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Churaumi Aquarium, located in the northern part of Okinawa’s main island, is one of Okinawa’s most popular tourist attractions.
The vast marine life exhibition space and the powerful appearance of large creatures such as jellyfish and whale sharks attract many tourists every year.
It’s one of the largest aquariums in the world and a great place to encounter rare marine life!
Admission is relatively expensive at 2,180 yen for adults, but if you make good use of discount tickets, you can save money.
Therefore, in this article, we will explain how to obtain discount tickets for Churaumi Aquarium in an easy-to-understand manner for each of the various places to purchase tickets.
Online tickets are available at ↓.
5% discount coupon will be issued for the first-time registration of AssoView
Regular fee for Churaumi Aquarium
Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium, located in Motobu-cho, Okinawa, is a world-class aquarium known for its spectacular exhibits and diverse marine life.
Here, there are many attractions for adults and children of all ages.
| adult | 2,180 yen |
| Middle (high school students) | 1,440 yen |
| Child (elementary and junior high school students) | 710 yen |
| Under 6 years old | free |
| Annual Passport | Adult: 4,360 yen, Middle: 2,880 yen, Child: 1,420 yen |
For this fee, visitors can observe a wide variety of marine life, from large marine creatures such as whale sharks and manta rays to colorful tropical fish.
Notes
It is recommended to check the official website of Churaumi Aquarium for details of purchased tickets and the latest information on Churaumi Aquarium. Tickets are valid for approximately six months from issuance.
Online tickets are available for discount tickets at Churaumi Aquarium!
Compare online tickets from “Klook” and “Assoview” to find out the best way to purchase tickets!
Price comparison chart: Klook vs.
| – | Klook | assovew |
|---|---|---|
| Charge | Adults ¥2,180 High school students ¥1,440 Elementary and junior high school students ¥710 | Adults ¥2,180 High school students ¥1,440 Elementary and junior high school students ¥710 |
| Form of Purchase | Electronic tickets No need to exchange tickets at the counter | Web tickets No need to exchange tickets at the counter |
| cancel | not allowed | not allowed |
| expiry date | Valid for 30 days from the date of purchase | During business hours |
| Reservation Confirmation | Immediate Reservation | Immediate Reservation |
| Word of mouth | More than 4,000 cases | More than 7,000 cases |
| Admission | Voucher (presented on a smartphone) | QR code (presented on a smartphone) |
| Purchase Page |
|
|
What are the advantages of using both sites?
Why Choose Klook?
- A secure platform popular among overseas travelers!
This service is highly trusted as it is used by many non-Japanese as well. Although it is an overseas travel site, Japanese-language support is well established, so you can buy with peace of mind! - No hassle with instant reservations!
Vouchers are issued immediately after booking in the form of electronic tickets. No need to exchange the voucher at the ticket counter for smooth entry.
Why Choose AssoView?
- Many reviews from users in Japan!
This is a reliable domestic service with more than 7,000 reviews! Check out what actual buyers have to say about the service and use it with peace of mind. - The security of official tickets!
The price is the same as the official web ticket of Churaumi Aquarium, so you can trust us.
Click here for information on how to purchase tickets on AssoView.
Which one should we actually choose?
Both are priced the same, but the key to choosing the right one is ease of use! We recommend that you choose the one that best suits your situation as follows
- I prefer a platform that is accustomed to foreign language support and international travelers! → Klook
- I want to specialize in domestic travel and check reviews carefully! → AssoView
Smooth sightseeing with advance preparation!
Buying online saves you the trouble of purchasing tickets locally and makes sightseeing more pleasant! Advance purchase is essential, especially on busy days and during busy times. Both are major and reliable services, so choose the one that best suits your needs!
You will feel better if you purchase the night before.
Facilities in Okinawa where discount tickets can be purchased
Tickets for Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium can be purchased at discounted prices at several locations as well as at the aquarium counter.
This is the best option for purchasing while traveling!
Online tickets are available at ↓.
5% discount coupon will be issued for the first-time registration of AssoView
Women’s Station Nakaikui Market
If you are going to Churaumi Aquarium, a popular sightseeing spot in Okinawa, you may want to get discount tickets in advance. In such a case, we recommend ” Onna-no-Eki Nakaikui Market ” located in Onna Village. This is not a roadside station, but it is one of the best produce markets in Okinawa.
Discount tickets can be purchased here and are more affordable than anywhere else.
The regular price for adults is 2,180 yen to 1,850 yen, and children can also be purchased at a discounted price.
The discount rate is a whopping 15.14% off!
Discount Ticket Discount Details
- Adults (18 years and older): ¥1,850 (¥330 OFF) instead of ¥2,180 (regular price)
- High school student: ¥1,250 ( regular price ¥1,440) (¥190 OFF)
- Elementary/Junior high school students: Regular price ¥710 becomes ¥610 (¥100 OFF)
- 6 years old and under: free
Purchasing tickets at Onna no Eki is very economical.
If you purchase here, you will receive a discount off the regular price.
Purchases can be made at the cashier counter inside Onna-no-Eki.
Cash only.
Nakaikui Market is a popular produce market where fresh local produce and crafts are gathered.
The market is lined with many restaurants serving the famous Okinawa soba noodles and local cuisine made with plenty of juicy pineapple, as well as confectionery and general merchandise stores perfect for souvenirs. In addition to shopping, it is also a great place to enjoy a meal or café time.
Why buy at Women’s Station?
Open from 10:00 a.m., the best plan is to soak in the Okinawan local flavor at leisure, then purchase a discount ticket and head to the Churaumi Aquarium.
Payment is by cash only, but we recommend that you withdraw cash in advance, as you may run out of time once you arrive.
If you are sightseeing in the Chubu area (Chatan, Yomitan, Kadena) or Onna Village area, we recommend that you purchase your tickets here!
For more information about Onna no Eki, click here↓.
Roadside Station Kusuda Yanbaru Products Center
At Michi no Eki Kusuda Yanbaru Bussan Center, you can also purchase tickets to Churaumi Aquarium here at a discount from the regular price. It is a great location to stop by before visiting Churaumi Aquarium.
Discount Ticket Details
- Adults (18 years and older): ¥1,850 (¥330 OFF) instead of ¥2,180 (regular price)
- High school student: ¥1,250 ( regular price ¥1,440) (¥190 OFF)
- Elementary/Junior high school students: Regular price ¥710 becomes ¥610 (¥100 OFF)
- 6 years old and under: free
Prices are the same as those at Onna no Eki, but it opens at 8:30 in the morning.
Sold at Roadside Station, Kusuda Yanbaru Product Center (available only at the cash register in the special products section).
Sales hours are from 8:30 to 19:00 and cash only (gift certificates, money orders, and discount coupons are not accepted).
Why buy at Roadside Station Husoda?
- It is accessible from the Hushida IC of the expressway and is available from early morning.This makes it very convenient for those planning to enjoy Churaumi Aquarium first thing in the morning.
- Since the aquarium opens early in the morning, visitors can purchase discount tickets before the Churaumi Aquarium opens and enter the museum as soon as it opens.
Click here for more information about Roadside Station Xuden.
Online tickets can be purchased cashless anytime, anywhere!
Online tickets are available at ↓.
5% discount coupon will be issued for the first-time registration of AssoView
Roadside Station Kadena
Michi-no-Eki Kadena, located in Kadena Town, Okinawa Prefecture, is a facility that exudes a unique charm due to its unique location adjacent to the Kadena Air Force Base.
It is the only roadside station in Japan where you can watch fighter jets and other aircraft take off and land up close.
Discount Ticket Details
- Adults (18 years and older): ¥1,950 (¥230 OFF) instead of ¥2,180 (regular price)
- Elementary and junior high school students: Regular price ¥710 is reduced to ¥640 (¥70 OFF)
- 6 years old and under: free
Discount tickets for Churaumi Aquarium are available at this agricultural products direct sales shop.
Why buy at Roadside Station Kadena?
Although the discount rate is a little lower than other facilities, it is a good place to stop by for those staying in the Naha or Chatan area, and it is open from 9:00 a.m., making it very convenient.
Click here for more information about Roadside Station Kadena.
Online tickets make it easy to avoid standing in line!
Online tickets are available at ↓.
5% discount coupon will be issued for the first-time registration of AssoView
Umichura (Naha Antenna Shop)
Located on Kokusai-dori in Naha City, Umichura is an antenna store of Churaumi Aquarium, providing a healing space for all visitors. It is ideal for those who plan to visit Churaumi Aquarium, as well as for those who have already visited or just want to take a break.
Discount Ticket Details
- Adults: 1,950 yen instead of the usual 2,180 yen
- High school students: 1,300 yen instead of the usual 1,440 yen
- Elementary and junior high school students: 710 yen is 640 yen
Why buy at Umichura?
In addition to purchasing aquarium tickets, this antenna store offers a wide variety of leaflets and souvenirs about the Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium and other facilities in Ocean Expo Park. It is a great place to gather information before visiting the aquarium or to choose a souvenir of your trip.
How to choose a car rental without making mistakes! Thorough explanation!
Car Rental
Be careful with cheap rental cars…
A rental car is essential to fully enjoy sightseeing in Okinawa. However, there are several points to consider when choosing a rental car company.
AEON MALL Okinawa Lycoming
AEON MALL Okinawa Lycoming is a vast shopping mall located in Kitanakagusuku Village, Nakagami County, Okinawa Prefecture. At the information counter on the second floor of the mall, visitors can purchase advance tickets to the Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium at a discount.
Details on purchasing tickets at AEON MALL Okinawa Lycoming
- Adults: 1,950 yen instead of the usual 2,180 yen
- Elementary and junior high school students: 710 yen is 640 yen
Adult tickets are discounted from the regular price of 2,180 yen to 1,950 yen, while tickets for elementary and junior high school students are discounted from 710 yen to 640 yen.
Visitors can save 230 yen and 70 yen, respectively, and enjoy the aquarium at a more economical price.
Since the store is open from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., it is convenient to purchase even at night.
Lycoming Attractions and Services
Under the concept of ” Okinawa Resort Mall,” AEON MALL Okinawa Lycam is operated as a resort-style mall where visitors can experience Okinawa’s culture and nature.
- Distinctive Facilities:.
- Pokemon Center Okinawa
- Giant aquarium on the 1st floor and relaxing space on the 5th floor
With approximately 220 stores, visitors can not only shop but also enjoy the local food culture.
Naha Airport Tourist Information Center
Tickets for Churaumi Aquarium can also be purchased at the Naha Airport Tourist Information Center at Naha Airport.
Located on the first floor of the domestic arrival lobby, this information center sells discounted advance tickets, a convenient way to purchase tickets for those visiting Okinawa by plane.
- Adults: 1,950 yen instead of the usual 2,180 yen
- High school students: 1,310 yen instead of the usual 1,440 yen
- Elementary and junior high school students: 710 yen is 640 yen
Sales hours are from 9:00 to 18:00. Discount rates vary depending on the time of year, so it is recommended that you check the rates on site.
A recommended hotel in Onna Village, one of the best beach resorts in Okinawa, Japan!
In this issue, we will introduce you to travel sites that are easy to compare so that you can get the best deals on hotels for your special trip. Each site offers limited time discounts and special offers, and depending on the season, you may have the chance to stay at a top resort hotel for up to 20% off! We hope you will take advantage of them.
Churaumi Aquarium tickets, but we’ve introduced you to a variety of stores, after all.
Net may be cosier!
Buy Online
You can get a 5% off coupon with your first registration as a member of the online ticketing service “Asobuyu”, which allows you to enjoy the Churaumi Aquarium without having to wait in line for ticket sales.
Churaumi Aquarium WEB Ticket is here.
Please refer to the following for the registration procedure.
Access the AssoView site:.
This is how to register for AssoView.
Click on “Register Now (Free).
Membership Registration Procedure:.
Enter your email address and password.
Agree to the Terms of Use and click the “Agree and Create Account” button.
Once registration is complete, login information is confirmed via email.
Buy Tickets
Look for “Churaumi Aquarium” on the AssoView website.
Once you find the page, you can purchase tickets by clicking “Proceed to Purchase”!
Ticket price after discount
- Adults (18 years and older): ¥2,071 with 5% discount from the regular price of ¥2,180
- High school students: 5% discount from regular price of ￥1,440 to ￥1,368
- Elementary and junior high school students: 5% discount from regular price of ¥710 to ¥675
precautions
- Discount applies only to first-time registrations.
- Coupons are valid for regular ticket purchases only and may not be combined with certain events or other promotions.
- Please note the payment method and coupon expiration date.
Tickets also have expiration dates, so plan accordingly!
Online tickets are available at ↓.
5% discount coupon will be issued for the first-time registration of AssoView
Not sold at convenience stores in the prefecture.
Currently, convenience stores and JAF do not sell discount tickets for Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium.
Although each convenience store used to offer discounted tickets, now only regular-priced vouchers are available at Lawson and 7-Eleven.
Seven-Eleven sells tickets with an Aquarius voucher in limited quantities. Discount tickets are also not offered by JAF, which offers a wide variety of member benefits for tourist facilities.
Online tickets are available at ↓.
5% discount coupon will be issued for the first-time registration of AssoView
Highlights of Churaumi Aquarium!
Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium is a fascinating facility where visitors can experience the diverse ecosystem of the Okinawan sea.
1. giant aquarium “Kuroshio Sea
The Kuroshio Sea Tank is the centerpiece of the Churaumi Aquarium. With a water volume of 7,500 tons, the tank is 35 meters long, 27 meters wide, and 10 meters deep, allowing visitors to observe whale sharks, southern blue rays, and other giant marine creatures swimming at their leisure up close. The acrylic panels are also impressive in size, measuring 8.2 m high, 22.5 m wide, and 60 cm thick, and were once recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records as the world’s largest.
Whale Shark: The whale sharks swimming gracefully in the tank are a sight to behold. The Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium holds the record for the longest whale shark breeding, which shows the high level of breeding technology.
Nanjo Manta Ray: This is a type of giant ray that can also be observed in the large tank, and boasts the world’s first successful breeding case.
2. “Coral Sea” tank
In the “Coral Sea” tank, more than 470 groups of corals are on display, growing in a near-natural environment with sunlight. Visitors are captivated by the sight of the beautiful coral reefs of Okinawa, which appear to have been recreated exactly as they are.
Coral species: About 80 species of corals are cultivated here, and their diversity and beautiful colors are worth seeing.
Symbiotic organisms: Small fish that live with coral and various other creatures that inhabit the coral reef can also be observed.
3. “Deep Sea” tank
The “Deep Sea” tank exhibits creatures that live in the deep sea of Okinawa. In this tank, which reproduces the environment at depths of 200 to 700 meters, visitors can observe mysterious creatures unique to the deep sea.
Deep-sea fish: Rare deep-sea creatures such as yellowtail snapper, longnose barracuda, and luminous shrimps are on display.
Deep-sea environment: There are also explanatory panels on the environment and ecology of the deep sea to deepen your knowledge.
4. “The Creatures of Ino”
In the “Ino Creatures” exhibit, visitors can learn about the creatures that live in the “ino,” which means shallow coral reefs in the Okinawan dialect. Visitors can learn by touching starfish, sea cucumbers, and other creatures in a touch pool format.
Touch Pool: This area is popular among children because they can actually touch living creatures.
Shallow-water creatures: starfish, sea cucumbers, nudibranchs, and other shallow-water creatures can be observed up close.
5. shark doctor’s room
In the “Shark Doctor’s Room,” visitors can learn more about the ecology and species of sharks. A wide range of information is on display, from dangerous sharks to lesser-known sharks.
Dangerous shark exhibit: Visitors can observe sharks that are considered dangerous, such as bull sharks and tiger sharks.
Explanatory panels: You can read detailed explanations about sharks and their role in the ecosystem.
6. oki-chan theater
At the “Oki-chan Theater,” dolphin shows are put on. Visitors can enjoy performances by a variety of dolphins, including bottlenose dolphins, southern bottlenose dolphins, and okigondas.
Dolphin Show: Both adults and children can enjoy the dynamic jumps and cute tricks of the dolphins.
Fuji with an artificial tail fin: The story of Fuji, a dolphin with an artificial tail fin that was once the talk of the town, is also introduced.
Online tickets are available at ↓.
5% discount coupon will be issued for the first-time registration of AssoView members.
7. manatee pavilion and sea turtle pavilion
The Manatee Pavilion and the Sea Turtle Pavilion exhibit manatees and sea turtles, respectively. Visitors can learn about these creatures that inhabit the seas of Okinawa.
Manatee Pavilion: Manatees donated from Mexico are kept here. Visitors can observe their leisurely movements.
Sea Turtle Pavilion: Turtles of various species such as the hawksbill turtle, green turtle, loggerhead turtle, etc.
Churaumi Aquarium Access Information
By car: Approx. 2 hours from Naha Airport via Okinawa Expressway
Highway Bus: Approximately 2 to 2 hours and 30 minutes from Naha Airport (Yanbaru Express Bus, Okinawa Airport Shuttle, etc.)
Parking: Available (free of charge)
A great way to reserve a rental car that locals also use!
Tips for enjoying Churaumi Aquarium 120%.
When visiting the Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium, visitors can do more than simply admire the exhibits.
Here are some tips for enjoying Churaumi Aquarium 120%.
1. planned visits
Churaumi Aquarium is a vast facility.
Check the hours of operation and event schedule to plan the day and time of your visit.
Avoid especially crowded weekends and holidays, so that you can enjoy the museum at a leisurely pace.
2. visit early in the day
By visiting first thing in the morning, you can avoid the crowds and take your time to see the most popular exhibits.
Since the museum is relatively empty immediately after opening, visitors can comfortably tour popular areas such as the “Kuroshio Sea” where whale sharks and Nanyo Manta Rays swim.
3. use an audio guide
Audio guides can be rented at Churaumi Aquarium.
An audio guide allows visitors to listen to detailed explanations of the exhibits for a better understanding and enjoyment.
4. participate in special programs and events
Various events are held regularly at Churaumi Aquarium, including feeding shows, special interpretation programs, and backyard tours.
By participating in these programs, you can experience behind-the-scenes and special moments that you would not normally see. Check the schedule on the official website in advance to make sure you don’t miss anything.
5. enjoy “Kuroshio Exploration (Water Viewing Course)
The “Kuroshio Exploration” tour, which allows visitors to view the “Kuroshio Sea” tank from the top, is a popular course that allows them to enjoy the tank from a different perspective than the usual tour.
It is often held in the early morning or evening hours, and we encourage you to attend.
6. use the re-entry system
Re-entry to Churaumi Aquarium is possible only on the same day.
Visitors can visit the museum once in the morning, enjoy lunch and the surrounding facilities, and then return to the museum in the afternoon to continue their visit. This allows visitors to enjoy the entire day without wasting time.
7. relax at the in-house café
At the cafe “Ocean Blue” adjacent to the “Kuroshio Sea” tank, visitors can spend a relaxing time while gazing at the large aquarium.
Relax with a cup of coffee and watch whale sharks and manta rays swimming leisurely by.
8. enjoy the surrounding facilities
Around Churaumi Aquarium, there are many free facilities such as “Oki-chan Theater” where you can enjoy dolphin shows, “Manatee Pavilion” and “Sea Turtle Pavilion”.
Families, especially those with children, can spend a fulfilling day by visiting these facilities as well.
9. visit souvenir stores
Churaumi Aquarium has a souvenir store with limited edition products and local specialties.
Purchase figures and original goods available only here to keep your travel memories in shape.
10. use of annual passport
Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium has an annual passport.
The two admission fees allow you to visit the aquarium as many times as you like during the year, making it a great deal for frequent visitors to Okinawa and aquarium lovers.
Also, there are special offers available only to Passport members, making it highly worthwhile to use this service.
11. Let’s check the congestion situation in advance.
When visiting the Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium, it tends to be crowded, especially on weekends and holidays. To avoid crowds, it is wise to avoid the peak hours of 10:00 to 16:00 and visit on weekdays or first thing in the morning just after the aquarium opens.
In addition, the museum is open from 8:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. during the regular season, but during peak season the hours are extended from 8:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Also, checking parking lot congestion in advance will help ensure a smooth visit to the park. Please check the following link for the latest parking information.
Ocean Expo Park Parking Lot Congestion
Even on days when crowds are expected, knowing the information in advance will ensure a safe and enjoyable time.
Online tickets are available at ↓.
5% discount coupon will be issued for the first-time registration of AssoView members.
Churaumi Aquarium Programs
The Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium offers a variety of special programs that give visitors the opportunity to learn more about marine life and the Okinawan sea in a deeper and more enjoyable way.
1. Kuroshio Exploration (Water Viewing Course)
Kuroshio Exploration (Water Viewing Course) is a popular program that allows visitors to observe the Churaumi Aquarium’s “Kuroshio Sea” large water tank from the surface of the water. This program allows visitors to observe the inside of the tank from a perspective not normally available.
Viewing hours: 8:30-11:00 (admission deadline 10:45) and 17:30 to closing (admission deadline 15 minutes before closing). May be extended during the summer months.
Highlights:
View from the water: Giant whale sharks and southern blue manta rays can be seen swimming from the surface of the water, giving visitors an even greater sense of their size and power.
Animal health work: The museum is closed to visitors from 11:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. due to animal health work.
Notes:
Reservations are not required, but early attendance is recommended due to limited viewing time.
Viewing times are subject to change depending on the animals’ physical condition.
2. wakuwaku aqua lab
Waku Waku Aqualabo is a hands-on program that allows visitors to learn about marine life while having fun. Especially popular with children, the program combines learning and fun.
Program Description:
Interacting with living creatures: Through touch pools and experimental exhibits, visitors can learn through direct contact with marine life.
Explanatory panels and videos: Easy-to-understand explanatory panels and videos on the ecology of living creatures and the characteristics of Okinawa’s ocean are on display.
How to participate: There are programs that take place at specific times, and you can participate by visiting at those times.
How to enjoy:
Experiences for children: There are a wide variety of exhibits and experiences designed to interest children.
Parent-child learning: Parents and children can participate together to learn about marine life together and make great family memories.
3. backyard tour
The Backyard Tour is a special guided exploration of the Aquarium’s behind-the-scenes areas not normally seen by visitors, led by the keepers of the Aquarium. During this tour, visitors can go behind the scenes of the aquarium and learn about the breeding grounds and how the aquarium manages its creatures.
Date and time of implementation:
Everyday: ①10:00 ②11:00 ③12:00 ④13:00
The content of the tour may change depending on the work and facility conditions.
Location:
Reception location: Dedicated reception counter inside the Aquarium’s 3F entrance. Registration for all sessions will begin after the opening of the aquarium (first-come, first-served).
Meeting place: In front of the “Coral Sea” tank. After registration, gather 10 minutes before the program starts.
Fee: 5,000 yen/group (max. 5 people). Separate entrance fee is required.
Capacity: Only one group per session. Elementary school students and younger must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Conditions of participation:
Must be able to walk 60 minutes. No wheelchairs, strollers, or baby carriers allowed.
Large luggage is not allowed.
Must be able to understand explanations in Japanese.
Highlights:
Tour of the breeding area: observe up close the daily work of the keepers and ask questions.
Animal Care and Management: Hear expert commentary on husbandry and health care initiatives.
Privileges: Privileges are available to participants (details to be confirmed on the day of the event).
Online tickets are available at ↓.
5% discount coupon will be issued for the first-time registration of AssoView members.
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. advance reservation
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.
2. clothing and personal belongings
Proper attire and preparation of personal belongings are important for a comfortable visit inside Churaumi Aquarium. Especially for backyard tours, comfortable clothing is required.
Clothing:
Comfortable shoes for walking: The museum is large and the areas to be visited are diverse. Wear shoes that are easy to walk in to avoid fatigue.
Comfortable clothing: Comfortable clothing is recommended, especially for backyard tours, as visitors may pass through stairs and narrow passageways.
Belongings:
Cameras and smart phones: Bring your camera or smart phone for beautiful exhibits and photo opportunities.
Beverages: It is convenient to bring beverages to stay hydrated (however, eating and drinking may be prohibited in some areas).
3. use of re-entry
Re-entry is available at Churaumi Aquarium. This can be used to enjoy the surrounding facilities and other attractions.
- Re-entry: If you wish to re-enter the museum, you may do so only on the same day by presenting your admission ticket at the entrance/exit. Do not forget to bring your admission ticket when re-entering the museum.
- Cooperation with surrounding facilities:
- Oki-chan Theater: The Oki-chan Theater, where dolphin shows are free of charge, is located near the aquarium. Taking advantage of re-entry, visitors are encouraged to go back and forth between the aquarium and the theater.
- Manatee Pavilion and Sea Turtle Pavilion: These facilities are also located around the aquarium and are free to visit. Take advantage of your re-entry to enjoy these facilities together.
A great way to reserve a rental car that locals also use!
History and Background of Churaumi Aquarium
Okinawa International Ocean Expo and the First Aquarium
The history of Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium dates back to the Okinawa International Ocean Expo held in 1975.
The National Okinawa Ocean Expo Park Aquarium, built on the site of this expo, opened in 1979 and welcomed many visitors over the years. This first aquarium played an important role in conveying the charms of the Okinawan sea, but as the facility aged, the need for renovation grew.
Revitalization into a new aquarium
In 2002, the Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium reopened as a new aquarium with the latest facilities and design.
This re-opening commemorates the 30th anniversary of Okinawa’s reversion to mainland Japan and is a major tourism resource for Okinawa. The new aquarium is more than just a tourist facility; it has also been enhanced to function as a research institute and has produced a variety of research results, including long-term breeding and propagation of marine life.
Design concept: “Encounter with the Okinawan Sea”.
The design concept of the Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium is “Encountering the Okinawan Sea.
The museum is designed to recreate the marine ecosystem of Okinawa, from shallow to deep waters, so that visitors can experience what it is like to explore the actual ocean.
Based on this concept, the exhibition contents and facility design are considered.
Facility Features
Incorporation of Natural Light: Many of the museum’s exhibit areas are naturally lit. The “Coral Sea” tank, in particular, has been designed without a roof to allow sunlight to directly enter the tank, allowing coral and fish to live in a more natural environment.
Large Tank “Kuroshio Sea”: The highlight of the Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium, this large tank allows visitors to observe 8.6 meter-long whale sharks and southern blue rays swimming at their leisure. The design of this tank provides ample space and depth for migratory fish to swim freely.
Deep-sea life exhibit: The deep-sea ecosystem is also reproduced, allowing visitors to observe rare creatures that inhabit the environment at depths of 200 to 700 meters. This allows visitors to feel close to the mysterious world of the deep sea.
Comparison of Aquariums of the World and Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium
Compare Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium with other famous aquariums.
| – | Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium | Georgia Aquarium | Singapore Aquarium | Dubai Aquarium |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| building area | Approx. 10,000 m² | Approximately 60,000 m² | Approx. 8,000 m² | Approx. 12,000 m² |
| total floor space | Approximately 19,000 m² | – | – | – |
| largest water tank | Water volume 7,500m³ (Kuroshio Sea) | Water volume 24,000 m³ (Oceana Voyage) | Water volume 18,000 m³ (open ocean tanks) | Water volume 10,000 m³. |
| Main Exhibits | Whale Shark, Southern Blue Manta Rays | Whale sharks, beluga, manta rays, dolphins | Mantas, dolphins, sharks, and diverse marine life from the Indian Ocean to the Pacific Ocean | Sharks, rays, tropical fish, desert ecosystems |
| Notable Features | Successful long-term breeding of whale sharks and the world’s first successful breeding of the southern blue manta ray | World’s largest aquarium, diverse exhibits of marine mammals, extensive shows and educational programs | Asia’s largest aquarium, large panoramic tank, diverse marine life exhibits divided by region | World’s largest acrylic panel, located in a large shopping mall, architectural design as part of a high-rise building |
Scale:
The Georgia Aquarium is the largest, followed by the Singapore Aquarium, Dubai Aquarium, and Churaumi Aquarium.
Main Exhibit:
Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium is known for its long-term breeding and propagation of whale sharks and southern blue manta rays.
The Georgia Aquarium features a diverse array of marine mammals, especially belugas and dolphins.
The Singapore Aquarium exhibits diverse marine life from the Indian Ocean to the Pacific Ocean.
The Dubai Aquarium is known for the world’s largest acrylic panels, which display a diverse array of marine life.
Notable features:
The Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium recreates the marine ecosystem of Okinawa and offers a wide variety of educational exhibits.
The Georgia Aquarium entertains visitors with extensive shows and educational programs.
The Singapore Aquarium is divided into regional exhibits that allow visitors to learn about different marine ecosystems.
The Dubai Aquarium is located in a shopping mall, allowing visitors to combine their visit with sightseeing and shopping.
Online tickets are available at ↓.
5% discount coupon will be issued for the first-time registration of AssoView members.
summary
Located in the northern part of Okinawa’s main island, Churaumi Aquarium is known for its spectacular marine life exhibits, attracting tourists with whale sharks, jellyfish, and other large creatures.
The regular admission fee is 2,180 yen for adults, but discounted tickets are available to keep costs down.
By taking advantage of this, you can enjoy Churaumi Aquarium at a more economical price.
Online tickets are available at ↓.
5% discount coupon will be issued for the first-time registration of AssoView members.
If you want to enjoy Okinawa, get discount tickets online!
special feature article
Roadside Stations and Direct Selling Stations Special Feature!
Michi no Eki (Roadside Stations) and direct sales shops in Okinawa are very popular tourist attractions. Each has its own unique characteristics, making them 200% worth visiting! Please visit them!
Special feature on beaches on the main island of Okinawa!
The main island of Okinawa has many wonderful beaches that can only be found in the tropics. We will introduce each of them in an easy-to-understand manner, from the very secluded to the well-serviced executive beaches.
Typhoon Okinawa
We have compiled a list of points to keep in mind when a typhoon approaches so that you can respond without panic before or during your trip. We hope you will find it useful.
One of the best spots for lunch in Okinawa!
