BSAC Japan has been a part of the BSAC family for 35 years . In the club ’ s 70th year , Hosakawa san , CEO and Chair of BSAC Japan , and former BSAC Chair Eugene Farrell talk to Kristina Pedder
BSACJAPAN
BSAC in Japanese seas
BSAC Japan has been a part of the BSAC family for 35 years . In the club ’ s 70th year , Hosakawa san , CEO and Chair of BSAC Japan , and former BSAC Chair Eugene Farrell talk to Kristina Pedder
The top place to dive in Japan is undoubtably Okinawa ’ s Coral Island , about two hours by plane from Tokyo ; it is said to have the most beautiful blue sea in the world . Okinawa waters have outstanding visibility and you ’ ll be warm enough in a wetsuit , except from December to February . You can dive there all year round , although typhoons may pass through in September . There are coral reefs , tropical fish , and whales can be seen from the boat . And did you know that the BSAC brand is well recognised throughout the country , thanks to BSAC Japan .
BSAC Japan had an unlikely beginning in 1987 as a division of a chain of gyms . The Japanese economy was buoyant , and business prospered . Other diver training agencies were already established in Japan , however , a British organisation had
“ There is a strong positive association with the UK ” certain attractions . Many Japanese people have a good understanding of the English language , particularly among younger age groups . There is a strong positive association with the UK and all things British , together with a huge respect and fascination for the royal family . BSAC ’ s royal patronage , passed down from the late Prince Philip to his son King Charles and his grandson and current BSAC President William , Prince of Wales , is a connection to the royal family that is valued by the Japanese people . Hosakawa san was pleased to be invited to the British Embassy event to celebrate King Charles ’ coronation .
When Japan ’ s bubble economy burst in the mid-1990s , BSAC Japan faced a period of significant financial and business difficulties . Its parent company changed a few times , and the future looked precarious . But in 2010 , the company became independent , and it has since gone from strength to strength ; successfully weathering financial crashes and the Covid pandemic .
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