Explore Hokkaido
Diving in Hokkaidō, the northernmost region of Japan, offers a truly unique experience for adventurous divers. The region is renowned for its dramatic seasonal changes, with temperatures often falling below freezing in winter. This makes Hokkaidō a distinct diving destination where a dry suit is essential. One of the standout locations is the Shiretoko Peninsula, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From January, divers can experience the thrill of ice drift diving as drift ice arrives from the Amur River in Russia, creating a surreal underwater landscape.
The diverse marine environments in Hokkaidō are captivating. Lake Shikotsuko, Japan's clearest lake, boasts visibility over 50 meters, allowing divers to witness vibrant underwater flora and, come autumn, the remarkable sight of salmon spawning. Meanwhile, the Shakotan Peninsula offers a geological marvel with its columnar joints—stone pillars formed by cooling magma—adding an extra layer of intrigue to the underwater topography. Amongst this stunning setting, divers may encounter a variety of marine mammals, adding to the allure of Hokkaidō as a prime diving destination.
Dive Activity
Diving in Hokkaido
Hokkaidō, Japan's northernmost island, offers a diverse range of diving experiences that attract enthusiasts from around the world. One of the top wreck dives is the "Shakotan Peninsula," where divers can explore remnants of ancient vessels amidst vibrant marine life. The clear waters provide excellent visibility, making it ideal for capturing stunning underwater photography.
For those who enjoy shore dives, the "Akkeshi Coast" is popular, boasting a rich array of sea creatures and fascinating coral formations. Unique underwater experiences in Hokkaidō also include night dives, where divers can witness the mesmerizing bioluminescent displays of plankton. The region caters to both shore diving enthusiasts and those preferring liveaboard options, offering a balanced and fulfilling dive adventure.
Top Wildlife Sightings in Hokkaido
Hokkaidō, Japan's northernmost island, is known for its rich marine biodiversity, drawing divers eager to explore its waters. The Sea of Okhotsk, off the northern coast, provides a unique diving experience with its cold currents. Here, divers can often encounter the Asian sheepshead wrasse and schools of sardines. In the warmer months, sightings of the giant Pacific octopus are common, adding excitement to dives. In the summer, the waters around the Shakotan Peninsula become a hotspot for spotting larger marine species. Divers may have the chance to see the rare spotted eagle ray gliding gracefully through the water. Additionally, loggerhead turtles make occasional appearances, particularly from July to September. While encounters with sharks in Hokkaidō's waters are less frequent, the elusive salmon shark may be spotted by those diving further offshore during its migration season.
Wildlife Sightings are Based on User Generated Content
The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species: 300
Alamy/Reinhard Dirscherl
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Green Turtle
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Total number of species: 200
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Moray Eel
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Moon Jellyfish
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Total number of species: 12
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Lionfish
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Total number of species: 130
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Pufferfish
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Total number of species: 16
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Stickleback
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Total number of species: 300
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Snake Eel
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Total number of species: 130
Shutterstock_Krzysztof Odziomek
Butterfly Fish
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Total number of species: 28
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Clownfish
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The best Months to dive in Hokkaido
Diving in Hokkaidō offers diverse experiences throughout the year. Water temperatures range from 3°C–10°C/37°F–50°F in winter to 15°C–22°C/59°F–72°F in summer. Visibility can vary significantly, typically ranging from 5 to 20 meters/16 to 66 feet, depending on the season and location.
Diving is possible year-round, but conditions are most favorable from late spring to early autumn when the waters are warmer and visibility is at its best. Winter can bring challenging conditions with lower temperatures and stronger winds, which may affect currents and reduce visibility. Divers should plan accordingly, considering these seasonal variations.
