Ita Diving Center

Ita Diving Center has been operating in Numazu since 2002, serving as a gateway to the celebrated 'Ida Blue' waters. This area is recognised for its exceptional water quality, frequently ranking at the top of Shizuoka Prefecture's water clarity surveys.

The centre is positioned to take full advantage of this environment, offering easy access to vibrant reef systems. Whether you are looking to complete your initial certification or refine your skills in clear, calm conditions, the location provides a consistent and reliable diving experience.

The team consists of four professional instructors dedicated to a high standard of safety and guidance. They manage a range of diver needs, from those taking their very first breaths underwater to advanced divers looking to specialise.

Instruction is provided through the SSI framework, covering everything from entry-level courses to technical skills. The staff is known for a helpful and professional approach, making them particularly well-suited to assisting underwater photographers with their kit and technique.

As an SSI affiliated centre, Ita Diving Center offers a comprehensive educational programme. Beginners can start with the Open Water Diver course, with progression available through to the Advanced Open Water Diver certification.

For those looking to increase their safety margins and technical capabilities, the centre provides the Rescue Diver course and the SSI EANx Specialty (Nitrox). This allows you to extend your bottom time and manage your nitrogen loading more effectively during your dives.

The centre is well-equipped for both local divers and those travelling from further afield. For those requiring a full rental rig, they provide wetsuits, regulators, BCDs, and dive computers. You can also hire individual items such as masks, snorkels, and fins.

For photographers, the centre offers the hire of compact and reflex cameras along with various lenses. The shore-based facilities are modern and clean, featuring spacious changing rooms and hot showers. There is also a dedicated area designed for the maintenance and preparation of underwater photographic equipment.

The marine life at Ida Blue is defined by high concentrations of fish and a diverse range of reef inhabitants. You will find a variety of species moving through the water column and amongst the reef structures.

Macro enthusiasts will find plenty to observe in the smaller details of the habitat. The area is home to glass goby and various other small organisms that thrive in the clear, nutrient-rich waters.

In the open water, you may encounter larger pelagics such as the Manta ray (Mobula alfredi) or ribbonfish. The combination of high visibility and diverse habitats makes this a prime location for both wide-angle and macro photography.

The diving environment at Ida Beach is characterised by calm seas and low currents throughout the year. This makes the site very accessible for a wide range of experience levels.

While the primary site is sheltered, the centre monitors local weather closely. During periods of extreme weather or high swell, diving is moved to the Osezaki area to ensure safety.