Eric from Nishiizu Marine kai in Tago, west coast of the Izu Peninsula, has announced the arrival of a cute guest! It’s a tiny pygmy seahorse, Kodama Tatsu.

For a long time, it was affectionately known as the “pygmy seahorse,” but in August 2025, the Japanese name “Kodama Tatsu” was proposed. The name was apparently given because the way it lives among the fan-shaped coral branches is reminiscent of the spirits that dwell in trees, known as Kodama. This “Kodama Tatsu” appeared in the waters of Tago in December 2025. The individual in the photo is less than 1 cm long, and was discovered at a depth of 23 m.

Eric commented, “Please observe it without touching it and with a low light! So as not to disturb it.”

Tago in west Coast of the Izu Peninsula is about three hours by car from Tokyo. It takes about one hour from Shuzenji Road Shuzenji IC, and about one hour and 45 minutes from Tomei Expressway Numazu IC.

If you are traveling by train, the nearest station is Shuzenji Station on the Izu Hakone Railway Sunzu Line. It is about an hour by car from the station. If you contact a dive shop in advance, they will provide a shuttle service from Shuzenji Station (please inquire with the shop to see if it is free or charge).

☆Information and photos by Nishiizu Marine Kai

Articles recommended for you：

》Tago Diving Basic Information

》Izu Peninsula Diving Guide