Explore Shikoku
Shikoku offers a captivating diving experience that appeals to both beginner and seasoned divers. Situated in a region blessed with the warm waters of the Kuroshio Current, Shikoku allows diving enthusiasts to explore its marine wonders throughout the year. With numerous dive sites located less than a 15-minute boat ride away, the convenience of accessing these underwater treasures is unmatched. Beginners can also enjoy shore dives at shallow sites, making it an ideal destination for all skill levels. The region's diverse underwater terrain boasts exhilarating pinnacles, drop-offs, and arches, adding an element of adventure to each dive.
The biodiversity in Shikoku's waters is nothing short of spectacular. Thanks to the nutrient-rich currents, divers can encounter over 1,000 species, a fascinating blend of tropical and temperate marine life. Vibrant table corals are home to colorful tropical fish, creating a mesmerizing seascape. This rich marine diversity draws biologists and photographers eager to capture the region's unique underwater world. Known locally as the sacred place of Japanese macro creatures, Shikoku provides an extraordinary dive experience, surrounded by natural beauty and tranquility, away from the bustling crowds. Between dives, the island's enchanting landscapes, from Naruto’s natural whirlpools to its hidden waterfalls, offer endless exploration opportunities on land as well.
Dive Activity
Diving in Shikoku
Shikoku, Japan, offers an array of compelling dive sites that attract both shore and liveaboard divers. Among the top destinations is the Muroto Anan Kaigan Quasi-National Park, where divers can explore vibrant coral gardens and encounter unique marine life such as the Japanese pygmy seahorse. Night dives here reveal fascinating nocturnal behaviors of local sea creatures, adding an adventurous edge to the diving experience.
For those interested in wreck dives, Cape Ashizuri presents intriguing opportunities with sites like the sunken cargo ship, which lies in accessible depths teeming with marine inhabitants. Shore divers appreciate the ease of entry and diverse ecosystems found around Shikoku’s coastline, while liveaboard options offer extended exploration of remote underwater wonders. This balance ensures a fulfilling experience for divers of all preferences and skill levels.
Top Wildlife Sightings in Shikoku
Shikoku's coastal waters offer a vibrant marine ecosystem, teeming with diverse life. Common reef fish in the region include clownfish, angelfish, and parrotfish, which divers can easily spot around the island's coral reefs. The warm Kuroshio Current influences the area's biodiversity, making it conducive for a wide range of species. During the summer months, divers might encounter sea turtles, particularly around the southern coasts, where they are more prevalent. Rays, including the elusive manta ray, can be spotted near the Otsuki area during late spring. Shark sightings, such as hammerheads, are more likely during the autumn, especially around the rocky outcrops where they tend to congregate. Each season brings its unique highlights, making Shikoku a dynamic diving destination year-round.
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: 200
Alamy-WaterFrame
22 Sightings
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Shutterstock-Shane Myers Photography
Green Turtle
6 Sightings
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The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species: 600
iStock/ultramarinfoto
Wrasse
4 Sightings
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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
Octopus
3 Sightings
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iStock-ShaneGross
Loggerhead Turtle
2 Sightings
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The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species: 50
istock-atese
Frogfish
23 Sightings
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The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species: 3000
SSI-Peter-Schinck
Nudibranch
21 Sightings
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The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species: 150
Shutterstock-aquapix
Sweetlips and Grunts
16 Sightings
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The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species: 80
iStock/Extreme-Photographer
Stingrays
12 Sightings
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The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species: 12
iStock/cinoby
Lionfish
12 Sightings
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The best Months to dive in Shikoku
Shikoku offers diverse diving conditions throughout the year. In summer, water temperatures range from 22°C–28°C/72°F–82°F, providing warm and comfortable diving. Winter temperatures drop to 16°C–18°C/61°F–64°F, necessitating proper thermal protection. Visibility is generally good, often reaching 10–20 meters/33–66 feet, but can be affected by weather and tidal changes, especially during the rainy season.
Diving is possible year-round in Shikoku, though summer and autumn are particularly favorable due to calmer seas and better visibility. Winter diving requires more preparation due to colder waters. Typhoon season, typically from August to October, can bring strong winds and currents, potentially disrupting dive plans. Planning dives around these factors ensures a safer and more enjoyable experience.
