The Japanese Shipwreck is a compact wreck dive located a short drive from Amed, in the opposite direction of Tulamben. Dating back to World War II, its exact history remains unclear, which adds a quiet sense of mystery to the site.
The wooden vessel is approximately 20 metres long and lies in shallow water near the entrance of a bay. While small in size, it provides an interesting wreck to explore before continuing the dive along the surrounding reef slope.
The appeal of the Japanese Shipwreck lies in the combination of a small, easily explored wreck and the nearby reef. Divers can spend time examining the remains of the hull before drifting or finning along coral-covered sections.
Because of its size and the variable current in the area, this is not usually one of our core daily dive sites. However, when conditions are right, it makes a rewarding addition to a multi-dive day.
It offers a change of pace, particularly for divers who enjoy exploring smaller wrecks and surrounding reef slopes.
Marine life around the Japanese Shipwreck and nearby reef regularly includes:
Pygmy seahorses are sometimes found in the area, though sightings depend heavily on conditions and guide experience.
The combination of a small wreck and surrounding reef makes this a varied and interesting dive.
To kick start our honeymoon we decided to get our scuba diving certifications. We managed to do the open water and the advanced open water in 6 days (including 1 rest day). We did night dives, sunrise dives, shipwreck, drift and deep and lots more. Really good fun and Amed has enough to explore for both courses.
Wow, Wow, Wow! Could not recommend any other place to go if you are looking at diving in Amed. Myself and my friend completed our Advanced Open Water course (followed by a number of fun dives), with Wayan and the team at Bali Dive Cove. The whole experience was seamless!
At Bali Dive Cove, we typically organise two or more dives per day, pairing sites based on conditions and experience level. Dives at the Japanese Shipwreck are always guided and carefully timed based on current and conditions.
When suitable, the site may be incorporated into Speciality dives.
Yes. Because the wreck sits in shallow water, snorkelling around the site is possible in calm conditions. Snorkellers can often see sections of the structure along with reef fish and coral growth, although it is important to remain aware of changing currents and sea conditions.
The wreck is not fully intact. Over time the wooden structure has broken down due to age, storms and marine growth. However, several identifiable sections of the hull and framework remain visible on the seabed.
Yes. When conditions are suitable, the Japanese Shipwreck can be combined with other Amed dive sites as part of a two or three dive day. It is sometimes paired with nearby reefs to create a varied dive experience.
Current can occur at the Japanese Shipwreck and may vary from mild to moderate depending on tidal movement and sea conditions. Dives are always planned carefully, and guides assess conditions before entering the water.
It is generally better suited to certified divers. Although the wreck itself is shallow, the site can experience unpredictable currents depending on tide and weather. In some situations, beginner divers who have already completed several dives with us on calmer sites may be suitable, depending on the conditions and the instructor’s assessment.
Not usually. Because the wreck is relatively small and the area can experience stronger current than other Amed sites, it is only included in the dive plan when conditions are suitable and visibility is good.
No. The wreck forms only one part of the dive. After exploring the remains of the structure, divers typically continue along the nearby reef slope where coral growth and reef fish provide additional points of interest throughout the dive.
The Japanese Shipwreck lies in relatively shallow water, with the upper sections beginning at around 5 metres. Beyond the wreck, the surrounding reef slopes gradually down to approximately 30 metres, allowing divers to continue exploring the reef after visiting the wreck itself.
Interested in diving the Japanese Shipwreck? Contact us to check availability. If you would like to include the Japanese Shipwreck in your dive plans, get in touch and we can advise whether conditions and experience level make it a suitable option during your stay.
