Snorkeling Tour to Swim with Sea Turtles at Yakushima Island

Kagoshima Prefecture , Japan

Snorkeling Tour to Swim with Sea Turtles at Yakushima Island

Active

(16 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This is Snorkeling tour with the main purpose of meeting sea turtles and swim with them!
Yakushima is a world-famous "sea turtle island".* Please enjoy a relaxing time with the sea turtles in the sea of Yakushima.

Special Offer:
All photos and videos taken by us during the tour will be provided to you free of charge after the tour!
Even on days with fewer shots, we'll capture over 50 photos and videos, ensuring you have lasting memories of your enjoyable experience.

Note:
This isn't a tour which guarantee to meet sea turtles.
Please understand that it is not possible to meet 100% because sea turtles are also wild animals in the natural environment.

Available options

Snorkeling

Pickup included

What's included

Insurance fee

Experience / Course fee

Photo / video shooting & gifts

All Fees and Taxes

Use of Snorkelling equipment

What's not included

Lunch

towel

swimsuit

beach sandals

Available languages

Guide guide

JA EN

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 4.9

16 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Available for 5 to 70 year old

If you are participating with a family that includes children up to 3th grade (ages 5-9), or groups with individuals over 65 years old (aged 66-70), we will accommodate you with a "private charter tour".)

Those under the age of 13 (elementary school students) must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Currently, there is no staff member in our shop who are fluent in English. We are not good at English very well, so our pre-snorkeling briefing will be given in Japanese with some broken English and by gestures. However, snorkeling tours do not require as much technical instruction. Therefore, anyone can participate in snorkeling without any problems, even if they do not understand Japanese. Although it may be inconvenient, we will do our best to assist you. So please feel free to join us if you are okay with that!

[Private Tour Fees] For families who require a private tour due to age restrictions, or groups who wish to have a private tour, the following private tour fees will be charged per group in addition to the regular price. We kindly request that the 'private tour fee' be paid in cash on-site.

For groups of 5 or more people: +8,800 yen per group

For groups of 3-4 people: +10,900 yen per group

For groups of 2 people: +13,100 yen per group

For single participants: +14,200 yen per group

All guests aged 60 and over, and those under 60 with health concerns, must complete and bring the signed "Diver Medical/Participant Checklist"; doctor's approval may be required. The download URL for the 'Diver Medical/Participant Checklist' can be found in the Special instructions section of your mobile ticket. Please download and complete it from there.

Meeting point

The meeting point is "Isso Beach Parking Lot", located at the northern-most point of the island. Parking is free of charge. Also, there is bus stop No. 12, "Yahazu," very close to this beach. If you are coming by bus, please get off at this bus stop.

Important notes

All guests aged 60 and over, and those under 60 with health concerns, must complete and bring the signed "Diver Medical/Participant Checklist"; doctor's approval may be required.
"Diver Medical/Participant Checklist"
https://www.danjapan.gr.jp/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/Divermedical2022-02-01Japanese.pdf

About Kagoshima Prefecture

Kagoshima Prefecture, located at the southern tip of Kyushu, is famous for its active volcano, Mount Sakurajima, and its beautiful landscapes that blend volcanic activity with serene coastal scenery. Known for its rich history, hot springs, and unique local cuisine, Kagoshima offers a mix of natural wonders and cultural experiences.

Top Attractions

Sakurajima

Sakurajima is an active volcano and one of Kagoshima's most famous attractions. It offers stunning views, volcanic ash covered landscapes, and the chance to experience volcanic activity up close.

Nature Half to full day Free (ferry ride: ¥1,000-¥2,000 round trip)

Sengan-en

Sengan-en is a beautiful Japanese garden with a rich history. It was the residence of the Shimazu family, the feudal lords of Kagoshima, and offers stunning views of Sakurajima.

Historical 1-2 hours ¥600

Ibusuki Sand Baths

Ibusuki is famous for its unique sand baths, where visitors can relax in hot sand. The area also offers beautiful beaches and hot springs.

Relaxation Half to full day Sand bath: ¥1,500-¥3,000

Must-Try Local Dishes

Kagoshima Ramen

A local ramen dish with a rich, pork-based broth and thin noodles, often topped with chashu (braised pork) and green onions.

Dinner Contains pork, gluten (noodles and broth)

Satsuma-age

Deep-fried fish cake made from ground fish and other ingredients, often served as a side dish or snack.

Snack Contains fish, gluten (sometimes)

Kibinago no Miso Nabe

A hot pot dish made with small fish called kibinago, cooked in a miso-based broth with vegetables and tofu.

Dinner Contains fish, soy (miso)

Popular Activities

Hiking in Yakushima Volcano trekking in Sakurajima Scuba diving in the nearby islands Sand baths in Ibusuki Onsen (hot springs) in various locations Beach relaxation Visiting historic sites like Sengan-en and Shimazu Historical Museum Experiencing traditional Kagoshima festivals

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)

These seasons offer pleasant weather, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Spring brings cherry blossoms, while autumn offers beautiful foliage.

15-25°C 59-77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

JST (UTC+9)

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Kagoshima is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, visitors should be aware of potential natural hazards and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
• Use licensed taxis and reputable tour operators.
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight.

Getting there

By air

Kagoshima Airport • 10 km from Kagoshima city center

By train

Kagoshima-Chuo Station

By bus

Kagoshima Chuo Station Bus Terminal, Tenmonkan Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is efficient and covers most of the city. Buses are a convenient and affordable way to get around.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, Uber (limited availability)

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Tenmonkan Dogo

Day trips

Yakushima Island

130 km from Kagoshima • Full day to overnight

Yakushima is a remote island known for its ancient cedar forests, waterfalls, and unique ecosystems. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers stunning natural beauty.

Ibusuki

50 km from Kagoshima • Half to full day

Ibusuki is a coastal town famous for its sand baths, hot springs, and beautiful beaches. It's a popular destination for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Festivals

Kagoshima Kiriko Festival • Early October Ibusuki Fireworks Festival • Early August

Pro tips

Visit Sakurajima early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and see eruptions.
Try local specialties like Kagoshima ramen, satsuma-age, and kibinago no miso nabe.
Explore the historic sites and cultural attractions in Dogo for a glimpse into Kagoshima's rich past.
Experience a traditional ryokan or minshuku for a unique cultural experience, complete with onsen (hot springs) and tatami rooms.
Book accommodations and popular attractions well in advance, especially during peak seasons and festivals.