and September to November. When vacationing in Japan, it is highly recommended to stay at a traditional Japanese inn in order to experience the customs and traditions of the local people.
Top 13 Spots For Snorkeling In Japan
The sea and marine life have always held a certain mystique for mankind. The creatures and various types of animals found deep within the wonders of the sea are something that excites everyone. Thanks to the recreational activity of snorkeling, it has become easier for us to witness and admire marine life up close and be amazed by what it has to offer. And if Japan is your next holiday destination, here is a list of the finest snorkeling spots in Japan that you should explore.
1. Ishigaki, Okinawa
If you adore islands, then Ishigaki is the ideal place for you. It serves as a starting point for numerous beaches and coral reefs. The place is extremely popular for its snorkeling activities. Besides snorkeling, there are also some museums to explore.
How to arrive: You can take a direct flight from Naha Airport or from Tokyo’s Haneda Airport to reach New Ishigaki Airport.
Average cost: INR 5,000 per person
Best time to visit: June-October
2. Kerama Islands
As children, we were always fascinated by watching Finding Nemo. And on the Kerama Islands, you have the opportunity to relive those cherished memories through snorkeling. The Kerama Islands are home to a large number of sea turtles. So, you may be lucky enough to spot some turtles while snorkeling here. With a multitude of activities to enjoy, there is no doubt that it is one of the best snorkeling spots in Japan.
How to Get There:
You can either reach the Kerama Islands by a car ferry or a high-speed boat from Naha.
Average Price:
The average cost is INR 7,900 per person.
Best Time to Travel:
The best time to visit is from May to September.
3. Miyakojima
The place is packed with plenty of enjoyable activities. You can explore some shrines here, go snorkeling, and discover the coral reefs. And if that’s not sufficient, there are also amusement rides you can enjoy. The water in the Miyakojima city is warm and teeming with marine life to explore. There is also a lighthouse you may wish to explore.
How to Get There:
Take a flight from any of the following airports to reach Miyakojima: Haneda Airport in Tokyo, Naha Airport in Okinawa, or Ishigaki Airport.
Average Price:
The average cost is INR 4,300 per person.
Best Time to Travel:
The best time to visit is from May to September.
4. Iriomote Island
The place is abundant with dense and thriving mangroves. The Iriomote Island is a part of the Iriomote-Ishigaki national park. The location serves as a habitat for the Iriomote wildcats and boasts stunning waterfalls. There is also a beach called Hoshizuna, which features coral reefs and an abundance of fish. So, if you’re looking for the finest snorkeling destination in Japan, you should head to Iriomote Island.
How to Get There:
Anyone can reach Iriomote Island by taking a ferry from Ishigaki Island via high-speed ferries.
Average Price:
The average cost is INR 4,000 per person.
Best Time to Travel:
The best time to visit is from March to October.
5. Onna Okinawa
This is a hamlet on the southern isle of the Okinawa village. The spot is tranquil and exquisite and is an excellent location to unwind with your loved ones. There are plenty of resorts and accommodations where you can stay and avail yourself of snorkeling amenities in Japan.
How to get there: Arrive at Naha and from there you can hire a taxi or take a direct bus to Onna Okinawa.
Standard cost: INR 2,400 per individual
Ideal time to visit: June-October
6. Zamami, Okinava
Zamami is a petite village situated in Okinawa. But don’t be deceived by its unremarkable size as the place is exceedingly beautiful. While you are here, you can indulge in scuba diving and snorkeling. The noteworthy aspect is that the place is a habitat for numerous sea turtles. لعبة كرة السلة So if exploring the aquatic life is on your agenda, then you must pay a visit to this little village in Japan.
How to get there: The optimal way to reach Zamami is by opting for a high-speed ferry, Queen Zamami, from Naha city in Okinawa Island.
Standard cost: INR 5,000 per individual
Ideal time to visit: May-October
7. Ogasawara Islands
We all desire to remain connected with nature and be in close proximity to it. However, unfortunately, not many of us can experience it due to the fact that we reside in urban landscapes. Hence, embarking on vacations is one way to accomplish this. The Ogasawara islands boast abundant flora and fauna. That’s not all, it showcases a diverse array of plant and animal life that is unparalleled and unlike any other place. The water present in the shorelines is exceptionally transparent, granting us an opportunity to witness the astonishing marine life thriving here. This is a renowned destination that you should explore if you wish to go snorkeling in Japan.
How to reach:
To begin your journey to the Ogasawara Islands, you must first reach Tokyo. From there, you can take an overnight ferry to reach the islands. The journey will start from Takeshiba Terminal in Tokyo and end at Futami Port on Chichijima Island.
Average cost:
The average cost per person for this trip is INR 4,500.
Best time to visit:
The recommended time to visit the Ogasawara Islands is from June to August.
For more travel tips on Japan, check out the following article: Japan Travel Tips: Explore the Timeless Island Nation with Ease
8. Izu Shichito Islands
These islands are a series of seven floating in the Pacific Ocean. The Izu Shichito islands are situated to the south of Tokyo. The location is brimming with thermal springs and boasts a delightful climate, making it a great destination to visit at any time of the year. The picturesque surroundings and the perfect weather create an ideal setting for engaging in various water sports, particularly scuba diving.
How to reach:
To reach the Izu Shichito Islands, you have several options such as ferry, jetfoil, plane, or helicopter from Tokyo.
Best time to visit:
The best time to visit the Izu Shichito Islands is from July to September.
9. Kohama Islands
To get to the Kohama Islands, you will need to take a ferry from Ishigaki Island. The ferry ride lasts approximately 25 minutes. Like other islands in Japan, this place is abundant in diverse flora and fauna. You can indulge in scuba diving and snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters surrounding the Kohama Islands. Keep an eye out for the native water buffalos that can be spotted here.
How to reach:
The most convenient way to reach the Kohama Islands is by taking a direct flight from Japan or Okinawa’s Naha Airport to Ishigaki Island, and then taking a ferry from Ishigaki Island to Kohama Islands.
Average cost:
The average cost per person for visiting the Kohama Islands is INR 3,200.
Best time to visit:
The recommended time to visit the Kohama Islands is from March to August or October to November.
For those interested in exploring mosques in Japan, check out this article: Discover 10 Hidden Mosques in Japan
10. Kakeroma Jima
It is an islet in the Pacific Ocean. Though not a very popular tourist destination, it still has some awe-inspiring coastlines that you can explore for hours and enjoy some quality time with your family. There is no doubt that this location is ideal for snorkeling in Japan.
How to arrive: To reach Kakeroma Jima, you will first need to reach Kagoshima from where you can take a ferry ride to the destination.
Average price: INR 2,000 per individual
Best time to go: July-October
11. Motobu
This is another islet area which is composed of many small villages. There are numerous aquatic sports that you can explore here, from diving to parasailing, the place has it all. Motobu is also home to dolphins. So, keep an eye out for spotting them.
How to arrive: The best way to reach Motobu is by driving or taking a bus ride from Naha. The total journey can be completed in 1 hour. من الفائز بكاس العرب 2024
Average price: INR 3,000 per individual
Best time to go: August-October
12. Shimojishima
If you enjoy lengthy trails and strolls, then you must visit Shimojishima. The place has a tranquil atmosphere and is a very good spot to spend some time alone reflecting. Apart from this, you can always go snorkeling and diving that is done here.
How to reach: You can take a nonstop flight from Okinawa to Shimojishima Airport and arrive at your destination easily in a few hours.
Average price: INR 4,300 per individual
Best time to visit: June-October
13. Irabu islands
If the concept of caves excites you, then you will adore the Irabu islands as they are home to a plethora of caves. The water here is also utilized for activities like snorkeling and scuba diving.
How to reach: To arrive at the Irabu Islands, you will initially need to board a flight from Naha Airport to Miyako Airport and then make your way to the islands.
Average cost: INR 4,000 per individual
Best time to visit: May-September
Tips For Snorkeling
Before embarking on a trip to Japan for snorkeling, there are some do’s and don’ts that you should be aware of. So, here are some essential tips that will assist you in planning more effectively.
- The foremost thing to bear in mind is to attentively listen to the instructions and ensure that you do not miss anything. When was Cristiano Ronaldo born
- Familiarize yourself with all the significant gestures during your training and listen attentively.
- Prior to engaging in the activity, make sure to examine the equipment and if it is faulty, exchange it.
- If you experience any respiratory difficulties, it is advisable to refrain from participating in this activity.
- It is recommended to refrain from consuming any food for at least 4 hours before the activity to prevent underwater sickness.
- You may come across various water activity packages that include snorkeling. Select the most suitable one for yourself in advance to take advantage of discounted prices.
Japan is replete with island towns and places that are stunning and simultaneously offer a multitude of activities to enjoy during vacations. These places are perfect when traveling with family or friends. We hope that this compilation of snorkeling destinations in Japan will assist you in better planning your Japanese vacation. So, organize a journey to Japan and embark on a transformative snorkeling experience.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Snorkeling In Japan
What is the top island for snorkeling in Japan?
There are numerous islands and shores in Japan where one can go for snorkeling and other activities, and selecting the best one is slightly challenging. However, Ishigaki sees a large crowd for such activities.
How can you reach Kerama Island for snorkeling?
There are two methods to reach Kerama Island from Naha. One can either take a high-speed boat or a car ferry from Naha to Tokashiki Island or from Naha to Zamami Island.
How many islands are there in Okinawa?
There are about 55 islands and islets in Okinawa that are categorized into three groups – Sakishima Islands, Amami Islands, and the central Okinawa Islands.
Can a non-swimmer choose to snorkel?
Yes, anyone can choose to snorkel as there is no requirement for swimming. The activity is conducted on the water surface, making it quite easy to participate in.
Is snorkeling a challenging activity compared to other water sports?
No, snorkeling is not at all challenging and can be done by both swimmers and non-swimmers.
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