Japanese Gardens
is one of the most famous and picturesque dive and snorkel sites on Koh Tao. Located in the sheltered bay on the east side of the iconic Koh Nang Yuan islands, it earned its name from its stunning resemblance to a meticulously landscaped Japanese rock garden, featuring ornate coral formations and white sandy pathways.
Key Details
- Depth: 2 to 15 meters.
- Skill Level: Beginner / Open Water. It is a primary location for “Try Scuba” programs and Open Water courses due to its calm, shallow conditions.
- Visibility: Generally excellent, often reaching 15 to 20 meters.
- Topography: A gentle, sandy slope decorated with massive granite boulders and a high density of hard and soft corals.
Marine Life
- Coral Diversity: The site is packed with massive Brain corals, Staghorn corals, and vibrant Table corals. You’ll also find plenty of “Christmas Tree Worms” that spiral into their holes when you swim near them.
- Reef Fish: The bay is a nursery for many species. Expect to see schools of Yellowtail Barracuda, Butterflyfish, Angelfish, and Sergeant Majors.
- The “Nemo” Spots: There are several anemones scattered throughout the site inhabited by Pink Skunk Clownfish and Clark’s Anemonefish.
- Sandy Bottom Residents: Keep an eye on the sand for Goby fish living in symbiosis with Blind Shrimps, and Blue-spotted Stingrays partially buried in the seabed.
- Unusual Sightings: It’s common to see Hawksbill Sea Turtles grazing on the sponges, and occasionally Banded Sea Kraits (sea snakes) hunting among the rocks.
Location
10.11937, 99.81422 Get Directions
