Today We Went River Diving in Search of the Japanese Giant Salamander
Typhoon No. 13 brought rough sea conditions to Kushimoto, so all ocean diving tours have been suspended from today through August 8.
But that doesn’t mean the adventure has to stop.
Today, we headed to the crystal-clear Kozagawa River to enjoy a unique river diving experience in search of the Japanese giant salamander (Andrias japonicus).
Kozagawa flows through the town next to Kushimoto and is known as one of Japan’s most beautiful clear rivers.
Today’s conditions were excellent, with a water temperature of 20.8°C and visibility of more than 20 meters.
The river level was unusually low today, allowing the crystal-clear water to look even more spectacular.
This photo was taken without using any dive lights.
The water was so clear that sunlight reached deep into the river, creating beautiful natural colors.
The scenery looked almost like a painting.
But today’s real goal wasn’t just enjoying the beautiful river.
We were searching for the Japanese giant salamander.
Recent flooding changed some of the riverbed and damaged several of their favorite hiding places, so every dive becomes a new search.
Fortunately, we found a large Japanese giant salamander almost immediately after entering the water.
It stayed in the open long enough for everyone to enjoy a great view of its face, and our guests were thrilled.
We also managed to photograph one of our favorite features—its adorable little hands.
They are probably our favorite part of this amazing animal.
Because the Japanese giant salamander is a nationally protected species in Japan, touching it is strictly prohibited.
We can only admire it from a respectful distance in its natural habitat.
Later in the dive, we found another individual, making it another successful day of river diving.
While searching for the Japanese giant salamander, we also enjoyed observing freshwater fish.
Kozagawa is home to Amago, Ayu, Oikawa, and Yoshinobori, making it a great destination for freshwater macro photography as well.
Although the river has remained cooler than usual this summer, the hot weather makes the water feel refreshingly comfortable.
River diving for the Japanese giant salamander is very different from ocean diving.
We walk along the riverbank between different habitats and carefully search each area underwater.
It takes a little more effort than a typical dive, but the excitement of finally finding one makes every step worthwhile.
Because these animals live in the wild, sightings can never be guaranteed.
However, if you’re looking for a unique diving experience in Japan, we highly recommend exploring the crystal-clear Kozagawa River.
Even when the ocean in Kushimoto is too rough for diving, a completely different underwater world is waiting just nearby.
Come and experience one of Japan’s most unique freshwater diving adventures with us.
Today’s Sea Conditions
- Weather: Cloudy→Sunny
- Air Temperature: 26–30°C
- Water Temperature: 20.8℃
- Visibility: About 20m
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Recommended Exposure Protection
- 5mm wetsuit
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Announcements
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◾️Event information
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- 5mm wetsuit
