A Clear Blue Ocean 140 Meters Offshore
On the way to the observation tower, visitors cross a bridge stretching over the ocean. The walk itself is part of the experience, offering refreshing sea breezes and sweeping views of the Pacific. On days when the water is especially clear, it may even be possible to see fish swimming below from the bridge.
Inside the tower, a spiral staircase leads visitors gradually downward toward the underwater observation area. When you reach the observation room, a fascinating underwater world appears beyond the large glass windows. Colorful corals and schools of tropical and temperate fish create a scene that feels like entering another world.
Among the coral communities, including colonies of Acropora hyacinthus, visitors may see a wide variety of marine life such as damselfish, butterflyfish, parrotfish, and striped pufferfish. Depending on conditions, lucky visitors may even encounter a sea turtle slowly gliding through the water.
Because visitors can enjoy this authentic underwater scenery without wearing diving equipment, the attraction is suitable for a wide range of visitors, from families with children to older travelers.
A Spectacular School of Hundreds of Rudderfish
One of the most famous sights around the underwater observation tower is the enormous school of rudderfish, locally known as Gure. Hundreds of these fish may gather around the tower, creating an impressive underwater spectacle.
Watching the school move as one, changing direction together and filling the observation windows, is an unforgettable sight. Their coordinated movements can almost look like an underwater dance. The school is beautiful even when viewed from above the water, but seeing it through the underwater observation windows creates an even more immersive experience.
During feeding experiences, large numbers of fish may gather around the area at once. The water can become filled with flashing silver bodies as the fish move together. Although this is a natural marine environment, the opportunity to observe such a large school from such a close distance is quite unusual and is especially appealing to visitors interested in marine life and fishing.
Marine Life That Changes with the Seasons
The Kuroshio Current has a major influence on Kushimoto’s marine environment, and the species visible around the observation tower change throughout the year. More than 270 species of fish have been recorded in the waters around the tower, and during particularly productive periods, more than 70 species have reportedly been observed during a single visit.
Spring: The Ocean Comes Alive
In spring, visitors may encounter species such as Japanese anchovy-like silversides, rudderfish, clownfish, and blue damselfish. As the water becomes increasingly active, colorful butterflyfish also become more noticeable around the coral communities, adding vibrant colors to the underwater landscape.
Summer: A Tropical Underwater World
During summer, the influence of the Kuroshio Current becomes particularly strong, bringing an abundance of tropical and subtropical species. Visitors may see striking fish such as Moorish idols, banded coral fish, and ornate butterflyfish. Combined with the clear water, these colorful species create an atmosphere reminiscent of a tropical sea.
Autumn: A Season of Incredible Variety
Autumn is one of the best seasons for observing a wide variety of fish. Colorful species such as three-striped butterflyfish, Oriental butterflyfish, and parrotfish become more prominent. The diversity and colors of the marine life can make the area look like a natural aquarium.
Winter: Crystal-Clear Visibility
In winter, the water can become particularly clear, allowing visitors to see farther into the underwater landscape. Although the number of species may be somewhat lower than in warmer seasons, the excellent visibility makes it possible to observe coral colonies and individual fish with remarkable clarity.
About Kushimoto Marine Park
Kushimoto Marine Park is one of Japan’s pioneering marine park areas, designated in 1970. The park offers much more than the underwater observation tower. Visitors can enjoy an aquarium, the semi-submersible underwater sightseeing boat Stella Maris, a diving park, cottages, and restaurants, allowing them to experience Kushimoto’s marine environment in many different ways.
The aquarium focuses primarily on marine life found around Kushimoto and displays approximately 400 species and 4,000 individual animals. Large tanks and a 24-meter-long underwater tunnel allow visitors to watch sharks, rays, tuna, and other marine animals swimming overhead.
The park also has a Sea Turtle Park, where visitors can see turtles ranging from young hatchlings to large individuals weighing more than 100 kilograms. The facility has also achieved success in artificial breeding. A popular hands-on experience allows visitors to meet young sea turtles on a regular basis.
Underwater Sightseeing on the Semi-Submersible Boat Stella Maris
In addition to the underwater observation tower, Kushimoto Marine Park offers an underwater sightseeing experience aboard the semi-submersible boat Stella Maris.
From the underwater observation cabin, visitors can view coral communities designated under the Ramsar Convention from close range. Staff members provide explanations about the marine ecosystem, helping visitors understand the natural environment and the importance of protecting Kushimoto’s ocean.
The boat also provides an opportunity to observe extensive table coral communities considered to be among the northernmost examples of their kind in the world. Experiencing this rich marine ecosystem, shaped by the warm Kuroshio Current, is a memorable highlight for visitors interested in nature and marine life.
Dine with Views of the Pacific Ocean
The park’s restaurant, Acropora, offers a relaxing place to enjoy a meal while looking out toward the Pacific Ocean and the underwater observation tower. Popular dishes include a colorful three-style tuna rice bowl made with tuna delivered directly from Katsuura, as well as ramen prepared with a rich grilled sea bream broth.
Other menu choices include sea bream rice bowls, whitebait rice bowls, seared bonito rice bowls, and Wakayama-style ramen. With a variety of seafood and local dishes available, the restaurant is a convenient place to enjoy a meal during a day of sightseeing.
Access to Kushimoto Marine Park
Kushimoto Marine Park is approximately a 20-minute drive from the Susami-Minami Interchange on the Kisei Expressway. Visitors traveling by train can reach the park from JR Kushimoto Station, where a free shuttle bus service is available.
The park can also be reached by the Kushimoto Town Community Bus. Visitors using this service can get off at the Kaichu Koen-mae bus stop, which is located close to the park.
Things to Know Before Your Visit
Because the underwater observation tower uses the natural ocean environment, access may be suspended depending on weather and sea conditions. In particular, strong winds and high waves may make the tower unavailable for safety reasons. Checking the latest operating conditions before visiting is therefore recommended.
The tower also contains a relatively steep spiral staircase, while the connecting bridge includes steps and uneven sections. As a result, access may be difficult for visitors using wheelchairs or strollers. Travelers with mobility concerns should check accessibility conditions in advance.
An Unforgettable Encounter with the Ocean of Kushimoto
The Kushimoto Marine Park Underwater Observation Tower offers a rare opportunity to experience the beautiful underwater world shaped by the Kuroshio Current without having to go scuba diving. From colorful coral communities and tropical fish to spectacular schools of rudderfish, the tower allows visitors to witness the wonders of a living ocean ecosystem.
Visitors can learn about marine life at the aquarium, observe the real ocean from the underwater observation tower, and explore coral communities aboard the Stella Maris. Together, these experiences provide many different ways to discover the natural beauty of Kushimoto’s sea.
Located near the southernmost point of Japan’s main island of Honshu, Kushimoto offers a fascinating marine environment unlike many other places in Japan. Take your time, look through the underwater windows, and discover the mysterious world beneath the Pacific Ocean.