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Churaumi Aquarium is a popular sightseeing spot in Okinawa.
To maximize your enjoyment of that visit, here is a comprehensive list of points that are useful to know in advance.
The following information will help you to have a pleasant and fulfilling time.
What to know before visiting Churaumi Aquarium
We have compiled a list of useful information that you should know in advance when visiting the Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium. By keeping these points in mind, you can enjoy a smoother and more comfortable visit.
1. hours of operation and access information
Business Hours
Churaumi Aquarium usually opens at 8:30 a.m., but the closing time varies depending on the season and events. Check the official website for the latest schedule before visiting. During peak season, the hours may be extended until 20:00.
Access
It takes about 2 hours from Naha Airport to Churaumi Aquarium by car. It is most convenient to use a rental car. Enter “553075797” or phone number “0980-48-2741” in your car navigation system.
Here’s a good place to start so you don’t make the mistake of renting a car.
parking lot
The closest parking lot to the museum is the multi-story parking garage (P7) at the North Gate. Arrive early to avoid congestion.
2. points of ticket purchase
Charge
- Adult: 1,850 yen
- High school students: 1,250 yen
- Elementary and junior high school students: 610 yen
An annual passport can be purchased for the price of two. This is a great deal for frequent visitors.
Online Ticket Usage
To avoid waiting in line during busy times, we especially recommend purchasing tickets in advance online. Purchasing tickets through the official website of Churaumi Aquarium or affiliated travel websites will allow you to smoothly enter the aquarium without standing in line on the day of your visit.
Advantages of Buying Online
- Reduces stress during congestion
- Save time waiting in line to purchase tickets
- Discount campaigns may apply, economical
You can purchase in advance at convenience stores, but online you can easily complete the process from the comfort of your own home.
For more information about discounts at Churaumi Aquarium, click here.
3. visiting time to avoid congestion
Difference between weekdays and holidays
On weekdays, there are fewer tourists, so visitors can enjoy the exhibits at their leisure. On the other hand, weekends and holidays are very crowded with tourists. The crowds are especially at their peak during Golden Week and the summer vacation period (July-August).
Recommended time zone
- Immediately after the museum opens (8:30-10:00) During this time, the museum is empty and visitors can view the exhibits at their leisure. This is especially suitable for those who wish to see the feeding commentary in the Kuroshio Sea.
- Visitors tend to be fewer after 4:00 p.m. until closing time, allowing visitors to enjoy the exhibition in a more relaxed atmosphere.
Preliminary Preparation Points
Check the congestion forecast calendar on the official website to choose the best time for your visit. Also, check the weather forecast for the day of your visit and plan time to enjoy the outdoor facilities.
4. highlights and must-see points
Kuroshio Sea
The giant aquarium tank with whale sharks and southern blue manta rays is a symbol of Churaumi Aquarium. The whale shark feeding commentary is especially popular with visitors because of its power and interesting commentary. Feeding times are 9:30, 15:00, and 17:00 (subject to change), so check the schedule.
Coral Sea
This area is flooded with natural light, displaying approximately 740 species of coral. With sunlight streaming in, visitors can enjoy the fantastic sight created by the coral and tropical fish in the aquarium. This is an especially good spot to visit on a sunny day.
touch pool
As a hands-on exhibit, visitors can touch starfish and sea cucumbers. Popular with families with young children, this is a good opportunity for children to become familiar with marine life.
Click here for tips on how to enjoy Churaumi Aquarium 120%.
5. clothing and personal belongings
Recommended Clothing
The Churaumi Aquarium is a large facility, so choose clothes and shoes that allow you to walk around comfortably. It is also important to choose clothing that is appropriate for the season. Remember to protect yourself from the sun in the summer, and bring a light jacket in the winter.
Checklist of personal belongings
- Cameras and Smartphones: There are many photo spots in the museum to capture your memories.
- Beverages: Bring your own beverages for hydration. However, eating and drinking outside of designated areas is prohibited.
- Small bag: Pack the bare essentials in a small bag so that you can travel light.
- Sunscreen and hat: Necessary to enjoy the outdoor facilities.
6. use the re-entry system
Re-entry Advantages
Churaumi Aquarium allows re-entry only on the same day. Visitors can enjoy the surrounding facilities once outside the aquarium, and then visit again later for more efficient sightseeing.
Re-entry Procedures
When you leave the museum, simply present your admission ticket and receive a stamp. This will allow you to re-enter the museum, making it easier to make a sightseeing plan that combines the museum with the surrounding area.
Cooperation with Surrounding Facilities
- Oki-chan Theater: Free facility to enjoy dolphin shows. Check the time and visit.
- Manatee Pavilion and Sea Turtle Pavilion: Visits are available at no additional charge. Visitors can observe manatees and sea turtles up close.
7. advance reservations for programs
The Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium offers a number of popular programs and tours. Some of these programs require advance reservations and may not be available on the day of the tour. Please check the official website for details and make the necessary reservations in advance.
- Reservations required for this program:
- Backyard Tour: A popular guided tour of the aquarium with a keeper to explore the behind-the-scenes of the aquarium.
- Specific workshops and events: Seasonal events and special workshops may also require advance reservations.
- How to make a reservation: Check the reservation page on the official website and fill in the required information to complete your reservation.
Click here for detailed program of Churaumi Aquarium
8. child-friendly services
well-equipped
- Free strollers are available for families with babies.
- Nursing rooms and diaper changing stations are located throughout the museum.
Fun for Kids
In addition to the fun inside the museum, children can play to their heart’s content in the surrounding playground areas, such as the “Chibikko Toride”. Please find a playground appropriate for your child’s age.
9. dining and souvenir information
Food and Beverage Facilities
Restaurants and cafes using Okinawan ingredients are located inside Churaumi Aquarium. Be sure to try the whale shark-shaped sweets, Okinawan soba noodles, and other menu items that can only be found here.
Lunch time recommendations
Ideally, lunch should be taken around 11:00-11:30 to avoid crowds. It can be difficult to get a seat during peak hours.
Recommended Souvenirs
A number of exclusive Churaumi Aquarium goods are available at the museum store. Purchase a stuffed whale shark, a mug, or Okinawan specialties to make your trip memorable.
10. nearby attractions
A row of fukugi trees in Bise
A tree-lined avenue rich in nature is about 10 minutes away by car. The quiet space created by the Fukugi trees planted as a windbreak is ideal for photography.
Click here to learn more about the charm of Bise’s Fukugi Namiki trees.
Emerald Beach
About 10 minutes on foot. The white sand beach and crystal clear ocean are perfect for strolling and swimming.
Read more about Emerald Beach here.
Tropical Dream Center
Visitors can enjoy orchids and tropical fruits in the museum’s botanical garden. The beauty of the greenhouse displays is reminiscent of a tropical paradise.
For more information on Ocean Expo Park, including the Tropical Dream Center, click here.
11. traffic jam information
Traffic jam from Nago
The evening hours of 17:00-19:00 are very busy on Route 58 from Nago City. For this reason, it is recommended to start traveling before 17:00 when heading toward Naha.
Congestion between Chatan and Naha
Traffic volume also increases during this time from Chatan Town to Naha City, causing traffic jams. Please plan your schedule well in advance.
Use of highways
Using the Okinawa Expressway will reduce the time required. However, since traffic jams at toll booths may occur, utilizing an ETC card may allow you to pass through smoothly.
Tips for avoiding congestion
- During the tourist season, try to travel early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
- Check traffic conditions in real time
- Stay in the area and travel at times that avoid traffic congestion
Online tickets are available at ↓.
5% discount coupon will be issued for the first-time registration of AssoView members.
summary
We have provided a comprehensive list of information useful for visiting Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium.
We will give you tips on how to spend a pleasant and fulfilling time in the area, including operating hours, accessibility, tips for purchasing tickets, tips for avoiding crowds, highlights, advice on what to wear and bring, as well as information on nearby sightseeing spots, dining, and souvenirs.
You will definitely enjoy it more, especially if you prepare in advance and plan your visit.
If you want to enjoy Okinawa, get discount tickets online!
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One of the best spots for lunch in Okinawa!
