Osaki Lion Fish Palace

This dive site, Osaki Lion Fish Palace (also known as Osaki Minocasago Palace), is a notable underwater location situated in western Ishigaki, Japan. It is characterized by unique root structures that emerge from a sandy seabed, providing diverse habitats for marine life. Divers can navigate around these fascinating formations, exploring depths up to 19 meters in a relatively gentle environment, making it suitable for various skill levels. The palace is teeming with a variety of marine animals. Schools of scorpionfish and the well-camouflaged leaf scorpionfish are frequently found among the roots. Shallower sections attract schools of snapper, while the sandy bottom is a prime location for observing garden eels, jawfish, and the elusive yasha and hiretta gobies. Sea turtles are also commonly sighted, adding to the rich biodiversity of the site. Osaki Lion Fish Palace is an excellent year-round destination for divers seeking a diverse and healthy ecosystem. Its moderate depth and rich macro life make it especially rewarding for macro photographers and those interested in observing unique bottom dwellers. Both scuba divers and freedivers will find plenty to explore, with the shallow areas being particularly appealing for snorkelers, making it a highly recommended beginner-friendly site due to its generally mild conditions.