Diving & Snorkeling Around Hakodate | Exploring Hokkaido's Underwater World

The waters around Hakodate are attractive diving spots with unique marine life that can only be encountered in cold seawater and high transparency during summer. In this area surrounded by the Tsugaru Strait and Mount Hakodate, underwater experiences await that are as impressive as those on land. Trial diving allows even non-swimmers to enjoy underwater walks with instructor support, and snorkeling is accessible to small children. Plans combining both sea and land activities with Mount Hakodate sightseeing are popular.

Beginner-Friendly Trial Diving

Even without a diving license, you can easily enjoy the underwater world through trial diving. At diving shops around Hakodate, trial diving at popular nearby diving points costs 10,000 to 16,000 yen per person. The total time is about 3-4 hours, following this flow: land-based instruction (about 1 hour) → shallow water practice (about 30 minutes) → underwater diving (about 30-40 minutes). The maximum depth is 12m, and with an instructor always by your side, even beginners can feel safe. Participants must be 10 years or older and complete health condition documentation.

Family-Friendly Snorkeling Experience

For those who want to peek into the sea more casually, snorkeling is recommended. Rates are affordable at 3,000 to 5,000 yen per person, with a duration of about 1.5 to 2 hours. You can enjoy observing diverse fish and marine life inhabiting local waters from the surface. Rental of mask, snorkel, and fins is included in the price, and wearing a wetsuit (+1,000 to 2,000 yen) provides buoyancy, making it safe for those who aren't strong swimmers. Family plans are available for ages 6 and up, perfect for creating summer vacation memories. The season runs from June to October, with August to September being best for both water temperature and transparency.

Fun Dives for License Holders

For license holders, fun dives at authentic diving points around Hakodate are recommended. The attraction lies in cold-water marine life like clio and sea slugs that can only be encountered during the short summer season. Two dives typically cost 12,000 to 20,000 yen, with boat dives adding an extra 3,000 to 5,000 yen. Full equipment rental costs 5,000 to 8,000 yen, while those bringing their own equipment can use equipment washing facilities for free.

Diving License Certification Course

It's also possible to obtain a diving license (C-card) during your stay in Hakodate. The PADI Open Water Diver course takes 3 days and costs 50,000 to 70,000 yen (including theory, pool training, ocean training, materials, and equipment rental). Local instructors who know the waters thoroughly will support your safe and enjoyable license acquisition. While there's a minimum 2-day intensive course, the 3-day course with more time is recommended for better skill retention. After obtaining your license, you'll be able to dive in oceans worldwide, greatly expanding your diving horizons. Completing theory instruction online beforehand allows you to focus on practical skills on-site.

Safely Enjoying Marine Activities

Here are important notes for participating in diving and snorkeling. Daily health management is most crucial - avoid participating the day after drinking or when sleep-deprived. Bring swimwear, towels, change of clothes, and sunscreen (reef-safe products recommended). During colder periods, dry suit use is recommended, with rental fees of +2,000 to 3,000 yen. After diving, you cannot board aircraft for 12-18 hours, so avoid scheduling diving on your trip's final day. Reservations can be made through official diving shop websites, and summer vacation seasons can fill up a month in advance. It takes about 20 minutes by car from Hakodate Airport to the city center and about 20 minutes from Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto Station to Hakodate by shinkansen. Plans with transportation to diving points are convenient.