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Introduction to Whale Watching! Recommended spots, times of year, and whale watching tours.

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What is whale watching?

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Whale watching is a popular activity in which visitors observe wild whales from the sea on a boat.

Held throughout Japan, the moment a giant whale appears in the ocean is,An unforgettable experience for everyone.It's a great experience! The scenes of the whales jumping out of the water and seeing their large tail fins up close are especially powerful.

For those who...
◆Those who want to enjoy a special experience on a family vacation
◆Those who want to learn about whale species and ecology
◆For those new to whale watching
◆To learn about popular whale watching tours
◆Those planning a trip centered on whale watching

This article introduces the attractions and recommended tours for whale watching in [Japan]!

 

Whale watching season and location

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There are many opportunities to see whale watching year-round in Japan.

January to March in Okinawais the best season for whale watching. This time of year is,humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae)gather around the Kerama Islands, and mother whales and calves are especially common.

Also,June to September in Shiretoko and Abashiri, Hokkaido.tominke whaleand killer whales appear.The period from March to May in Choshi, Chiba Prefecture, Japan, is from March to May. March to May in Choshi, Chiba Prefecture.indicates such things as location of person or thing, location of short-term action, etc.sei whale (Balaenoptera borealis)can be observed in the warm waters of spring, and are popular for observation in the spring.

Recommended season/whales to be seen
◆Okinawa: January - March / Humpback whales
◆Hokkaido: June - September / Minke Whale
◆Chiba: March - May / Sei whale

 

What is the appeal of whale watching?

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The main attraction of whale watching is,The thrill and excitement of searching for whales in natureIt is.

The moment when the huge whale suddenly appears on the surface of the water and jumps or raises its tail fin is a spectacular scene!

In particular, the scene of humpback whales breaching (jumping) and slapping their tail fins was described by many participants asAn experience I will never forget.It has been described as "the best of the best.

 

What are the chances of seeing whales?

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Whale watching, overall, although it fluctuates from year to year.Probability of 90% or higherYou can encounter whales in

especially97% in Okinawa, ,95% in Amami Oshimaand a high probability of seeing whales.

Our guides, who know the local waters well, will take you to the best spots according to the sea conditions of the day, so you can enjoy yourself with peace of mind.

 

What to Wear & Bring for Whale Watching

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Because the whale watching season is during the winter,Thermal protection is essential.The weather is cold in the mornings and evenings, especially in Okinawa. Especially in Okinawa, it gets cold in the mornings and evenings, so be prepared with thick winter clothing.

If you are worried about seasickness,Bring your own anti-sickness medicine for peace of mind.It is. It might be a good idea to have some candy-like snacks ◎

Recommended Clothing & Personal Belongings
◆Dress
Wear clothes that can get wet.
Shoes with heels are not acceptable.
◆Things to bring
Camera
Towel
Drinks
Anti-Drunken Drugs
Binoculars
Raincoat
(e.g., water-repellent windbreaker)
Changing clothes
Sunscreen
Sunglasses

 

How to book a whale watching tour

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Every year the whale watching tours are so popular that they fill up quickly. ThereforeEarly reservations required.Oh my god!!!

It is advisable to check in advance regarding cancellation policies and weather-related tour cancellations.

Latest! Whale Watching Tour's
Click here for a list of popular rankings

 

Types of whales that can be seen in Japan

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Types of whales that can be seen in Japan
◆Humpback whales: seen in Okinawa and the Amami Islands, characterized by their large jumps
◆ Sperm whales: live in the deep sea around the Ogasawara and Izu Islands
◆Minke whale: small whale seen around Hokkaido
◆Tsuchi whale: A relatively rare species that inhabits the coast of Japan.
Orca: A powerful marine creature that can be observed in Shiretoko, Hokkaido, and other locations.

 

Whale Watching Spots in Japan

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There are numerous whale-watching spots in Japan,Different types of whales can be seen at different locations.The following is a list of the most common problems with the "C" in the "C" column.

We have compiled a list of spots that have attracted attention in recent years and the types of whales that can be seen!

 

Okinawa (Naha, Kerama Islands, Mizuna Island)

沖縄本島

Naha, the Kerama Islands, and Mizuna Island on the main island of Okinawa are well known for whale watching, and many tourists visit these islands every year to observe the whales.

Surrounded by clear blue waters and abundant nature, this is a special place to see whales up close. You can especially meet humpback whales.â

More Information
◆Whales seen: Humpback whales
◆Season: January - March

⬇︎main island of OkinawaClick here for more information on whale watching at the event.

⬇︎Kerama IslandsClick here for more information on whale watching at the event.

⬇︎JapanClick here for more information on whale watching at the event.

 

Amami Oshima

奄美大島

Amami Oshima is an island of pristine nature and clear, beautiful waters. Whale watching is one of the most popular activities,Winter season onlyThis popular activity takes place at

One of the attractions of whale watching on Amami Oshima is the opportunity to see humpback whales up close. Every year, humpback whales come to the warm waters of Amami-Oshima, and it is a rare experience to observe them as they breed and raise their young.

More Information
◆Whales seen: Humpback whales
◆Season: January - March

⬇︎Amami OshimaClick here for more information on whale watching at the event.

 

Hokkaido (Shiretoko, Abashiri)

北海道シャチ

The Shiretoko Peninsula and Abashiri area in Hokkaido boast spectacular nature and rich ecosystems,One of the best whale watching spots in JapanIt is.

The main attraction, especially during the summer season, is that in addition to whales, orcas and dolphins can also be observed. Shiretoko is a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site, a place of unspoiled wilderness and rich diversity of marine life.

More Information
◆Cetaceans seen: minke, killer whale, orca, and Baird's beaked whale
◆Season: June to September

 

Chiba (Choshi)

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Off the coast of Choshi, in particular.Spring to early summerSei whales are often observed. If you are lucky, you can also see schools of dolphins and seabirds flying around.

Whale watching tours are available as an activity that allows you to enjoy sightseeing and nature observation at the same time,Popular with families and beginners.It is.

More Information
◆Sightings: Sei whales
◆Season: March - May

 

Wakayama Prefecture (Taiji Town)

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The town of Taiji, Wakayama Pref,Whale culture is deeply rooted with a long history of whale fishing.It is known for its

Whale-watching is a great way to observe Baird's beaked whales and minke whales, and you may also encounter pods of dolphins.

In Taiji Town, there is the Taiji Whale Museum, a valuable spot where visitors can learn about the history and culture of whales and enjoy whale watching in waters actually inhabited by whales and dolphins.

More Information
◆Whales seen: Baird's beaked whales, minke whales
◆Season: Spring - Summer

 

Kochi Prefecture (Kuroshio Town)

Kuroshio-cho, Kochi Prefecture, features a beautiful coastline facing the Pacific Ocean and is famous as an area where whale watching can be enjoyed.

It's also where the name comes from.The warm currents of the "Kuroshio Current" flow into the sea area.The area is visited by a large number of whales every year, and there is a particularly high chance of observing large groups of humpback whales.

Kuroshio Town is a popular spot for whale watching because of its abundant nature and spectacular marine life.

More Information
◆Whales seen: Bryde's whale
◆Season: Spring - Fall

 

summary

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How was it? Whale watching can be enjoyed in various areas in Japan!

Depending on the whales in each region and the season, you are sure to experience an impressive encounter with whales.

Thank you for reading to the end.

A.Kitano

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