What other travelers are saying about Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium
This is the best place in Japan in terms of Aquarium exhibits perhaps the best in the whole world!
There are a lot of sea creatures to be seen here!
The whale shark is of course the main attraction but even the small species deserves much attention as well! I would recommend maybe 5 hrs to spend here inside... it's just too big plus it is best to take a rest once in a while during the tour!
If you're looking for a valid reason to rent a car in Okinawa, here it is. It took us about two hours to drive from the rental car parking lot in Downtown Naha, and the second half was a scenic coastal drive with sneaky traffic lights that were positioned horizontally. The aquarium parking structure was huge, so we had no trouble finding a space.
Admission was ¥2,180 per person which was less than $15, a good deal considering how expansive the aquarium was over four floors. It features one of the world's largest tanks called the Kuroshio Sea which holds almost two million gallons of water. Gigantic whale sharks and manta rays dominated the tank, but there were also thousands of fish of different species swimming around them with nary a care.
There was plenty of marine flora and fauna to examine in smaller individual tanks. The aquarium's specialties include deep-sea species like salamander sharks that live at depths of over 2,000 feet. We missed the dolphin show, but life isn't perfect. A two-hour visit is probably sufficient for most visitors unless you're some fish fanatic. Not us though. We prefer our fish sashimi style. Too tacky? Sorry.
The good: Lots of sea animals from manta, sting rays, sharks, fishes, shelled guys, star fish, manatees, dolphins, turtles etc
The Price: Fair price at 5k for 2 adults and a child. You can also upgrade to feed the dolphins.
The car park: I parked in p7, lots of space and staff on deck to help.
The staff: super helpful and patient.
The to be improved: too many people. They should use online booking slots with maximum Capacity per slot. Overcrowding was a major issue which took the one star away from the experience.
Overall the aquarium and expo section is excellent viewing and value.
Went at 2pm on a Tuesday. It was very cool seeing all the animals, especially the whale shark.
Also went to the dolphin show. It was quite simple at first but got more complicated and impressive as the show progressed.
The deep sea area was nice. It said it was the first successful exhibition so that was cool.
It was very hot, especially outside, so bring an umbrella and suncream.
It was a once in a lifetime experience and I definitely recommend!
Awesome place. It’s an Aquarium and more …. Aquarium was interesting with educational theme although we do pity the lonely whale shark being confined.
Adults and young adults thoroughly enjoyed the dolphin show. The park is big but we have no time to explore everything.
