Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium
One of the world's largest aquariums, featuring a 7.5-million-litre main tank where whale sharks and manta rays glide past a 60 m acrylic viewing wall. Surrounded by Ocean Expo Park on Okinawa's northwest coast.
3–4 hours
¥2,180 adults
8:30–18:30 (last entry 17:30). Extended hours in GW and summer; check official site. No regular closure until Mar 2027 (Dec closure under review).
Year-round (avoid Golden Week and August for crowds)
Bus from Naha bus terminal (~2 hrs) or rental car
Location
Why Visit
- 1
Feeding time for whale sharks is 3 PM daily — arrive 15 min early for front-row viewing
- 2
The park also includes a dolphin lagoon and traditional Okinawan village (free with aquarium ticket)
- 3
The outdoor pools let you see sea turtles and dugongs up close
Local Tips
One of the world's great aquariums — the Kuroshio Tank (35m wide, 10m deep) with whale sharks and manta rays is the centrepiece. The outdoor dolphin and manatee shows are included with admission. Book timed entry in advance during Golden Week and summer. Combine with the adjacent Ocean Expo Park (free, with Okinawa native habitats) for a full day.
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