What other travelers are saying about Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium
Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium Review
Key highlights:
• The massive Kuroshio Sea tank showcases giant open ocean species.
• Okichan Theater provides free dolphin shows outside the main building.
• Touch pools allow visitors to interact with starfish and sea cucumbers.
• Deep sea exhibits display rare bioluminescent marine life.
• Open air tanks support massive live coral colonies.
• Outdoor areas house manatees and sea turtles.
Adult admission costs 2,180 yen. You will find plenty of things to do here. You should walk through the different exhibition levels, touch the sea creatures, and watch the feeding sessions. You should arrive early and spend a full day exploring the massive facility. You will find different categories for unique animals. The exhibits separate the marine life into deep sea creatures, shallow coral reef ecosystems, and open ocean giants. You watch dolphins perform at 10:30, 11:30, 13:00, 15:00, and 17:00. The staff feed the main Kuroshio tank animals at 9:30, 15:00, and 17:00.
You must book early and pay extra if you want to sit next to the main aquarium tank. Cafe Ocean Blue charges an additional 1,000 yen for 50 minutes of front row seating.
The aquarium sits inside Ocean Expo Park in Motobu. The facility only has one whale shark left. The surviving male whale shark is named Jinta. He is over 30 years old. The other female whale shark died in 2021 because worsening skeletal abnormalities restricted her ability to eat.
I rate this attraction 5/5. The Osaka aquarium is still more enjoyable in my opinion.
More about Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium from our blog
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, photography for personal use is allowed inside the aquarium. However, the use of flash and tripods is prohibited in certain areas to ensure the well-being of the animals and the comfort of other guests.
Yes, the Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium has several dining options within its premises, offering a variety of meals and snacks. Options range from quick bites to sit-down restaurants that serve local Okinawan cuisine as well as international dishes.
Yes, the aquarium is designed to be accessible for visitors with disabilities, featuring ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms throughout the facility. Wheelchair rental is also available.
While direct interaction with marine animals is generally not permitted to ensure their safety and well-being, the aquarium offers educational programs and feeding demonstrations where visitors can learn about marine life and observe the animals up close.
This is the biggest aquarium I've ever seen. Huge manata and eagle rays. Nice sized whale shark with a lot of other smaller fish and sharks. There are so many other tanks with other local fish, this is really a great park for everyone and only 2,000yen. The rest of the park with turtles, manatees, and dolphins are totally free. Parking is also free at the north gate garage, right across from the entrance. A lot of helpful staff around to answer any questions. Plenty of food trucks, vending machines, and restaurants to eat also. Great half day trip.
This is by far the most famous aquarium in Okinawa, and possibly one of the most famous aquariums in all of Japan. The main highlight — and true signature of this aquarium — is the massive whale shark, which is absolutely breathtaking to see up close. It alone makes the visit unforgettable.
Beyond the whale shark, there are many other impressive marine exhibits that showcase the rich ocean life of Okinawa. The overall scale and quality of the displays are outstanding.
In addition, the walk leading to the aquarium is also very enjoyable, surrounded by open space and beautiful scenery, which adds to the entire experience. It’s not just an aquarium visit, but a full, memorable outing that is highly recommended.
We went on a Saturday in early March, their down season. It was very busy. I can't imagine being there during peak tourist season. A lot of the exhibits are outdoors so bring an umbrella and dress appropriately for the weather. The main exhibit of the whale shark is impressive.
It was a bit of a road trip from where I used to live but the Okinawa aquarium is definitely worth it. It’s the perfect thing to do on a rainy day when there’s not much happening outdoors. The staff are super nice, everything is well organized and there’s a huge variety of fish and sea life to see 🐡
It’s especially a must visit if you have little ones they’ll absolutely love it. Even as an adult, it’s really impressive and relaxing to walk through. Totally worth the drive.
