Ｓｈａｒｋ　Ｅｙｅ

Located in the heart of the Izu Peninsula, SHARK EYE provides a gateway to some of Japan's most iconic diving environments. The centre operates as an 'urban' school, with administrative offices in town and departures to the water on weekends, making it accessible for those travelling from the Kanto or Tokai regions.

The surrounding waters of Izu are celebrated globally for their variety, ranging from the sheltered, sandy bays of the west to the high-energy, current-swept reefs of the south. Whether you are looking to explore the deep walls of Ito or the macro-rich sites of the west coast, the area offers a diverse curriculum of underwater landscapes.

The centre is led by Katsuzo Sugiyama, an SSI and PADI Master Instructor with 25 years of experience and a personal log of approximately 10,000 dives. This depth of experience is central to the school's philosophy, which emphasises a 'Rakusho' approach—prioritising enjoyment and laughter alongside rigorous safety standards.

Instruction is conducted in small groups to ensure every diver receives personalised attention and can progress at their own pace. The team is proficient in both Japanese and English, facilitating training for a wide range of international and local divers. For those looking to advance their careers, the centre provides a full pathway from entry-level certifications up to Divemaster.

Beyond initial training, SHARK EYE maintains a strong community of divers, organising excursions not just around the Izu Peninsula, but also to Okinawa and international destinations. This commitment to long-term progression helps divers transition from students to confident, skilled members of the diving community.

As an SSI-affiliated school, SHARK EYE offers a comprehensive range of training programmes. Beginners can start with the Open Water Diver course, with subsequent paths leading through Advanced Open Water Diver and Rescue Diver certifications.

The curriculum extends into specialised skills, including Nitrox, Deep Diving, Wreck Diving, and Dry Suit training. For those interested in technical or professional progression, the centre provides instruction for Divemaster, as well as specific modules such as Navigation, Search & Recovery, and Perfect Buoyancy.

The centre offers full equipment hire, including wetsuits, regulators, and fins, for those not travelling with their own kit. For those who have recently completed their Open Water Diver course, the centre provides a three-month period of complimentary equipment hire to help build familiarity with the gear.

On-site facilities include a dedicated 'Divers House' in Izu, providing accommodation for those staying overnight. For active members, the centre also provides equipment storage services.

The marine life in Izu is defined by the influence of the Kuroshio Current, which brings a high density of both large pelagics and delicate macro species. On the deeper walls and outer reefs, you can encounter large animals such as sharks, rays, and dolphins, with seasonal visitors including humpback whales and manta rays.

In the shallower reef tops and sandy areas, the biodiversity is immense. You will regularly see schools of Anthias, various species of fish, and sea turtles. The rocky outcrops are often home to frogfish and a wide variety of soft corals.

For macro enthusiasts, the area is a significant draw. The reefs host a diverse array of nudibranchs and various species of pufferfish, particularly during the spring. You may also find clownfish and bamboo sharks tucked into the reef structure.

Seasonal highlights include the appearance of eagle rays between May and July, and the presence of thresher sharks from summer through autumn.

Diving conditions in Izu vary significantly depending on the specific location and the influence of the Kuroshio Current. The southern sites, such as Mikomoto, are known for strong currents and high-energy environments, making them suitable for experienced divers.

In contrast, the western side of the peninsula, including areas like Osezaki and Hirasawa, offers more sheltered, stable conditions that are ideal for training and beginners. The east coast provides a mix of both, with deep walls and more exposed reef systems.