Quick Okinawa Info
Diving |
Updated on : March 31, 2005 |
Okinawa is a year-round diving Mecca. Explore the mysterious deep
In Okinawa's warm ocean climate, you can dive year-round. A wonderful activity that all ages can enjoy, diving is fun for everyone, from younger school kids to seniors. Additionally, there is a system coming that will enable the physically challenged to also experience the wonderful world of the ocean in complete safety.
There are an estimated 800 different kinds of coral in the world. Some 200 of these are found in Okinawan waters. With every island more or less surrounded by coral reefs, entry into the water from the beach is possible at many locations, an easy alternative to boat entry. Some islands have undersea caves. On Shimoji Island, a unique seaside fresh water pond called Tori-ike is connected to the sea. How about exploring the undersea ruins off Yonaguni Island. Is it a work of nature or of man? The debate still rages. At any rate, every island has something special to offer.
Off Ishigaki Island your chances of seeing manta rays in September and October are excellent. At Yonaguni, people often see schools of hammerhead sharks. Schools of 100 or more often appear in the wintertime. You might also encounter a sea turtle, one of the world's rare and endangered species, or horse mackerel, Napoleon fish, barracuda or cuttlefish.
Okinawan waters rank high among divers and attract them from around the world. In order to really enjoy diving, get your "C-card" (basic open-water) certification so you can dive deeper. Dive shops will rent you tanks and equipment. You can also get certified in Okinawa. The number of people getting their C-card while vacationing in Okinawa is on the rise. The course lasts two days or more depending on your individual level and costs run between 20,000 and 70,000 yen.
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