This dive site, Budaine, is located around Kamikimoto Island, an uninhabited island off the coast of Shimoda, Japan. It requires a 20-minute boat ride from the harbor to reach the site. While there's no specific historical narrative provided, the site's fame is deeply tied to the powerful Kuroshio Current, which makes it a dynamic environment best suited for experienced divers comfortable with challenging conditions.
The vibrant marine life at Budaine is dominated by large pelagic species. It is particularly renowned for its consistent hammerhead shark sightings, especially from summer to autumn. Divers can expect to encounter not only tons of hammerheads but also sandbar sharks and blacktip sharks. The influence of the Kuroshio Current frequently attracts other impressive animals like sunfish, sailfish, majestic whale sharks, manta rays, and eagle rays, making it a true big-animal haven.
The best time to visit Budaine is from summer to autumn when the Kuroshio Current is active, bringing with it an abundance of pelagic life. Divers should be well-prepared for strong currents and have appropriate experience and equipment. Freedivers with advanced skills and a focus on pelagic encounters will also find this site rewarding due to the opportunities for large animal sightings.
