Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium
Things to See in Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium
Enter the majestic world of some of the ocean’s largest inhabitants in the biggest tank of Okinawa Churaumi, the Kuroshio Sea. This massive tank allows you to see whale sharks, the world’s biggest fish, and stunning manta rays in their natural habitat. What makes them special is that they have been raised in captivity, a rare feat in the world. You can see and admire the marine wonders from acrylic glass panels and the Aqua Room here.
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The Coral Sea tank of Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium brings the most vibrant of oceanic experiences to life within an aquarium tank. The tank has been designed without a roof so it can be filled with natural light. As you visit this area of Okinawa Churaumi, you get to see corals cultivated in their natural habitat and admire the colourful beauty. If you have kids or are unable to go underwater for coral sightings, visiting Coral Sea is a must for you.
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Witness six stunning shark species swimming across a massive tank as you head to the Shark Research Lab of Okinawa Chiraumi. This aquarium section is dedicated to sharks and their behaviour, showcased through different exhibits and interactive displays. A highlight is the Great White Shark Fetus, which was part of a scientific research on great white sharks by the aquarium. Learn about different shark species through specimens during your tour here.
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One of the most intriguing sections of the Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium is the Deep Sea, where you can see marine life like never before. This section is home to marine species found only 200 metres to 700 metres below the ocean surface. These species, like flame snappers, luminescent shrimp, and black snoek, are incredibly rare and hard to raise in captivity. The exhibit also lets you learn in depth about deep sea environment and its inhabitants through interactive displays.
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Facts About Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium
- The Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium is part of the Ocean Expo Park and is among the biggest aquariums in the world.
- The attraction is unique as it is home to several whale sharks raised in captivity, a feat generally considered impossible.
- Okinawa Churaumi holds the world record for raising and breeding one of the world’s largest species of manta rays, the Mobula alfredi.
- Visitors can see corals being cultivated and grown in their natural state at the Coral Sea Tank of the aquarium.
- At the aquarium, you can spot marine creatures found 200 metres to 700 metres below sea level.
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Essential Information
Opening Hours:
- Daily: 8:30 AM to 6:30 PM (Last admission: 5:30 PM)
- July to September: 8:30 AM to 8:00 PM (Last admission: 7:00 PM)
Closed on the first Wednesday and Thursday of December.
Location:
424 Ishikawa, Motobu, Kunigami District, Okinawa 905-0206, Japan
Situated within the Ocean Expo Park on the Motobu Peninsula, northern Okinawa.
How to Reach:
- By Car: Approximately 2 hours from Naha Airport via Okinawa Expressway.
- By Bus: Take the Yanbaru Express Bus from Naha Bus Terminal or Naha Airport, which stops directly at the aquarium.
- By Public Transport: Accessible via bus routes from Nago City, followed by a transfer at Nakijin Village for a bus to the aquarium.
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FAQs
Why is Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium famous?
Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium is famous among visitors due to its sheer size and wide variety of marine creatures. The aquarium is among the best and biggest in the world and is home to numerous rare species including whale sharks and manta rays. You can also see corals and marine species found only in the deep sea here.
How much time do you need to explore Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium?
You can explore the Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium in one-and-a-half to two hours. This period gives you time to see the major highlights of the aquarium at a relaxed pace. If you wish, you can spend as many hours as you like here.
What is the best time to visit Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium?
The best time to visit Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium is in the early morning hours on weekdays. Visiting in mornings lets you explore at leisure as the crowds are less and you have ample time for a relaxed visit. Weekdays are preferable over weekends as holidays see higher crowds.
When Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium is open?
Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium is open on all days of the week.
- General Timings – 8:30 AM to 6:30 PM; last admission at 5:30 PM.
- From April to July – 8:30 AM to 8 PM; last admission at 7 PM.
- August – 8:30 AM to 9 PM; last admission at 8 PM.
- Closed on the first Wednesday and Thursday of December.
What is the best way to get around Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium?
The most popular way to get around the aquarium is on foot as the pathways are generally plain and comfortable. You can also hire a tour car at the Ocean Expo Park if you feel uncomfortable exploring the attraction on foot.
What can I see in the Kuroshio Sea tank?
You can see some of the ocean's largest inhabitants, including whale sharks and stunning manta rays, all in their natural habitat within the Kuroshio Sea tank at Okinawa Churaumi.
What is a highlight of the Shark Research Lab?
A highlight is the Great White Shark Fetus, which was part of a scientific research study on great white sharks conducted by the aquarium.