This dive site, Shimozone, is a challenging, advanced drift dive located in the complete open sea south of Kuba Island, Japan, experiencing no island shadow. The site is characterized by exceptionally strong tides and unpredictable up and down currents, which facilitate both rapid descent and ascent. Its unique location and current patterns make it a dynamic environment best suited for highly skilled divers comfortable controlling their buoyancy and position in vigorous water movement.
The marine life at Shimozone is spectacular, dominated by large pelagic and migratory species. Divers can anticipate encountering schools of extra-large blue marlin and glukun, alongside impressive migratory fish such as bluefin tuna and bluefin trevally. The site also hosts large, dynamic schools of various trevally species, Spanish mackerel, humpback flounder, grey reef sharks, and groupers, providing a thrilling spectacle of big fish action.
Shimozone is primarily a big fish destination, offering exhilarating drift dives. Given the strong currents and advanced nature, it's crucial for divers to have excellent current diving experience, robust buoyancy control, and ideally, a positive relationship with their dive guide. While not suitable for snorkeling or freediving due to the challenging conditions, for advanced scuba divers seeking thrilling encounters with large pelagic species, Shimozone promises a memorable and dynamic underwater experience.
