Diving in Izu Islands and Ogasawara Islands

Formed by an erupting submarine mountain range, the Izu and Ogasawara Islands are as beautiful topside as they are underwater. The Izu Islands are easily accessed from the mainland with daily boat, plane, and helicopter departures, while the Ogasawara Islands are much more remote and only accessible by a day-long ferry ride with only weekly departures. The travel is worth it, however, as there are many endemic species to see along with amazing WWII wreck dives. You can also dive with thresher and hammerhead sharks, sea turtles, and, in Ogasawara and Mikurajima, 200 wild dolphins.