Explore Southern Kyushu
Diving in Southern Kyushu, particularly around the Satsunan Islands, offers an unparalleled underwater adventure that blends temperate and subtropical marine environments. This region is renowned for its diverse dive sites, featuring vibrant coral reefs teeming with life, making it a haven for marine enthusiasts. With warm water temperatures and excellent visibility year-round, divers can explore a variety of sites, from colorful reefs and dramatic walls to intriguing shipwrecks and sunken airplanes.
Each island in the Satsunan group has something unique to offer. Yoron Island is a must-visit for those eager to meet graceful sea turtles in their natural habitat. Meanwhile, Yakushima Island captivates with its ancient natural beauty both above and below the waterline. Amami Oshima Island is famous for its schooling fish and stunning macro life, perfect for underwater photographers. For those seeking more unique experiences, the Tokara Archipelago offers diverse dive options that cater to all levels, ensuring every dive is memorable. Whether you prefer shore dives, boat trips, or liveaboard adventures, Southern Kyushu promises a rich and rewarding diving experience.
Top Southern Kyushu Dive Sites
Amami Oshima
Amami Oshima offers vibrant coral reefs teeming with a diverse range of marine life, including sea turtles and colorful reef fish. The adventure level is easy to advanced, suitable for both scuba and freediving. The area is part of a national park, preserving its ecological importance.
Iki Island
Iki Island is known for its unique underwater rock formations and abundant schools of fish, like amberjacks and mackerels. It's an easy to moderate adventure, best for scuba diving. The island features marine protected areas, ensuring a rich underwater experience.
Sakurajima
Sakurajima boasts volcanic underwater landscapes with unique formations and vibrant marine life, including octopuses and nudibranchs. The adventure level ranges from advanced to technical, focusing on scuba diving. The site's active volcanic features make it a special diving destination.
Yakushima
Yakushima is famous for its crystal-clear waters and diverse marine ecosystems, including dolphins and rare seaweeds. It offers an easy to advanced diving experience, suitable for both scuba and freediving. The island is a UNESCO World Heritage site, preserving its natural beauty.
Kagoshima Bay
Kagoshima Bay provides an abundance of marine life, such as groupers and sea turtles, against a backdrop of volcanic sand. It caters to both easy and advanced scuba divers. The bay's underwater hot springs are a unique feature, attracting diverse species and offering a unique diving experience.