Discover Scuba Diving with Sea Turtle Course in Yakushima
Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
"Discover Scuba Diving / Special 1 Dive Course" is an activity focused on meeting sea turtles and swimming with them!
The sea turtle encounter rate will increase dramatically because you can go far away more and more by diving for a longer time than normal experience diving.
The crystal-clear blue waters of Yakushima nurture a rich ecosystem, creating a bountiful paradise where various creatures, including sea turtles, live peacefully. Let's take a peek into the sea of Yakushima, where sea turtles live in peace! And let's swim with sea turtles!!
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.
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.
Available options
Discover Scuba Diving with Sea Turtle Course in Yakushima
Pickup included
What's included
Insurance fee
Experience / Course fee
Use of SCUBA equipment
Photo / video shooting & gifts
All Fees and Taxes
What's not included
Lunch
towel
swimsuit
beach sandals
Available languages
Guide guide
JA
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
5.0
8 reviews
5★
8
4★
0
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0
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0
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Available for 10 to 70 year old
If you are participating with a family that includes children in grades 4-6 (ages 10-12), or groups with individuals over 65 years old (aged 66-70), we will accommodate you with a "private charter tour". Additionally, children in grades 2-3 (ages 8-9) can experience the adventure of "breathing underwater" in shallow waters up to -2 meters deep. This will also be arranged as a "private charter tour."
Those under the age of 13 (elementary school students) must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
For this course, we need to give you a technical lecture in Japanese for about 1 hour before diving. But there is no staff member in our shop who are fluent in English now. We are not good at English very well, so our pre-diving briefing will be given in Japanese with some broken English and by gestures. Therefore, it might be difficult for those who are completely new to diving and do not understand Japanese to join in it... We apologize for the inconvenience...
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. Furthermore, Snorkeling has the highest chance of meeting sea turtles of all sea activities! The chances of seeing sea turtles are much higher with this course than with the "Introductory Diving / Special 1 Dive Course (commonly known as the Sea Turtle Course)", which has a longer dive time specifically designed to see sea turtles. Please consider it.
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.
Not allowed to move to higher places just after diving For diving medical reasons, you are not allowed to board an airplane or move (climb) over 500m in height within 12 hours after the diving experience. Please note that we can't accept you if you plan to fly back or climb a mountain on the same day! However, even if you are returning on the same day, there is no problem if you use a ferry or high-speed boat. And you can experience diving on the day of arrival.
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.
Get Price
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
