What is scuba diving? Introducing useful information for beginners such as necessary equipment and popular diving spots!

On this page, the most popular marine sports event " Scuba diving (scuba diving) ” is a special feature!
Experience tours at popular spots and recommended shops in Japan, necessary equipment and tools, types of licenses, etc. Thorough introduction of useful information for beginners To do.
Held in popular spots such as Okinawa and Izu Take part in a diving tour and enjoy the spectacular underwater world Please enjoy!
What is scuba diving?

Scuba diving (scuba diving) What is , is a type of marine sport where you enjoy diving while breathing oxygen from a tank carried on your back.
"SCUBA" is an acronym for Self Contained Underwater Breathing Apparatus. This is the origin of the name.
dive or swim in the sea Observe marine life such as colorful fish and coral reefs, and the beautiful underwater world such as unique topography What I can do is attractive.
At marine spots all over the country, A scuba diving experience tour that even beginners can participate in is held and gain popularity.
In addition, scuba diving represented by PADI and NAUI It is also possible to acquire a license (C card) and aim for a full-fledged diver is.
Dive time and depth of scuba diving

A licensed diver Dive time for one dive is about 30 minutes to 1 hour .
The maximum depth you can dive is Up to a depth of 40 meters (Actually, there is also data that can be up to 56 meters) This rule is recommended by each diving instruction organization.
In the case of introductory diving for beginners without a license, You can dive to a maximum depth of 12 meters without a license. is stipulated.
Types of scuba diving tours

From beginners to experienced and advanced divers with a diving license (C card) Held according to level scuba diving experience tour .
Held by diving shops all over Japan Scuba diving tours are roughly divided into the following three courses. there is.
Below, Introducing the characteristics of each of the three types and recommended experience tour plans I will continue.
What is trial diving?

What is experience diving? Scuba diving tours that do not require a diving license (commonly known as C card) is the name of
Because you can dive in the sea from a completely inexperienced person under the guidance of an instructor, Popular as a hands-on activity at travel destinations to collect.
Recommended experience tour
- 4.8
- (638 reviews and experiences)
A long-awaited new service only available at our shop. We have started selling cute new masks as a course participation benefit at a low price! This is a special benefit only available at Maldive, and you can take it home after the tour, so it is a recommended option that allows you to enjoy the Okinawa blue with a cute mask during your trip to Okinawa! We also sell new mouthpieces, so we can flexibly respond to your requests.
[Tokyo/Izu Oshima] Experience diving ♪ Underwater photography and video shooting service included
- 4.8
- (12 reviews and testimonials)
This store is quietly located in the Motomachi area, 10 minutes by car from Motomachi Port and 10 minutes by car from Okada Port. If you do not have a means of transportation such as a rental car, please contact us as we will pick you up. (Limited to Motomachi-Okada area) ~ Flow of the day ~ ① Meeting / reception (5 minutes) ② Explanation (15 minutes) ③ Change clothes & preparation (30 minutes) ④ Move to the point by car (10 minutes) ⑤ Die
- 4.8
- (12 reviews and testimonials)
I want to see the underwater world! Since I came all the way to Izu, I would like to experience diving in the beautiful sea! I want to try scuba diving before I get my license in earnest! For such people, we recommend “experience diving”. All you need is a swimsuit, a towel, and a healthy body! First of all, prepare your mind at the place where your feet land, and then in the water, professional instructors.
What is fun diving?

What is Fun Diving , is the name of a scuba diving tour for diving license (commonly known as C card) holders.
At diving spots all over the country, instructor guides and A tour with a set of diving equipment rental is held It has been.
Recommended experience tour
- 4.7
- (15 reviews and testimonials)
2-boat Fun Diving *Additional dive (3rd dive) is possible ***About Fun Diving*** You can comfortably spend the rest time between dives and navigating to the point on a large 2-story diving boat. The owner who has been diving in the sea of Okinawa for 10 years chooses the best point of the day, and the instructor explains it carefully.
[Kanagawa/Odawara] Beginner diver plan! Beginner-friendly beach area (full rental included)
- 4.8
- (17 reviews and testimonials)
This beach diving plan is recommended for beginners and blanks, such as "I just got my license", "I haven't been diving for a while", "I'm worried about my skills and want to play slowly in shallow water". If you have any questions or want to practice, please ask anything. A veteran instructor will carefully explain
What is a diving license course?
What is a diving license course? , It is a school plan aiming to acquire a diving license (commonly known as C card).
Certified by teaching organizations such as PADI and NAUI Tours organized by dive shops It has been.
Recommended experience tour
- 5.0
- (13 reviews/testimonials)
Get your PADI diving license while enjoying the Okinawan ocean, which is said to be the most beautiful in the world. PADI is the name of the world's largest diving education institution, and PADI licenses are valid anywhere in the world! If you love the ocean, if you have tried trial diving and want to try more, if you want to learn diving in Okinawa,
- 5.0
- (9 reviews and testimonials)
PADI Open Water Diver Course. PADI is the No.1 training organization in the industry that allows you to dive anywhere in the world. 70% of divers are PADI ☆ The card issued by Tiara is a trusted [Gold Card] ☆ A safe store with a PADI course director on staff ☆ A safe store with no accidents since the company was founded ☆ You can dive to a depth of 18m ☆ Strictly small group size ☆
- 4.8
- (2 reviews and testimonials)
If you enjoy major points unique to Shirahama, such as wrecks with deep shadows of fish and dynamic topography, improve your skills and step up! We offer high-quality training at the only 5-star certified shop in Wakayama Prefecture! Gold card issuing store “When divers who have acquired a C card will dive in various spots such as Shirahama, Okinawa and overseas resorts,
scuba diving equipment
" scuba diving What equipment do you need to enjoy I think that there are many people who are researching.
To enjoy scuba diving Introducing the necessary equipment and tools I will continue.
The basic equipment required for scuba diving is:
Scuba diving equipment list
- mask
- snorkel
- glove
- wetsuit
- boots
- regulator
- tank
- dive computer
- BCD
- gauge
- fin
While there are many familiar tools such as wet suits, snorkels, masks and fins, Equipment that you do not understand without basic knowledge There are many.
On tours organized by dive shops, these It is possible to rent a set of necessary equipment is.
Even if you want to get a license and aim to become a full-fledged diver, first It is recommended to use rental equipment instead of purchasing To do.
Popular scuba diving spots in Japan

From Hokkaido in the north to Okinawa in the south, Japan is an island country. all over the country scuba diving scattered spots doing.
" What are the popular diving spots in Japan? "or" Where is the recommended diving point? There may be many people looking for a place to dive with.
From here, based on Activity Japan reservation data " Ranking of Popular Scuba Diving Spots in Japan I will look at the trend of popularity from.
Ranking of Popular Scuba Diving Spots in Japan
The first place
|
Okinawa |
---|---|
2nd place
|
Tokyo |
3rd place
|
Shizuoka |
4th place
|
Kagoshima |
5th place
|
Wakayama |
6th place
|
Kanagawa |
7th place
|
Chiba |
8th place
|
Kochi |
9th place
|
Fukuoka |
10th place
|
Osaka |
Featured Articles
Okinawa is a world-famous diving spot!

Japan's world-class marine activity paradise " Okinawa ” is dotted with points called scuba diving attractions.
Above all, on the main island of Okinawa Cape Maeda, Blue Cave, Kerama Islands (Kerama), Ishigaki Island, Miyako Island, etc. There are many scenic diving points in the sea near the remote island area.
Join a diving tour A spectacular underwater world with colorful fish and coral reefs in the emerald blue sea Please enjoy!
Featured Articles
Tokyo's remote islands such as Izu Oshima and Hachijojima are also popular!

Floating in the Pacific Ocean off Sagami Bay Remote island areas such as Izu and the Ogasawara Islands belonging to Tokyo There are also many scenic diving points.
Among them, Hachijojima, Izu Oshima, etc. Diving tours tailored to various levels from beginners to advanced divers are held and are gaining popularity.
In the highly transparent sea, Diverse marine life including lots of fish and sea turtles is breathing.
Featured Articles
Shizuoka/Izu is one of the most popular diving spots in Japan!

Speaking of diving spots with good access from central Tokyo and the Kanto area, Shizuoka Prefecture's Izu Peninsula is famous.
Higashi Izu, Minami Izu, and Nishi Izu Diving points on the Izu Peninsula can be roughly divided into 3 areas Many diving tours are held and gain popularity.
In recent years, it has been called an unexplored region because it can only be reached by boat. Rising popularity of Hirizo Beach, a scenic marine spot in Minamiizu doing.
Featured Articles
Domestic scuba diving tour popularity ranking
Finally, based on Activity Japan reservation data " domestic scuba diving Tour popularity ranking ” will be introduced.
Starting with Okinawa, the most popular diving spot in Japan, Popular scuba diving experience tours all over Japan ranked in doing.
Starting with diving places (points) and experience fees (price), Reputation based on reviews and testimonials Please use it as a reference to compare and consider plan selection.
- 4.5
- (288 reviews and experiences)
The popular course [Blue Cave Diving and Parasail] is now available as a set course!! Underwater photos and flight photos will be given to you for free on the spot!! *Free underwater photos will only be given to your iPhone. For Android, a microSD card is required. If you hand over your mobile phone or digital camera to the staff during the parasail, we will take photos for free.
- 4.9
- (2944 reviews and experiences)
☆Corona countermeasure store ☆Okinawa blue cave beach experience diving★Please take a look at the five-star high-rated reviews♪The messages we receive from many customers are our treasures! Proud! ! Photos and videos taken underwater will be transferred to your smartphone immediately after diving! The state-of-the-art GOPRO video has already exceeded the ability of human eyes
- 4.7
- (424 reviews and experiences)
◉ Boat cruising and diving experience with manta rays, sea turtles and coral ◎ Boat cruising and diving in the crystal clear sea of Ishigaki Island's Kabira, which has been awarded three Michelin stars, where you can enjoy manta rays, sea turtles and colorful coral. ◎ A popular plan that allows you to enjoy the spectacular views above and below the water in half a day ◎ All of our instructors are experienced diving instructors.
- 4.3
- (647 reviews and experiences)
Ranked #1 in Google reviews for Okinawa diving keywords! *As of April 2025, according to a survey by the Review Rating Institute. Don't worry if you can't swim! Shop staff will provide full support! Trial diving will be conducted at a depth where the coral looks its best. You will first practice on the surface before going underwater, so you can enjoy diving with peace of mind!
- 5.0
- (228 reviews/testimonials)
・Sound parasailing, which is trademarked only by Skywalker♪ Feel refreshed with music echoing even in the sky! It also relieves the tension of children and people who are not good at heights.・Get on a parasailing boat, put on a life jacket and harness, and just take off from the boat! Even if you can't swim or have no physical strength, you can enjoy the sky and sea of Okinawa! Steadily rising
- 4.9
- (1954 reviews and experiences)
Must-see for first timers! Leave your special, once-in-a-lifetime experience to us. Safety and security are our responsibility. More than that, we guarantee "the best experience and special memories in video." We will create the best, most memorable experience of the Okinawan blue. Powder room amenities are fully stocked, so you can go sightseeing right after the tour. Experienced instructors
- 4.9
- (638 reviews and experiences)
A special day where you will naturally say, "I'm glad I went!" Take a leisurely boat cruise to the Blue Cave. Even the time you spend surrounded by the sea breeze will be an unforgettable memory. Our tours come with a dedicated guide and photographer for each group. Even first-timers and those who are not good at swimming can participate with peace of mind, thanks to our careful support. A moment from your precious trip.
- 4.8
- (638 reviews and experiences)
A long-awaited new service only available at our shop. We have started selling cute new masks as a course participation benefit at a low price! This is a special benefit only available at Maldive, and you can take it home after the tour, so it is a recommended option that allows you to enjoy the Okinawa blue with a cute mask during your trip to Okinawa! We also sell new mouthpieces, so we can flexibly respond to your requests.
- 4.3
- (294 reviews and testimonials)
The number one Google review for the Okinawa diving keyword! *As of April 2025, according to a survey by the Review Rating Institute. This plan allows you to enjoy trial diving in the Kerama Islands, which boast some of the world's most transparent waters. The first trial dive will help you get used to the underwater world, and the second dive will see you searching for sea turtles! With two dives, your chances of encountering sea turtles are significantly higher.
- 4.2
- (180 reviews and experiences)
The number one Google review for the Okinawa diving keyword! *As of April 2025, according to a survey by the Review Rating Institute. This plan allows you to enjoy trial diving in the Kerama Islands, which boast some of the world's most transparent waters. The first trial dive will help you get used to the underwater world, and the second dive will see you searching for sea turtles! With two dives, your chances of encountering sea turtles are significantly higher.
- 4.9
- (15 reviews and testimonials)
Miyakojima's diving shop PIPELINE. Miyako Blue is one of the most transparent in the world. Such a popular plan where you can enjoy boat experience diving in Miyakojima. While traveling by boat, you may have a chance to meet sea turtles and dolphins if the timing is right while gazing at the Irabu Ohashi Bridge!? in the cave
- 4.9
- (352 reviews and experiences)
Here are 6 points to help first-timers and anxious people to feel at ease when participating in Aoi! First-timers may have thoughts like, "Can I dive properly?" or "I'm not very good at swimming." We would like to introduce our hospitality to help such customers feel at ease and have fun! We would also like to try again!
- 5.0
- (55 reviews/testimonials)
Guide to Okinawa main island's most popular diving point, Blue Cave! ! Let's take a look at the fantastic and mysterious world of blue caves that can only be seen from underwater. This scenery created by the sunlight and the beautiful sea is sure to give guests the ultimate healing and excitement. You can experience weightlessness, hear underwater sounds, and other experiences unique to diving.
- 4.7
- (78 reviews/testimonials)
This is a tour with a variety of activities that you won't find at other stores! Thanks to you, we are celebrating our 20th anniversary this year. ■In one day, we will visit three popular spots, including manta rays, sea turtles, and Nemo. ☆ ■Of course, equipment is free! Inner cold weather clothing for winter is also available! ■During breaks, you can enjoy fishing and jumping competitions for free. ♪ ■We have been focusing on manta rays and turtles for 20 years.
- 5.0
- (29 reviews and testimonials)
・We offer longer underwater time (45 minutes or more) than general introductory diving! ・You can participate at your own pace because it is one-on-one with a guide. ・Free underwater photos taken with a high-performance camera! Bring home lots of wonderful memories! ・Before entering the water, we will give you a thorough lecture on land, so even beginners can participate with confidence. ・We hope you will have fun.
- 4.9
- (789 reviews and experiences)
There is also a set plan of marine activities and blue cave tour of other plans. → https://activityjapan.com/publish/plan/36922 [Our company's measures against coronavirus] Information on our measures against coronavirus so that customers can participate with peace of mind!!
[Kashiwajima, Kochi Prefecture] No license required! Explore the beautiful sea with a trial dive
- 5.0
- (2 reviews and testimonials)
The Kashiwajima area is said to be home to one-third of the fish species found in Japan. Facing the Bungo Channel, where a branch of the Kuroshio Current flows, this is an area of water where over 1,000 species of temperate and subtropical creatures can be seen. It is a popular spot for divers who are fascinated by the abundance of life. Trial dives are held at safe spots for those experiencing scuba diving for the first time.
- 4.7
- (81 reviews and experiences)
[9th Anniversary Summer Sale!] [Limited Time Offer! Regular price 11,000 yen, now 8,500 yen!!!] This is Ishigaki summer! The Taipa Plan allows you to fully enjoy the sea of Ishigaki in half a day. You can land on a miraculously uninhabited island that appears due to the tides and take photos, then try diving at a beautiful coral point, land on the phantom island and try diving on a tropical coral reef (half
- 4.9
- (44 reviews/testimonials)
Here is the luxury set plan for "snorkeling" in the Blue Cave ↓https://activityjapan.com/publish/plan/14520┗10% OFF from the lowest price 15,000 yen ~ / This plan is a luxury set plan for "trial diving" in the Blue Cave. \For more details, click here↓ "Chosen
- 4.9
- (83 reviews and experiences)
[Okinawa's popular activity, Blue Cave Diving] Blue Cave, located at Cape Maeda, Onna Village, Okinawa Prefecture. Our shop is a diving shop that specializes in trial diving in the Blue Cave. Many customers who visit us are first-timers, and we have guided many customers to the Blue Cave. First-time diving can be nerve-wracking, and some people take time to get used to the ocean.
- 4.8
- (12 reviews and testimonials)
I want to see the underwater world! Since I came all the way to Izu, I would like to experience diving in the beautiful sea! I want to try scuba diving before I get my license in earnest! For such people, we recommend “experience diving”. All you need is a swimsuit, a towel, and a healthy body! First of all, prepare your mind at the place where your feet land, and then in the water, professional instructors.
- 4.7
- (48 reviews and testimonials)
\ Urgent sale! Only now 1,000 yen off! 16,500 yen → 15,500 yen / \ Recommended for these people! / ① I haven't decided what to do on Ishigaki Island yet. ② I'm curious about sea turtles, the phantom island, and manta rays... I want to enjoy them all! ③ I want to play in the best ocean that "can't go wrong" while I'm there. ④ I'm a little nervous about my first dive... but I want to give it a try! Ishigaki
- 4.4
- (61 reviews/testimonials)
☆★Present for reservation!! ☆★※One fish food will be given to each group! Lots of fish will come to you♪★☆ Only 5-10 minutes by boat to the point! ★☆The most popular tour, closest to the manta ray point in Ishigaki Island♪Let's go to see not only manta rays but also sea turtles and Nemo! You've come all the way to Ishigaki Island, so
- 4.5
- (111 reviews and testimonials)
The trip is comfortable on our own large, dedicated diving boat. We travel by boat for about 30-40 minutes from Miyakojima's Nakagawatori Port and dive mainly around Shimoji Island and Irabu Island. From spring to early autumn, you can also try diving in Irabu Island's "Blue Cave." Diving in Miyakojima's unique terrain is beautiful, with the light filtering into the cracks and caves. At certain points, you can see sea turtles.
- 5.0
- (45 reviews/testimonials)
You can enter from the calm and beautiful beach of Miyakojima and dive up to about 5m into the beautiful sea filled with fish and coral. The diving time in the sea is about 40 minutes. Our shop offers private trial diving, so you will not dive with other guests. Even if you are not good with water, you can use a full-face mask to keep your face from getting wet.
- 4.9
- (161 reviews/testimonials)
~A safe and secure plan with a high probability of going to the Blue Cave! A popular plan for women~ *The advantage of the plan with boat is that you can go to the Blue Cave with a high probability! Even if swimming is prohibited at Cape Maeda, you can enjoy the Blue Cave by boat! Please note that we will decide whether or not to board the boat. / Boat boarding fee [1,500 yen/person] *Reservations are limited to small groups.
- 4.4
- (29 reviews and testimonials)
(Note) This is a tour that moves to 3 diving points in a day, such as Tokashiki, Zamami, and Aka Island (islands designated as a national park), rather than the Chibishi Islands, which is a half-day trip. At Joy Create Okinawa, we will guide you to 2 to 3 places with a lot of fish in one day, such as Zamami, Tokashiki, and Aka Island! Enjoy excitement and sensations that cannot be experienced with other sightseeing and attractions.
- 4.9
- (37 reviews and testimonials)
Morning session: 8:30-11:30 Afternoon session: 12:00-15:00 Afternoon session 15:30-18:30 Choose a plan that suits your schedule!! Pick-up and drop-off to your accommodation is available!! (Some areas are out of range) We will give you photos and videos of your memories at the sea!! [Fully private] We start from shallow waters where you can stand, so even beginners and those who are nervous can feel at ease.
- 4.6
- (24 reviews and testimonials)
A luxurious plan where you can enjoy Ishigaki Island's popular spot "Phantom Island" and introductory diving on the coral reef at the same time! A beginner-only instructor will carefully teach you how to use the equipment and how to breathe. With a small group and a dedicated guide, even those who can't swim can participate with peace of mind. Recommended points: [1] A spectacular time at Phantom Island! A deserted island with white sand
- 4.5
- (59 reviews and experiences)
The trip is comfortable on our own large, dedicated diving boat. We travel by boat for about 30-40 minutes from Miyakojima's Nakagawatori Port and dive mainly around Shimoji Island and Irabu Island. From spring to early autumn, you can also try diving in Irabu Island's "Blue Cave." Diving in Miyakojima's unique terrain is beautiful, with the light filtering into the cracks and caves. At certain points, you can see sea turtles.