Name: Yakushima Snorkeling Tour
Brand: Yakushima Activities
SKU: snorkelling
Rating: 4.86 (230 reviews)

A woman enjoying snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters off Yakushima.

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

A green sea turtle I encountered while snorkeling on Yakushima.

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 Snorkeling Tour
Compare All 6 Plans

There are a total of six snorkeling tour packages available for booking through Yakushima Activities.Duration, Age Requirements, Content, and BenefitsWe've listed them in order of the highest number of reservations so you can compare them at a glance.

1st PlaceNo. 11 Sea Turtle Snorkeling

the time requiredApprox. 3 hours

Age RequirementAges 5 and up

ContentsSnorkeling (Available March–November Only)

Bonus FeaturesSea Turtle Sighting Rate: 801 TP3T or higher / Free Photos and Videos

2nd placeNo. 80: Easy Snorkeling

the time requiredApprox. 3 hours

Age RequirementAges 6 to 70

Contentssnorkeling

Bonus FeaturesShuttle service included / Free camera rental / Showers and changing rooms available

3rd placeNo. 6 River Kayaking & Snorkeling

the time requiredApprox. 7 hours

Age RequirementAges 6–70 (private rentals for those 65 and older)

ContentsRiver Kayaking + Snorkeling

Bonus FeaturesLunch included / Free rental of underwater digital cameras

4th placeNo. 3 Shiratani Unsui Gorge Hiking & Snorkeling

the time requiredApprox. 7 hours

Age RequirementAges 6–70 (Private rental rates apply for those 65 and older)

ContentsHiking + Snorkeling

Bonus FeaturesIncludes a packed lunch and transportation

5th placeNo. 13 SUP & Snorkeling

the time requiredApprox. 7 hours

Age RequirementAges 6 to 70

ContentsSUP + Snorkeling

Bonus FeaturesIncludes a boxed lunch / Free rental of an underwater digital camera

6th placeNo. 112: Private Snorkeling Tour with a Certified Guide

the time requiredHalf a day

Age RequirementAges 10–59 (High school students and younger must be accompanied by an adult)

ContentsPrivate Snorkeling Tour

Bonus FeaturesCertified Guide / Free 360-Degree Camera Photo

*Ranked by popularity based on booking data for Yakushima activities (October 2024–August 2026). Please check the individual plan pages for pricing and the latest availability information.

No. 1, "Sea Turtle Snorkeling" (No. 11), was the most popular snorkeling reservation during that period.About 80 percentIt accounts for [...], and is the second most popular tour in terms of bookings among all Yakushima activity plans. If you're not sure which one to choose, we recommend starting with this plan.

Recommended Plans by Purpose

◆If you're interested in sea turtles or traveling with children (ages 5 and up), then→No. 11
◆If you're looking for something quick and easy with transportation included →No. 80
◆If you want to enjoy both the river and the ocean →No. 6
◆If you want to enjoy both the mountains and the ocean in a single day →No. 3
◆If you'd like to try SUP too →No. 13
◆If you'd like to book the venue exclusively for an all-adult group →No. 112

What is the attraction of snorkeling in Yakushima?

Guided tours for beginners

A participant enjoying snorkeling on Yakushima and giving a peace sign underwater.

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?

A scene from a snorkeling tour where participants swim alongside sea turtles in the waters off Yakushima.

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!

A group of three posing with smiles after finishing their snorkeling experience on Yakushima.

All you need for snorkeling is a three-piece set: a snorkel, goggles, and fins. All snorkeling tours bookable through Yakushima Activities include equipment 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)

The beautiful sandy beaches and mountain scenery of Yakushima, known as a snorkeling spot.

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,Even beginners can enjoy snorkeling with peace of mind! ♪

Wild green sea turtles that can be seen while snorkeling on Yakushima.

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
*Showers and changing rooms are available only during swimming hours while the beach is open (typically mid-July through late August). Beach huts are also open only during the summer.

⬇︎ 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

A watchtower at a snorkeling spot along the coast of Yakushima and the sunset view.

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

Colorful fish, such as the red snapper, that can be seen while snorkeling on Yakushima.

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

A beginner practicing snorkeling on Yakushima.

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

A scenic coastal open-air bath where you can relax after snorkeling on Yakushima.

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
◆Directions: About a 60-minute drive from Miyanoura Port (about 50 minutes 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 [...].

Snorkeling on your own on Yakushima is
Is It Possible? Rental Guidelines

On Yakushima, without joining a tour,You can also go snorkeling on your ownThat's right. However, since there aren't as many well-equipped beaches as there are on Okinawa's outlying islands, be sure to keep the following points in mind beforehand.

Lifeguards are stationed only at Ichiminato Beach during the summer.

According to Yakushima Town, the swimming season at Ichiminato Beach isUsually from mid-July to late AugustSupervisors will be on duty from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. during this period.

There are no lifeguards on duty outside of the designated season or at rocky spots such as Motoura. Also, at Ichikuchi Beach,The water suddenly gets deeperTherefore, those who are not confident swimmers and those with children should be especially careful.

Equipment rentals are often available only during the summer.

The beach houses at Ichiminato Beach are open only during the summer, and their operating days are irregular.At other times, you'll need to bring your own equipment or join a tour.That's for sure.

On our snorkeling tours, the price includes a mask, snorkel, fins, wetsuit, and life jacket, so you can join the tour empty-handed.

Points to Keep in Mind When Enjoying It on Your Own

Things to Check Before Snorkeling on Your Own

◆Do not go into the ocean alone; always go with others.
◆ Wear a life jacket (a wetsuit alone may not be enough)
◆To prevent injuries on rocky terrain, bring gloves and water shoes.
◆Check the waves, wind, and tide levels, and if you have even the slightest concern, do not go in.
◆Do not get within 2 meters of sea turtles, and do not touch them.

The differences between independent travel and group tours are as follows.

(data) item	For personal enjoyment	Take a tour
Equipment	Bring your own, or rent one at a beach house (summer only)	All prices include taxesNo need to bring your own clothes
safety	Lifeguards are stationed only at Ichiminato Beach during the summer.	A guide is always with you
Choosing Points	Assess the waves, wind, and tides on your own	Depending on the sea conditions that day, the guide will...Choose a Safe Place
sea turtle	Whether we'll meet depends on luck	A guide that explains the appearance patterns (No. 11 isEncounter rate: 801 TP3T or higher)
Photo	You'll need to bring a waterproof camera.	Free Photos & CamerasPlans available

If this is your first time visiting the waters off Yakushima, if you’re determined to see sea turtles, or if you’re traveling with children, a guided tour is your best bet.

⬇︎ Click here for tours with a sea turtle sighting rate of 801 TP3T or higher

Yakushima Snorkeling
Best Season and Water Temperature

Snorkeling on Yakushima is,July through September, when water temperature and visibility increase due to the Kuroshio Currentis the best season. According to booking data for activities on Yakushima, about 60 percent of snorkeling reservations are concentrated in these three months.

Monthly Water Temperature Guidelines and Characteristics

Time	Water Temperature Guidelines	feature
March	Around 20°C	Some tours, such as the Sea Turtle Snorkeling Tour (No. 11), have begun. Be sure to dress warmly on chilly days.
April–May	20–24°C	The beach season kicks off around Golden Week. You can enjoy it comfortably by wearing a wetsuit.
June	22–26°C	It's the rainy season, when it rains a lot. If the sea is calm, events often go ahead even when it's raining.
July–September	27–30°C	The Kuroshio Current turns the ocean a deep blue. It’s the best season for both water clarity and temperature (watch out for typhoons).
October–November	25–29°C	Water temperatures are still high, making this a great time to go before the crowds die down. It can get a bit chilly on land some days.
December–February	Around 18–20°C	This is a time when event options are limited. If you plan to attend, be sure to dress warmly.

*Water temperatures vary depending on the year and the conditions of the Kuroshio Current. These figures are approximate guidelines based on data published by local dive shops.

Popular Months Based on Reservation Data

We've broken down the monthly distribution of snorkeling reservations for Yakushima activities (October 2024–August 2026) by month for each year.

March5.5%

April6.4%

May10.4%

June6.0%

July18.8%

August23.5%

September15.9%

October8.1%

November4.6%

December–February0.7%

About 60 percent of the total came from July through September aloneThere are also a few small mountains to climb in May, including during Golden Week. Since they tend to fill up quickly during peak seasons, we recommend booking early once you've finalized your dates.

On the other hand, from October through November, water temperatures are still high, and the number of reservations drops off, so,A great choice for those who want to take it easy and enjoy themselvesIt is.

⬇︎Click here for sea turtle snorkeling tours held from March through November

Yakushima Snorkeling Recommendations

You may see sea turtles☆.
Easy snorkeling tour

A close-up of a green sea turtle that you can observe up close while snorkeling on Yakushima.

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

An introduction to the sea turtles you can see while snorkeling on Yakushima, combined with the island’s moss-covered forests and mountain streams.

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!

Featured Image for the Shiratani Unsuikyo Trekking & Snorkeling 1-Day Tour 《Includes a Boxed Lunch & Free Underwater Digital Camera Rental》 (No. 3)

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

Activities on Yakushima. A river kayaking experience to enjoy alongside snorkeling.

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!

Reviews and Testimonials (30s, Attended Alone / February 2026)

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.

Reviews and Testimonials (40s, with children / February 2026)

I joined the tour with my child, and both the river and the sea were calm and safe. It was fun and adventurous to kayak through the forest, and my child was thrilled to see sea turtles while snorkeling.

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

A Relaxing Time Just for Adults☆
Private Snorkeling Tour with a Certified Guide

Led by a certified Yakushima guide,Group Private BookingsThis is a half-day snorkeling tour.

Since you can swim at your own pace without worrying about other participants, it’s perfect for couples or groups of friends traveling together. During the tour,Photos taken with a 360-degree cameraYou'll receive it as a gift.

Participants must be between the ages of 10 and 59 (high school students and younger must be accompanied by an adult).

Yakushima/Half Day】Snorkeling experience in the crystal clear ocean☆A certified guide will take you to the underwater world of excitement 《Private use, 360 degree camera photo present》（No.112）.開始時間9:00 / 13:00所要時間Approx. 2.5 hours7,700 yen

Yakushima Snorkeling
Recommended tours with children

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

A glimpse of a snorkeling experience where you swim alongside sea turtles in the crystal-clear waters of Yakushima.

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

A collage of four photos showing people enjoying SUP and snorkeling on Yakushima.

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

A complete set of equipment—including a mask, snorkel, and fins—used on snorkeling tours in Yakushima.

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)

When the water is cold, we recommend wearing a rash guard under your wetsuit☆

Points to note for snorkeling in Yakushima

A participant taking a commemorative photo with a sea turtle while snorkeling on Yakushima.

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

While there are calm areas, such as the western side of Ichikuchi Beach and Motoura, the currents can become strong outside the bay and around the cape. Even at popular spots like Ichikuchi and Shitoko, conditions can vary greatly depending on sea conditions, so 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

A Look at the Data!
Booking Trends for Snorkeling on Yakushima

Based on our booking history for Yakushima activities and the results of our customer surveys, we’ve compiled a list of key points you should know before making a reservation.

About 30 percent of popular tours are fully booked

The Sea Turtle Snorkeling tour (No. 11), which ranks first in the number of reservations, saw the following among bookings made from October 2024 through August 2026:We were unable to accommodate approximately 30% of requests due to full capacity and other reasons.The following is a list of the most common problems with the "C" in the "C" column.

Bookings tend to fill up quickly, especially in July and August and during Golden Week. Once you’ve finalized your travel plans, be sure to check availability right away.

More than 90 percent of visitors are visiting Yakushima for the first time.

According to a survey of participants in Yakushima activities (110 respondents),This is 91%'s first trip to Yakushimawas the response. Most customers—96%—found our site through a web search and made a reservation.

Results of the Yakushima Activities Participant Survey

◆First-time trip to Yakushima: 91%
◆Respondents who rated this site as “easy to use” or “very easy to use”: 73%
◆I would like to use this site (including sister sites) again: 92%
◆Reasons for choosing this site (multiple answers allowed): The site is easy to use (52%), it provides detailed local information (45%), and it has a wealth of user reviews (19%)

In addition, participants in Yakushima activities68% booked the tour more than a month before the tripThat's right. Since popular dates fill up quickly, it's a good idea to book your tour early along with your flights and accommodations.

→Click here for the ranking of popular tours on Yakushima←

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 you start snorkeling?

Yakushima Activities offers a variety of options, including sea turtle snorkeling (No. 11), which is open to participants ages 5 and up; plans (No. 80, No. 3, No. 6, and No. 13) suitable for ages 6 to 70; and as well as a private charter plan (No. 112) for participants aged 10–59. The eligible age range varies by plan, so please check the comparison table above or the individual plan pages for details.

For groups that include people aged 65 or older, or families with children under elementary school age, we may recommend booking the entire facility for safety reasons. It’s best to check with the shop in advance to choose the plan that works best for you.

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 license or certification is required for snorkeling. It’s a casual activity that families and groups of friends can enjoy together. However, since each tour has specific age requirements, please check the participation requirements for each plan before making a reservation. If you have any concerns, joining a tour led by an experienced guide will help you enjoy a more worry-free snorkeling experience.

Q. When is the best season for snorkeling?

The waters surrounding Yakushima are characterized by high sea temperatures due to the influence of the Kuroshio Current, a warm current flowing from the south. The best time for snorkeling is from May to October, with July through September—when water temperatures reach around 27–30°C—being the peak season. Among Yakushima’s activities, about 60 percent of snorkeling reservations are concentrated in July through September.

Our popular Sea Turtle Snorkeling tour (No. 11) is available only from March through November. Since the number of available tours is limited during the winter months, please check the operating periods on each tour’s page.

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?

You can enjoy swimming on your own at locations such as Ichikura Beach. However, lifeguards are on duty only during the swimming season at Ichikura Beach (typically mid-July through late August), from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.; there are no lifeguards at other times or at rocky areas.
If you're a first-timer or traveling with young children, we recommend joining a tour where the guide will assess the ocean conditions to select a safe spot and provide all the necessary equipment.

Q. Can I rent snorkeling gear?

The snorkeling tours available for booking through Yakushima Activities include a mask, snorkel, fins, wetsuit, and life jacket—all of which are included in the price.
If you're visiting on your own, keep in mind that the beach huts at Ichikuchi Beach are open only during the summer and on an irregular basis, so it's best to bring your own equipment during other times of the year.

Q. By when should I make a reservation?

We recommend making your reservation as soon as possible once the schedule is finalized. For the popular Sea Turtle Snorkeling tour (No. 11), approximately 30% of requests cannot be accommodated due to the tour being fully booked; spots tend to fill up quickly, especially during July and August and the Golden Week holiday period. However, if space is available, reservations can be made the day before or on the day of the tour.

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.

The day before and the day of the tour, Yakushima Activities will be available!

Swimming with wild green sea turtles during a snorkeling experience on Yakushima.

At Yakushima Activities,Last-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】May see sea turtles☆Easy snorkeling tour in the crystal clear ocean (No.80)

User_vysg / 20s Posted: September 2026

It was seriously the best lol. The ocean was crystal clear and so beautiful. I finally got to see the sea turtles I’d been dreaming of, and I was so excited! The free camera rental was a total godsend. It was also a huge help that there was a proper place to change clothes~

Shiratani Unsui Gorge Trekking & Snorkeling Tour with Lunch Box & Pick-up Service (No.3)

User_axho / 20s Posted: September 2026

I was right. Taipa is the best—you can do both hiking and snorkeling there. The bento was delicious, too, so I’m really satisfied. If I had to say one thing, though, I guess I’m a little tired.

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

User_gtnk / 30s Posted: September 2026

Everything went smoothly. I got to see sea turtles while snorkeling, and the guide handled everything efficiently, so I was able to enjoy myself without any stress. It was convenient to be able to use the showers and changing rooms—it made things so much easier. I’ll definitely use this service again.

Shiratani Unsui Gorge Trekking & Snorkeling Tour with Lunch Box & Pick-up Service (No.3)

User_nuke / 30s Posted: September 2026

I wasn’t confident in my physical stamina, and before we left, I was constantly worried about whether I could handle both mountain and ocean activities in a single day. But thanks to the guide’s attentive support, even a beginner like me was able to manage just fine. I was soothed by the beautiful scenery of the Spirit Forest, and I even got to see fish while snorkeling. I’m really glad I took the plunge and joined the tour. The boxed lunch was delicious, too, and it made all my everyday stress melt away.

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

User_caij / 30s Posted: September 2026

If you're looking to go snorkeling in the waters off Yakushima, I highly recommend this tour! You'll get to swim alongside fish and sea turtles in crystal-clear waters—it's sure to be an unforgettable experience♪ You can rent cameras for free, so you can take plenty of great photos on your own, and there are even shower facilities—they've really thought of everything! Be sure to give it a try on your next trip☆

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_xcao / 50s Posted: September 2026

I think it offers good value for the price. I really appreciate the high chance of seeing sea turtles, the smooth snorkeling experience, and the free photo service. However, if I had to nitpick, I felt a bit chilly after getting out of the water, so I recommend bringing a towel or something to wrap around yourself right away. Overall, I’m satisfied with the service.