Soft Coral Garden

★★★★☆ (89)

Soft Coral Garden in Hozaura, Minami-ise, Mie, is a boat-entry site up to 25m deep, famed for vibrant soft corals and colorful scenery. Home to seahorses, frogfish, snappers, and bumphead parrotfish, it offers rich marine life and is suitable for both beginners and advanced divers.

The Soft Coral Garden features soft corals, scorpionfish, snappers, and small life like frogfish, seahorses, and nudibranchs in rich variety.

Dive Activity

Potential Wildlife Sightings

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

Moray Eel
10 Sightings
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Shutterstock-Shane Myers Photography

Green Turtle
7 Sightings
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Shutterstock-Ed Jenkins

Hawksbill 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: 27

iStock-Global_Pics

Barracuda
5 Sightings
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Alamy-National Geographic Creative

Leatherback Turtle
1 Sightings
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iStock-ShaneGross

Loggerhead Turtle
1 Sightings
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Alamy/BIOSPHOTO

Ocean Sunfish
1 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
1 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: 100

iStock-burnsboxco

Parrotfish
8 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: 130

Shutterstock_Krzysztof Odziomek

Butterfly Fish
6 Sightings
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Show More

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
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: 350

Alamy-Andre Seal

Damselfish
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: 3000

SSI-Peter-Schinck

Nudibranch
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: 90

Shutterstock-Rich Carey

Angelfish
5 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: 28

Udo Kefrig

Clownfish
5 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: 40

iStock-wrangel

Triggerfish
5 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: 90

Shutterstock-Levent Konuk

Goatfish
5 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: 3400

Shutterstock-Shane Gross

Shrimp
5 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
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: 85

iStock-mirecca

Surgeonfish
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: 60

iStock-Global_Pics

Soldierfish
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: 130

AdobeStock-JirinaVFR

Pufferfish
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: 2

iStock-stock_colors

Tarpon
3 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
3 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: 3

Shutterstock_Leo Lorenzo

Trumpetfish
3 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: 8

Alamy-Reinhard Dirscherl

Bannerfish
3 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: 250

Shutterstock-Henry_and_Laura_Whittaker

Grouper/Basslets
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: 300

iStock-deraugenzeuge

Snake Eel
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: 250

iStock-Miguel-Angelo-Silva.

Scorpionfish
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: 60

iStock-Global_Pics

Squirrelfish
2 Sightings
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AdobeStock_cherylvb

Garibaldi Damselfish
2 Sightings
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iStock-FionaAyerst

Lemon Shark
1 Sightings
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Alamy-WaterFrame

Common Seahorse
1 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: 130

iStock-Christian von Mach

Pipefish
1 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: 30

Shutterstock-s_a_j

Sand Eel
1 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: 40

iStock-Hoatzinexp

Jackfish
1 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: 110

iStock-Rainer von Brandis

Snapper
1 Sightings
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1

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species: 25

AdobeStock_Vladimir Wrangel

Boxfish
1 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-bearacreative

Emperor
1 Sightings
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1

The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

Total number of species: 55

k

Lobster
1 Sightings
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1
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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: 7000

iStock-Michael Zeigler

Crab
1 Sightings
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k

John Dory
1 Sightings
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SSI-Peter-Schinck

Leaf Scorpionfish
1 Sightings
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1
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Dive Centers Catering This Dive Site

アリストダイバーズ

三重県志磨市阿児町神明1001-17, 517-050 Shima-shi, Mie - Japan

Dive Sites Nearby

VIAMARE KUSHIMOTO, 6493503 Kushimoto

Glass World (★3.5)

This site is located at one end of the tidal cape. Anchors are placed at four main locations from the shallow area. The shallow area is shallow, about 8 meters below the anchors. There are clusters of white corals and care should be taken not to touch the corals. The depth at the other anchor points is usually about 15 meters. This site is dotted with sand and roots, so it is important to maintain neutral buoyancy to avoid sand uplift and to protect the habitat of the creatures. There is little current and the point is easy to dive.
VIAMARE KUSHIMOTO, 6493503 Kushimoto

Bizen (★3.4)

This is one of the west side points of Kushimoto. It is a deep point about 18m deep under the anchor. There are two big roots near the anchor, and it is a channel. The west side and the south side are sandy, and in the sandy area of the south side, the spawning ground of the cuttlefish is set up depending on the season. On the north side, there is a series of coral reefs, and after passing through the coral reefs, the sandy bottom spreads out. The depth of the sandy area is about 25 to 27m. There is almost no current, and it is a point that can be enjoyed by beginners to advanced divers.
VIAMARE KUSHIMOTO, 6493503 Kushimoto

Sumisaki (★3.4)

This popular diving spot in Kushimoto features a large pinnacle under the anchor, reaching about 12m. The depth increases to a maximum of 27m further north. With minimal current, it’s suitable for divers of all levels. Remote pinnacles are scattered, with one in the northeast and a cleaning station in the west.
Scubapro, Stephen Frink

Ando no Hana (★3.8)

There is one buoy in shallow water and one in deep water. In the deep area, the buoy is sunk in the sand mixed with mud, and the depth exceeds 20 meters under anchor. The deep buoy is located in the sand. The maximum depth is about 27m. Be sure to maintain neutral buoyancy in the sand. This is a limited time dive site from October, so it is definitely worth a visit.
Mares

Nakagurumi (★3.2)

This site features scattered reefs on sandy bottoms, with poor water flow often causing low visibility. Divers use a rope during descent and must control buoyancy and fin kicks to avoid stirring up sand. The maximum depth is about 10 meters, with small tunnels present. Currents are minimal.
VIAMARE KUSHIMOTO, 6493503 Kushimoto

Marine Center Front (★3.5)

Beach point on Route 42 has a sloped terrain; caution with equipment to avoid falls. Watch tide levels—low tide reveals rocks at entry. Ideal for diving during high tide; calm waters, shallow for easy diving. Beware of coral clusters; maintain neutral buoyancy while exploring.
SSI Service Center Japan, 101-0051 Chiyoda-ku

Kushimoto (★3.6)

Kushimoto, the southernmost town on Honshu, is strongly influenced by the Kuroshio Current, and has a large variety of tropical fish from Okinawa and Izu, making it one of the top fishing areas in Japan.
Aqualung

Isuzumi Reef (★3.4)

The dive takes place around a flat root that extends into the sand. There are two buoys, one in shallow water and one in deep water. There is almost no current and the depth is relatively shallow. The main attraction is a big arch in the root. Inside the arch, soft corals grow in clusters and it is a resting place for creatures. It is easy to dive, so beginners to advanced divers can enjoy this point.
VIAMARE KUSHIMOTO, 6493503 Kushimoto

Soshimaoki-1none (★3.5)

The tops of the roots are 13m to 17m. The top of the roots is 13m to 17m and the dive is usually done along the western drop-off which drops vertically to 30m. The white sandy seabed is beautiful and the mountainous roots are covered with soft corals such as sea squirts. It is recommended for intermediate to advanced divers because of the current depending on the time of day and season. The most popular point in the shallow area, the shallowest depth is 14m and the maximum depth is 30m.
VIAMARE KUSHIMOTO, 6493503 Kushimoto

Shimamawari (★3.9)

The top of the root is 6m and the bottom is 30m. The topography is like Ayers Rock in Australia sinking into the water. East, west, north and south are drop-offs. There is a small cave on the west side with a remote root. The current can be a bit swift, but it is not that strong. The tops of the roots are wide and covered with corals and anemones.
Mares

Noa Front Beach (★3.6)

Susami can be accessed from the Kansai area in about two hours, so it is home base for many divers in the Kansai area. Beach entry is available, but boat diving is the main activity.It is characterized by good clarity called “Susami Blue“ and a lot of migratory fish.
Scubapro, Stephen Frink

Koza River Nukumi (★3.7)

This dive site offers freshwater river diving in the clear Furuza River. You can observe the giant salamander, a special national natural monument. You can also dive downstream, but the giant salamander is often seen in the upstream area, about an hour upstream from Furuza town.
SSI Service Center Japan, 101-0051 Chiyoda-ku

Shirahama (★3.9)

The area is easily accessible from the Kansai area and has long been a popular diving area for Kansai divers as it has prospered as a hot spring tourist attraction. It has a long history as a dive site in the Kii Peninsula. There are plenty of points for both beach entry and boat entry.
SSI Service Center Japan, 101-0051 Chiyoda-ku

Tanabe (★3.9)

This area is very popular because it is close to the Kansai area and you can take a day trip there. It can be divided into three main areas: Tanabe, Hoyo, and Minabe. There are more than 30 points in the entire area with boat beaches.
Mares

Amiyoko (★3.4)

This popular Kuki Town, Mie, dive site reaches 28m and, being in an inland sea, is rarely closed. At 16m, the sandy bottom splits into sand and gorota zones, home to gobies, tench, and bumpheads. Rich in nudibranchs, crustaceans, and small critters, it’s ideal for varied marine life encounters.
Mares

Chū hana No.2 (★3.0)

Kuki in Owase City, Mie, faces the Sea of Kumano and is known for its rias-style harbor and warm winters thanks to the Kuroshio Current. At Nakahana No. 2, with depths up to 32m, divers can see schools of fish, cherry snappers, rare nudibranchs, and even green turtles on occasion.
Aqualung

Hebi no kuchi (★3.2)

This site has layered rock formations between deep and shallow sand, with soft corals and reef fish. The white sandy bottom holds black rockfish, sparrowhawks, and yellowfin wrasse. Green reef fish, blue corals, and anemones with clown shrimp, plus nudibranchs, make it a vibrant 20m-deep spot.
Scubapro

MTK Beach (★3.2)

Kuki is located near the center of the eastern side of the Kii Peninsula and has good access to both the Kansai and Chubu areas. Since the points are scattered around the entrance of the long and narrow cove of Guki Bay on the rias type coast, the sea is rarely rough.
Mares

Owase (★3.6)

Owase is located near the center of the eastern side of the Kii Peninsula and has good access to both the Kansai and Chubu areas. The surrounding area is a complex terrain due to the rias-style coast, and there are several islands, which are the main points of interest. Beach entry and boat diving are available.
Aqualung

Hozaura Nakahirase (★3.8)

Nakahirase in Hozaura, Minami-ise, Mie, is a calm dive site nestled in the rias coastline. Surrounded by mountains, it offers stable sea conditions year-round. With depths up to 24m, it’s suitable for all levels. Rafts are set at the site, allowing multiple entry methods for flexible diving styles.
Mares, Janez Kranjc

Rainbow Arch (★3.5)

Rainbow Arch in Aigaura, Minami Ise, Mie, features a massive arch ceiling draped in colorful soft corals. Home to rock lobsters, eels, nudibranchs, and shrimp, it’s great for macro and wide shots. Accessible by boat, it’s best from spring to fall for top visibility and vibrant scenery.
Mares, Predrag Vuckovic

Masakijima (★3.7)

Mazaki-jima, a small island in Ago Bay, Mie Prefecture, is just 10 minutes by boat from Kintetsu’s Kenshima Station. With calm, clear waters and a max depth of 10m, it’s ideal for snorkeling and beginner diving. Its gentle conditions suit families and entry-level divers year-round.
Mares, Predrag Vuckovic

S Point (★5.0)

S Point in Minami Ise, Mie, is a calm, clear-water dive site ideal for beginners and intermediate divers. It features the stunning “Rainbow Arch” and soft coral-covered terrain. Rich in marine life, you can see migratory yellowtail and colorful southern fish—making it a favorite for photo divers.
Scubapro

Todomari no hana (★3.8)

Todomari no Nose in Aigaura, Minami Ise, is a calm boat-entry site with depths to 28m. Artificial breakwaters act as fish reefs, attracting diverse species and large schools of migratory fish. With minimal current, it’s a stable, enjoyable spot for both beginners and advanced divers.
Aqualung

Orange Forest (★5.0)

Orange Forest in Minami Ise, Mie, is a boat-entry dive site with a max depth of 22m. Known for its clear waters, it features schools of yellowtail, bluefin squid, and occasional hammerheads. Deeper areas host macro life like Ayatolla and Xanthocorallis clownfish—great for both wide and macro diving.