East Asia

Japan

Japan isn't just one dive destination, it's a whole collection, each with its own personality. We've chased hammerheads off Yonaguni, drifted through coral gardens in the Keramas, and shivered slightly while admiring intricate nudibranchs in the Izu Peninsula's cooler waters. Our pick for sheer variety and those warmer temperatures would be Okinawa and the Yaeyama Islands; think manta rays at Ishigaki's Manta Scramble and the chance to spot humpbacks during winter. Timing really depends on what you're after, but summer and early autumn generally offer the calmest conditions across the board. If you're looking for something truly unique, consider the Ogasawara Islands for their pelagic action, though getting there is an adventure in itself.

South Korea

Diving in South Korea feels like tapping into a well-kept secret, especially if you’re used to tropical warmth. Forget the usual reef scenes; here, it’s all about the dramatic volcanic topography and a surprisingly robust temperate ecosystem. We always steer divers towards Jeju Island first. Its UNESCO-listed volcanic landscapes continue underwater, creating compelling backdrops for dives through unique soft coral forests. Watching the haenyeo, Jeju’s legendary free-diving women, work their craft before a dive always grounds the experience in something truly local. For the adventurous, Ulleungdo and its neighbouring Dokdo islets offer more rugged diving. Strong currents are common, but they bring in the larger pelagics - we’ve seen impressive schools of Bullet Mackerel and Oriental Bonito pass by. The East Coast has its moments too, especially if you’re keen on finding some of the more unusual bottom dwellers, like the Japanese Stargazer. Visibility can be variable, often dropping in spring with plankton blooms, but when it’s good, the sheer density of marine life - from Bigscale Duckbills to striking Star ascidians - is genuinely compelling. Pack a thick wetsuit; even in summer, the water has a refreshing chill.

Taiwan

Taiwan probably isn't the first place that springs to mind for a dive trip, and that's exactly why we love it. The island sits right in the path of the Kuroshio Current, bringing in some incredible species you just don't see everywhere else. If you’re into big pelagics and serious drift dives, Orchid Island and Green Island are your go-to, with currents that will whip you past schools of jacks and barracuda, sometimes even a passing sperm whale. Kenting National Park on the main island offers a gentler pace with healthy hard corals and a surprising array of reef fish, perfect for a longer bottom time. We’d suggest heading there in late spring or early autumn to avoid typhoon season and enjoy the best visibility.