Tsukumi Dolphin Island

Tsukumi Dolphin Island opened on April 2, 2011, established through a collaboration between Marine Palace Aquarium (which operates Umitamago Aquarium in Oita City) and Tsukumi City government. Located on the northern side of the Youra Peninsula in southeastern Oita Prefecture, the facility represents a unique approach to marine park design by utilizing natural seawater environments rather than traditional enclosed pools.

As of November 2023, the park housed 11 bottlenose dolphins that live in the natural sea environment. The dolphins are raised in an inlet with ocean waters that closely resembles their natural habitat, distinguishing this facility from conventional aquariums. The park's central theme focuses on "interaction and healing" between dolphins and humans, offering visitors direct encounters with marine life in a setting that prioritizes hands-on experiences.

The park provides three daily dolphin performances alongside various interactive programs. Visitors can feed dolphins, swim alongside them by holding their dorsal or pectoral fins, or participate in supervised touching experiences. A distinctive activity called "pushing" allows dolphins to propel visitors across the water's surface using their snouts—an experience available only at this facility in Japan. The shallow water design ensures safety for participants, including children. Even small children can participate in programs when accompanied by adults. Additional attractions include observing dolphins from small electric boats, penguin and sea turtle exhibits, and a touch pool designed for younger visitors.

The adjacent Sato no Eki Tsukumi Marche serves as both a shopping destination and dining venue. The market offers Tsukumi Dolphin Island merchandise and specialty products from Oita Prefecture, including orange-flavored jams and sweets, local pickles, and canned side dishes. A notable local specialty is cement-colored ice cream made with sunflower seeds, referencing Tsukumi's limestone and cement industry.

Admission fees are structured by age group. Adults (high school students and older) pay 1,300 yen, children (elementary and middle school students) 800 yen, and preschoolers (4 years and older) 650 yen. Group discounts are available for parties of 20 or more people, with adults paying 1,200 yen, children 700 yen, and preschoolers 550 yen. Special school trip rates are also offered. The facility closes for approximately two months from mid-January to mid-March for maintenance.

By car, the park is approximately 20 minutes from Tsukumi IC on the Higashi-Kyushu Expressway, 30 minutes from Saiki IC, or 15 minutes from JR Tsukumi Station. Bus service operates on Sundays and public holidays, with the journey from JR Tsukumi Station taking approximately 23 minutes. The facility is located at 2218-10 Youra, Tsukumi City, Oita Prefecture. For inquiries, contact 0972-85-3020.