Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium: Whale Sharks in a Giant Tank
How to visit Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium: the Kuroshio Sea tank, whale sharks and manta rays, tips to avoid crowds and getting there.
Quick answer
- What it is: a large public aquarium in Ocean Expo Park on Okinawa's Motobu Peninsula.
- Famous for: the Kuroshio Sea tank, home to whale sharks and manta rays.
- Entry: around 2,000 yen for adults, so check the official site for current prices.
- Time needed: 2 to 3 hours, plus time in Ocean Expo Park.
- Best time: weekday mornings, or late afternoon when tickets are cheaper.
Standing in front of the Kuroshio Sea tank feels like looking into the open ocean. Whale sharks, the biggest fish in the world, glide slowly past, while manta rays swoop overhead.
Why Churaumi is a wonder
The Kuroshio Sea tank holds about 7,500 cubic metres of water behind one of the largest acrylic panels in the world. It is named after the warm Kuroshio current that flows past Okinawa.
Churaumi was one of the first aquariums to keep whale sharks and manta rays long term, and it has studied manta births in captivity.
Coral reefs and the deep sea
The tour starts with shallow coral reef pools, using living coral grown with natural sunlight and fresh seawater.
Further down, displays show strange creatures from the deep sea around Okinawa. Outside, free dolphin shows and a sea turtle pool are part of Ocean Expo Park.
Highlights
| Area | What you see | Time (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Coral reef zone | Living coral and colourful reef fish | 30 minutes |
| Kuroshio Sea tank | Whale sharks, manta rays and schools of fish | 45 minutes |
| Deep sea zone | Rare creatures from the deep | 30 minutes |
| Okichan Theater | Free dolphin shows in Ocean Expo Park | 30 minutes |
| Emerald Beach | A beach in the park next to the aquarium | 45 minutes |
When to go
- Feeding time: watch the whale sharks feed at the big tank at set times each day.
- Late afternoon: cheaper tickets for entry later in the day.
- Weekdays: fewer tour groups.
- Rainy days: a good indoor plan, though popular for the same reason.
Our tip: Check the feeding times when you arrive. Watching a whale shark feed upright, sucking in water and food, is unforgettable.
Getting there
- From Naha: expressway buses take about 2 to 3 hours to Ocean Expo Park.
- By car: about 1.5 to 2 hours from Naha via the expressway.
- Nearby: the Kouri Island bridge and Nakijin Castle ruins are good stops on the way.
Visiting tips
- Do not use flash photography near the tanks.
- Do not tap on the glass.
- Strollers are allowed, but the aquarium gets crowded at peak times.
- Check opening hours, which are longer in summer.
Frequently asked questions
Are there whale sharks at Churaumi Aquarium?
Yes. Whale sharks live in the Kuroshio Sea tank.
How long do you need at Churaumi Aquarium?
About 2 to 3 hours, plus time for the free dolphin show.
How do you get to Churaumi Aquarium from Naha?
By expressway bus in about 2 to 3 hours, or by car in about 1.5 to 2 hours.
Is the dolphin show free?
Yes. It is part of Ocean Expo Park and does not need an aquarium ticket.
Hakone Shrine
A red torii gate rising from the waters of a mountain lake.
We check this guide regularly. Prices, hours and rules in Japan can change, so confirm with the official sources below before you travel. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.