Discover Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium: A 6-Hour Adventure

If you’re planning a trip to Okinawa, visiting the Churaumi Aquarium is a must.

This 6-hour model course will guide you through the aquarium’s highlights, ensuring you experience the best of what this incredible destination has to offer.

1. Entrance Gate (Whale Shark Monument)

Start your day by arriving early to avoid the crowds. At the entrance, you’ll be greeted by a large whale shark monument—a perfect spot for a memorable photo.

Before heading inside, take a moment to explore the surroundings and use the coin lockers available to store any belongings that might be cumbersome during your visit.

Now, you’re ready to dive into the wonders of the ocean!

2. Ino Sea Creatures (Touch Pool)

Your first stop inside the aquarium should be the touch pool, where you can interact with various sea creatures native to Okinawa’s shallow waters.

The name “Ino” comes from the Okinawan word for “shallow sea.” This area is particularly popular with children, as they can safely touch starfish, sea cucumbers, and other harmless marine life.

3. Coral Sea

Experience the beauty of a massive coral reef at the Coral Sea exhibit. Here, you’ll find around 70 species and 450 colonies of reef-building corals.

The open-top tank allows natural sunlight to illuminate the corals, creating a stunning, sparkling effect. This exhibit is designed to mimic the coral reefs found off the coast of Motobu, Okinawa, offering a truly immersive experience.

4. Tropical Fish Sea

Next, explore the vibrant world of Okinawa’s tropical fish. The tank replicates a natural environment, complete with sunlight streaming in, making the fish appear even more colorful and lively.

The occasional “pillar of light” is not artificial but real sunlight, enhancing the feeling that you’re diving in a tropical sea.

5. Churaumi Theater

Take a break from walking and enjoy a 20-minute film at the Churaumi Theater.

The theater offers three different programs—”Living in Churaumi,” “The Kuroshio Sea of Okinawa,” and “Okinawa Coral Reef Sea.”

The screening helps deepen your understanding of the marine life you’ve just seen, and you can also enjoy a unique view of the Kuroshio Sea tank through the window behind the screen.

6. Shark Research Lab

Learn the truth about sharks at the Shark Research Lab. Contrary to popular belief, most sharks are shy and pose little danger to humans.

Here, you can observe sharks swimming in tanks, examine specimens, and browse through various educational materials. There’s even a section where you can touch the skin of sharks and rays.

7. The Kuroshio Sea

This is the main attraction of Churaumi Aquarium.

The massive Kuroshio Sea tank is home to whale sharks and manta rays, offering a breathtaking view. You can relax on special seating that allows you to gaze at the aquarium’s diverse marine environment for hours.

Don’t forget to take a photo with the tank in the background!

8. Cafe “Ocean Blue”

Enjoy a meal or a drink at Cafe “Ocean Blue,” where you can dine while watching the whale sharks and manta rays swim by in the Kuroshio Sea tank.

The blue-lit ambiance creates a magical atmosphere, making you feel like you’re dining underwater.

The menu includes light snacks like ice coffee and spaghetti, as well as Okinawan specialties like purple sweet potato ice cream.

9. Deep Sea

After your meal, head to the Deep Sea exhibit, where you can observe rare and unique creatures that live at depths of 200 meters.

The tanks here simulate the deep sea environment, showcasing species like long-finned eels and hamadai, which are challenging to keep in captivity. You’ll also see glowing corals and fish that emit light like fireflies.

10. Okichan Theater

Exit the aquarium and make your way to the Okichan Theater within the Ocean Expo Park.

Here, you can watch an exciting dolphin show against the backdrop of the East China Sea and Ie Island.

The dolphins, led by Okichan, perform acrobatic jumps and tricks that are sure to impress.

The theater also hosts diver shows and dolphin observation sessions.

11. Sea Turtle and Manatee Exhibits

Within the same Ocean Expo Park, you can visit the Sea Turtle and Manatee exhibits. T

he Sea Turtle exhibit allows you to view these gentle creatures from both above and below the water.

Meanwhile, the Manatee exhibit offers a chance to see these rare animals, which are said to be the inspiration behind the mermaid legend.

If you’re lucky, you might even catch them during feeding time!

12. Exit Gate

Before you leave, be sure to visit the aquarium’s gift shop, “Blue Manta,” located near the exit gate. Here, you can find exclusive Churaumi Aquarium souvenirs and traditional Okinawan gifts.

The plush whale sharks are particularly popular, so make sure to grab one before you go.

The shop also offers a delivery service, so you don’t have to worry about carrying your purchases.

Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium

• Address: 424 Ishikawa, Motobu-cho, Kunigami-gun, Okinawa Prefecture
• Admission Fees: Adults: ¥2,180, High School Students: ¥1,440, Elementary & Junior High School Students: ¥710, Children under 6: Free
• Tickets: Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium Ticket Reservation (Earn and Use Rakuten Points)
• Opening Hours: Regular Season: 8:30 AM – 6:30 PM (Last Admission: 5:30 PM)
  • Note: Hours may vary during peak seasons; please check the official website.
• Closed Days: Please check the official website for details.
• Official Website: Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium