Let's swim with sea turtles in Yakushima☆.
Excellent transparency! Spectacular snorkeling tour

屋久島でのシュノーケリング中に出会ったアオウミガメ。

Snorkeling is an easy and enjoyable marine activity where you dive into the ocean with a breathing tube called a snorkel in your mouth.

Easy to experience the world of the sea, even for first-timersThis is the most attractive aspect of snorkeling.

For those who...

◆Those who are looking for a tour to play in the sea of Yakushima
◆ those who want to swim with sea turtles
◆First-time snorkelers
◆Searching for snorkeling tours with children in Yakushima

This time,world natural heritage siteWe introduce the charm of snorkeling and recommended tours that you can experience in Yakushima.

Yakushima Activity, a specialized site for Yakushima, proudly introduces you to the island.

What is the attraction of snorkeling in Yakushima?

Guided tours for beginners

屋久島でシュノーケリングを満喫し、水中でピースサインを送る体験者。

Snorkeling is done in a wet suit,Even if you are not a good swimmerOh, my God! The body naturally floats puka puka puka puka ♪

Further,If you wear a snorkel, you do not need to hold your breath.Children and the elderly who are not confident in their physical strength can relax and enjoy the underwater scenery.

Wetsuits available for rent.
Visit ⬇︎ for snorkeling tours

Yakushima Island/3 hours】March〜November limited！OK from 5 years old☆Encounter rate 80% or more! Sea Turtle Snorkeling Tour *Free Photo & Movie (No.11)開始時間8:00 / 10:00 / 11:00 / 13:00 / 14:00 / 15:00 (March - October)所要時間Approx. 3 hours5,500 yen

What is the reason for the high rate of sea turtle encounters?

屋久島の海でウミガメと並走するシュノーケリングツアーの風景。

Not surprisingly,Yakushima is the largest sea turtle spawning ground in Japan!Sea turtles come ashore at Nagata Inaka Beach every year from May to July to lay eggs.

Also, because of the high probability of encountering sea turtles while snorkeling in the waters of Yakushima,Rare experience of swimming with sea turtleswill be able to

Each tour guide knows the pattern of appearance of sea turtles, and in many cases, the points are narrowed down according to wind, current, and time of day, so we have the know-how to "take you to the place where you are likely to meet".

Click here for ⬇︎ guided sea turtle snorkel tours

Yakushima Island/3 hours】May see sea turtles☆Easy snorkeling tour in the crystal clear ocean (No.80)開始時間9:00-12:00 / 13:00-16:00所要時間Approx. 3 hours5,500 yen

You can easily participate in the event with nothing in hand!

屋久島でのシュノーケリング体験を終えて笑顔でポーズをとる3人組。

For snorkeling, all you need is a snorkel, underwater glasses (goggles), and fins. All Yakushima tours include rental!

You only need to wear a bathing suit, a change of clothes and a bath towel!Even if you are not a good swimmer, experienced instructors will lead you through the course, so you can participate with confidence.

⬇︎For snorkeling tours where you don't need to bring your own gear, click here.

Yakushima Island / 1 Day] 70 years old and up OK! Let's spend the whole day playing!開始時間9:00-16:00所要時間Approx. 7 hours13,200 yen

Yakushima Snorkeling
Recommended Spots and Beaches

Ichiminato Beach (Motoura)

シュノーケリングスポットとして知られる屋久島の美しい砂浜と山の景色。

The area around Isso Beach is known as an excellent snorkeling spot.

The west side of the beach is shallow, clear, and unaffected by currents.Because of,Snorkeling for beginners is also available.

屋久島のシュノーケリングで見ることができる野生のアオウミガメ。

Also, Ichiminato-Motoura is located on the right side as seen from the parking lot. The bay-like shape and gentle tides make it ideal for snorkeling! Hide in the rocksVisitors can observe colorful small fish, green turtles, and a variety of other marine life.

Outline of Ichiminato Beach

◆Address: 2291-225 Ichiminato, Yakushima-cho, Kumage-gun, Kagoshima, 891-4203, Japan
Access: 15 minutes by car from Miyanoura Port
Facilities: beach house (meals, snorkel set and other rentals), free rest facilities, toilets, changing rooms, showers, free parking

⬇︎ for more information about Ichiminato Beach

Yakushima-Ichiminato Beach About Ichiminato Beach Ichiminato Beach is the largest beach in Yakushima, located in Ichiminato, Yakushima-cho, Kumage-gun, at the northern tip of Yakushima. It is about a 15-minute drive from Miyanoura Port, the sea gateway to Yakushima. It is wrapped by Yatosaki [...].

⬇︎For tours that are likely to be held at Ichiminato Beach, click here.

Yakushima Island/One-Day River Kayak & Snorkeling Tour (with free rental of underwater digital camera and lunch)開始時間9:00-16:00所要時間Approx. 7 hours13,200 yen

Haruta Beach

屋久島の海岸にあるシュノーケリングエリアの監視台と夕景。

Located on the largest raised coral reef coast of YakushimaHarutahama Nature Watching ReefVisitors can enjoy swimming and observing the flora and fauna at the

屋久島のシュノーケリングで観察できるハナダイなどの色鮮やかな魚。

Snorkeling is available in the swimming zoneで、タイドプール（潮だまり）では、色とりどりの熱帯魚やカニなどの海洋生物に出会いましょう♪

Outline of Harutahama Beach

◆Address: Awa, Yakushima-cho, Kumage-gun, Kagoshima, 891-4311, Japan
◆Access: 30 minutes by car from Miyanoura Port
Facilities: toilets, changing rooms, showers available

staying at a hot spring

屋久島でシュノーケリングの練習をする初心者。

This area is also known as tide pools,Calm tides make it safe for beginners.The area is ideal for snorkeling and swimming.

屋久島でのシュノーケリング後にリラックスできる、絶景の海岸露天風呂。

At the far end of the Yudomari embankmentA natural hot spring called "Yudomari Kainaka Onsenand a unique hot spring experience!

After enjoying swimming, why not warm up at Yudomari Haichu Onsen and enjoy the hot springs and sea throughout the day?

Yudomari Embankment Overview

◆Address: 1714-28 Yudomari, Yakushima-cho, Kumage-gun, Kagoshima, Japan 891-4407
◆Access: 50 minutes by car from Yakushima Airport
◆Facilities: Parking lot, short walk to Yudomari Hot Springs

⬇︎ for more information about Yudomari Hot Springs

Yakushima-Yudomari Onsen About Yudomari Hot Spring Yudomari Hot Spring is a hot spring full of wildness that deserves to be called a hidden hot spring even in Yakushima, where there are many hot springs. It is located in Yudomari, Yakushima-cho, Ke-gun, about 60 minutes by car from Miyanoura Port, the gateway to Yakushima's plum [...].

Yakushima Snorkeling Recommendations

You may see sea turtles☆.
Easy snorkeling tour

屋久島のシュノーケリングで間近に観察できるアオウミガメのアップ。

Half-day snorkeling tour with all necessary equipmentto the following.

Pick-up and drop-off services are also included, making this a great option for first-time visitors to Yakushima and snorkeling!

When snorkeling,Free rental service of digital cameras for underwater useis a great opportunity to capture the beautiful underwater scenery and colorful fish in your photos!

Reviews & Testimonials

I was healed by the colorful fish I encountered in the sea. I was happy to see that the environment was safe even for beginners, and that even a single woman could enjoy the experience.

Reviews & Testimonials

It was my first time snorkeling and I was worried, but the instructor was very supportive and made me feel at ease. It was fantastic to see sea turtles in the ocean! However, it would have been better if there were more fish. Still, I am very satisfied!

Yakushima Island/3 hours】May see sea turtles☆Easy snorkeling tour in the crystal clear ocean (No.80)開始時間9:00-12:00 / 13:00-16:00所要時間Approx. 3 hours5,500 yen

Participation is possible up to age 70!
Trekking & Snorkeling Tour

屋久島のシュノーケリングで見られるウミガメと、苔むす森や渓流を組み合わせた紹介。

Includes 3 hours trekking and snorkelingThis special one-day plan is the perfect way to enjoy the nature of Yakushima to the fullest.

You can enjoy the charms of both the forest and the sea in one day at thisThe plan is ideal for experiencing the nature of Yakushima!

In snorkelingsea turtleYou may be able to meet

Reviews & Testimonials

The best of both worlds: a full day of fun in both the mountains and the ocean. Transportation and meal arrangements were included and made the experience very smooth. I would recommend this tour to outdoor beginners.

Reviews & Testimonials

I joined the trekking and snorkeling with my family. We were beginners at both, but the guides were very attentive and easy to understand, and we were able to enjoy the nature of Yakushima very much! Thank you very much!

白谷雲水峡トレッキング＆シュノーケリング1日ツアー《お弁当付き・水中デジカメ無料貸出あり》（No.3）のアイキャッチ

Shiratani Unsui Gorge Trekking & Snorkeling Tour with Lunch Box & Pick-up Service (No.3)開始時間9:00-16:00所要時間Approx. 7 hours14,850 yen

Enjoy both the ocean and the river!
Snorkeling x Kayak Tour

屋久島のアクティビティ。シュノーケリングと合わせて楽しみたいリバーカヤック体験。

Enjoy the nature of Yakushima all day long with snorkeling and kayaking!

All necessary equipment is provided by the guide.You can change into clothes that you don't mind getting wet.Simply assemble.The appeal of this system is the ease of use.

On the water,Beautiful valley surrounded by a forest of shiny-leaved treesand underwater, including sea turtles.Encounters with many sea creaturesPlease enjoy the

Reviews & Testimonials

This is a luxurious plan that includes both kayaking and snorkeling. We were blessed with good weather and were able to enjoy the nature of Yakushima with all of our being. Lunch was also delicious.

Reviews & Testimonials

From the time I made the reservation to the day of the event, we communicated via email and were very courteous. They explained everything in a way that even first-timers could understand and felt comfortable. The snorkeling was very enjoyable as we saw sea turtles and schools of fish. The guide was very calm and easy to deal with. The lunch we had on the way was very tasty. The kayaking was very relaxing. The water was clean but cold compared to the ocean, so we couldn't drown ourselves. The guide was very calm and gave us detailed information and trivia when we asked questions. I would ask him again if I have the chance to participate in another tour. Thank you very much!

Yakushima Island/One-Day River Kayak & Snorkeling Tour (with free rental of underwater digital camera and lunch)開始時間9:00-16:00所要時間Approx. 7 hours13,200 yen

Yakushima Snorkeling
Recommended tours with children

Ages 5 and up are welcome to participate☆.
Sea Turtle Snorkeling Tour

屋久島の透き通る海でウミガメと並走するシュノーケリング体験の様子。

Ages 5 and up can participate.Sea turtle encounter rate of 801 TP3T or moreOngoing snorkeling tours!

For groups including persons 65 years of age or older or families with children under elementary school age,reservationYou can participate with peace of mind, as we can accommodate you in the following ways

This 3-hour tour is available on the day of arrival, the day of departure, or in your spare time.easilyIt is also a great way to enjoy the sea of Yakushima!

Reviews & Testimonials

Even as a beginner, I was happy to see the beautiful ocean and sea turtles! I forgot to take anti-sickness medicine and got wave-sick, but they were very supportive and reassuring. I was very satisfied with the service, including a shower after the tour!

Reviews & Testimonials

We joined this tour because we were told that there was a high chance of encountering sea turtles. The sea was calm and easy to swim, and both children and adults enjoyed the tour. Photos and videos are also free of charge, which is a nice feature.

Ages 6 and up are welcome to participate☆.
SUP x Snorkel Tour

屋久島でのSUPやシュノーケリングを楽しむ様子をまとめた4枚のコラージュ写真。

You can enjoy SUP and snorkeling all day long in the World Heritage Sea,Lunch includedThis is a luxury tour of the

High encounter rateThe sea turtles, which boast a population of more than 1.5 million, and a wide variety of tropical fish, some of the largest in Japan, can be seen swimming in the crystal clear waters.

Enjoy a relaxing walk on the water on a stable SUP board and experience the rich nature unique to Yakushima.

Reviews & Testimonials

This SUP & snorkeling tour was a great day to enjoy Yakushima Island in its entirety! It was my first time to SUP, but thanks to the careful instruction by the guide, I was able to enjoy the tour without any worries. The tour is open to people up to 70 years old, so the whole family can enjoy the tour together. A packed lunch was included in the tour, and we were able to fully enjoy the beautiful nature of Yakushima on this day. If you come to Yakushima, you should definitely join this tour!

Yakushima Island / 1 Day] 70 years old and up OK! Let's spend the whole day playing!開始時間9:00-16:00所要時間Approx. 7 hours13,200 yen

What to wear and bring for Yakushima snorkeling

屋久島のシュノーケリングツアーで使用するマスク、スノーケル、フィンの器材一式。

basicallyswimsuitAll you need is a snorkeling gear (fin, mask, wetsuit, life jacket, etc.)! Other equipment necessary for snorkeling (fins, mask, wetsuit, life jacket) are included in the tour fee.

If you want to go sightseeing directly after the tour, bring a bath towel and a change of clothes☆.

Recommended Clothing and Personal Belongings

◆Swimsuit or clothing that can get wet
◆ Rush Guard
◆Spats (leggings, trenchers, etc.)
◆Sun protection (hats and sunglasses)

In winter, when the water temperature is low, we recommend wearing a rash guard under your wetsuit☆.

Points to note for snorkeling in Yakushima

屋久島でのシュノーケリング中にウミガメと一緒に記念撮影をする参加者。

Yakushima is a popular snorkeling spot for its "crystal clear waters" and "an island where you can swim with sea turtles," but to enjoy the beautiful naturesafety measureandEnvironmental Protection Awarenessis essential.

Here is a brief summary of what to expect when enjoying snorkeling in Yakushima.

1. check the weather and tides

The sea of Yakushima depends on the location.The tide is running fast.areaThere are

The Ichiminato and Shidoko areas in particular are popular spots, but beginners shouldAccompanied by a local guideis recommended.

Check the weather forecast and wave information before departure, and on days with strong winds and swellstake it easyMake sure to do so.

2. keep a safe distance from sea turtles

One of the attractions of Yakushima is "the experience of swimming with sea turtles," but if you get too closestressIt will give the

More than 2 metersThe rule is to keep the distance of the two and not to touch or chase them.

And when you take a picture.Natural distanceBe aware of the following

3. be mindful of actions that protect the environment

Some of the waters of Yakushima are designated as national park areas.

Be careful not to destroy corals and other living creatures, and sunscreen is environmentally friendly.non-chemicalChoose the type.

Garbage.Always bring backIt is good manners to

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Yakushima Snorkeling

Q. Can anyone snorkel?

Snorkeling is a leisure activity in which visitors use a breathing tube called a snorkel to observe what is going on underwater while floating on the surface. Therefore, it can be enjoyed by people of all ages, from those who are not good swimmers and small children to seniors.

Q. At what age can I experience snorkeling?

Yakushima Tours offers snorkeling tours for people from elementary school to 70 years old. The tours are designed to be enjoyable for multiple generations in terms of content and difficulty.

Depending on the age of participation, a private charter may be recommended for safety and privacy. Therefore, it is advisable to check with the store in advance to select the best plan.

Q. Do snorkelers breathe in through their nose?

In snorkeling, snorkelers use snorkels and breathe through their mouths. Care should be taken to avoid breathing through the nose. Breathing through the nose can cause the mask to fog up or create a gap between the mask and the face, allowing water to enter.

When breathing, the key is to "breathe in slowly and loudly and exhale slowly" as in deep breathing. Since snorkeling is often done near the surface of the water, it is important to relax and control your breathing. If you are new to snorkeling, be aware of your breathing and try to breathe calmly until you get used to it.

Q. Do I need a license to snorkel?

No certification is required and there are no age restrictions, making it ideal for families and friends. If you have any concerns, join a tour with an experienced guide for a more comfortable snorkeling experience.

Q. When is the best season for snorkeling?

The sea surrounding Yakushima is characterized by high sea water temperatures due to the Kuroshio Current, a warm current from the south. Therefore, the best time for diving and snorkeling is considered to be from May to October.

Those who are more tolerant of the cold can also dive in a bit colder weather by wearing a wetsuit. In fact, it is possible to enjoy the winter season as well, as it can be warmer in the ocean in winter.

Q. I have never snorkeled before.

Of course it's okay.
Our guides will give you a detailed lecture and guide you safely so that even beginners can enjoy themselves. Even if you are not a confident swimmer, please feel free to join us.

Q. Can I snorkel on my own without taking a tour?

Although it is possible to do this on your own in some locations, we strongly recommend that you join a tour for safety reasons.
During the tour, the guide will give you a thorough explanation of the sea conditions and warnings about dangerous creatures, and will respond quickly in case of an emergency. Please use our tours for a safe and enjoyable experience.

Q. Can I see sea turtles?

Although not 100% guaranteed, we will take you to points where you have a high probability of encountering sea turtles.
Please note, however, that some plans may not have sea turtle observation as their main purpose.

Q. What safety measures are taken during the tour?

Each tour/shop has thorough safety measures in place to ensure that everyone can participate safely.
All participants are required to wear life jackets, and a guide will always be with you to provide support. In addition, we conduct our tours after thoroughly checking the sea conditions and weather, so first-timers do not need to worry.

Yakushima Tours the day before and the day of the tour!

屋久島のシュノーケリング体験で出会える野生のアオウミガメと泳ぐ様子。

In Yakushima ToursLast-minute reservations on the day before or the day of the event are also available.Please feel free to contact us!

For example...

◆I want to go snorkeling by myself.
I want to do snorkeling and trekking together.

Please feel free to contact us if you have any requests such as We will do our best to accommodate your request!

Why don't you go snorkeling to see shining corals and a variety of fishes?

→Click here to contact us.

New Yakushima Snorkeling Tour Testimonials

Yakushima Island/3 hours】March〜November limited！OK from 5 years old☆Encounter rate 80% or more! Sea Turtle Snorkeling Tour *Free Photo & Movie (No.11)

Nankichi-san / 50s Posted on 2026-04

It was great to see the sea turtles. We had plenty of time to spend with the turtles. The explanation before we started snorkeling was fun and well done, and I never felt uneasy. Thank you very much.

Yakushima Island/3 hours】March〜November limited！OK from 5 years old☆Encounter rate 80% or more! Sea Turtle Snorkeling Tour *Free Photo & Movie (No.11)

Mom of 3 sisters / 40s Posted on 2026-03

A week before I made the reservation, I called to confirm my belongings and found out that the scheduled date was off by one day (my complete mistake). I immediately contacted the person who made the subsequent reservation to change the date, and by rescheduling, we were able to participate in the tour without incident. （Thank you so much to the person who made the subsequent reservation and to the guide.) On the day of the tour, we were five beginners (my husband, myself, and three daughters: a high school student, a junior high school student, and an elementary school student). The advance explanations were very detailed, and we were told in an amusing way what not to do. The day before, we went to the Jomon cedars, and although it took a lot of effort at first because of my busted up body, all five of us were able to snorkel without incident. We were able to observe sea turtles closely and even met Nemo, and the kids were so impressed that they wanted to go back. We were given hot tea after snorkeling and coffee after showering, which made all three of my daughters comfortable even though the sea was not very familiar to them. I would give this experience a 5 star recommendation. The price is great for this experience! I really enjoyed it! Thank you very much.

Yakushima Island/One-Day River Kayak & Snorkeling Tour (with free rental of underwater digital camera and lunch)

User_glox / 30s Posted on 2026-02

I was alone, but the guides were so friendly and enlivening in both river kayaking and snorkeling that I had no time to feel lonely! In the ocean, I was able to swim with sea turtles and enjoy the nature of Yakushima with all my body.

Yakushima Island/3 hours】May see sea turtles☆Easy snorkeling tour in the crystal clear ocean (No.80)

User_jmrw / 20s Posted on 2026-02

The transparency of the sea was outstanding and it was picturesque no matter where you took pictures! We were also able to rent a camera for free, so we were very happy to be able to take many great pictures with sea turtles.

Yakushima Island/3 hours】March〜November limited！OK from 5 years old☆Encounter rate 80% or more! Sea Turtle Snorkeling Tour *Free Photo & Movie (No.11)

User_nkfa / 20s Posted on 2025-12

I was amazed at the clarity of the water as soon as I entered the ocean. They guide us at a distance that does not disturb the movement of the sea turtles, so we can observe them calmly. I was also happy to receive photo data.

Yakushima Island/3 hours】March〜November limited！OK from 5 years old☆Encounter rate 80% or more! Sea Turtle Snorkeling Tour *Free Photo & Movie (No.11)

User_nihr / 30s Posted on 2025-12

The guide's explanation was easy to understand and we were able to enjoy the sea of Yakushima. We were able to see beautiful fish and sea turtles on the day of the tour, which gave us very good memories. Thank you very much.