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After the war, Japan experienced unprecedented economic growth, and in the mainland, which entered a period of rapid economic growth, urbanization and industrial development progressed, and with it came the need to promote cultural transmission and tourism both domestically and internationally.
On the other hand, Okinawa, which had experienced World War II, was in a unique social situation throughout the period before and after its reversion to mainland Japan. This was a time when establishing a new identity and redeveloping its economic base were important issues after its return to Japan from under U.S. rule.
The reversion of Okinawa to mainland Japan in 1972 was a major turning point for Okinawa to make a fresh start within the framework of “Japan.
The Okinawa International Maritime Expo, held three years later, was planned to celebrate the reversion of Okinawa to Japan and to provide an opportunity to showcase Okinawa’s rich natural resources, especially its maritime culture, to the world. Against the backdrop of Okinawa’s rapid economic growth, this was a strategic event to attract tourists from Japan and abroad and to serve as a driving force for regional development.
The Ocean Expo was an ideal stage for Okinawa to reaffirm the value of the “sea” that makes Okinawa what it is, and to express itself as a center for international cultural exchange.
The history of the Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium, which was later succeeded by the first aquarium built on the site of the exposition and reopened in 2002, symbolizes the path taken by Okinawa during its postwar reconstruction and economic development period, and after its return to the mainland.
Behind the Churaumi Aquarium runs the story of how Okinawa has shown the world its nature, culture, and future through the postwar restructuring period.
Beginning with the Okinawa International Ocean Expo
Expo brings maritime culture dissemination
The roots of the Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium can be traced back to the Okinawa International Ocean Expo held in 1975.
The expo was planned as a place to showcase Okinawa to the world and introduce its marine resources and culture after the reversion of Okinawa to mainland Japan.
At the time, there were only a limited number of facilities that could directly inform the public about marine life and the mysteries of the underwater world, which is why the Ocean Expo, with its diverse exhibits, attracted so much attention.
Birth of the first aquarium “National Okinawa Ocean Expo Park Aquarium
After the Ocean Expo, the site was developed into the “National Okinawa Ocean Expo Commemorative Park (Ocean Expo Park),” and the first aquarium, the “National Okinawa Ocean Expo Commemorative Park Aquarium,” opened in 1979.
Here, a wide variety of creatures from the seas around Okinawa are exhibited, and it has become a popular spot visited by many tourists from inside and outside of the prefecture.
However, over the years, the facilities have become decrepit and in need of further development.
What was required was the creation of a new aquarium with more advanced technology and sophisticated design that would convey the allure of the sea even more deeply.
2002 Rebirth: “Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium” opens
Major renewal to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the return
In 2002, to commemorate the 30th anniversary of Okinawa’s return to mainland Japan, the original aquarium will undergo a major renovation and reopen under the new name “Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium.
Incorporating the latest equipment and design concepts, the new aquarium has once again come into the limelight as a tourist attraction in Okinawa.
From Tourist Attraction to Research Institution
The new aquarium will be more than just a tourist facility showcasing marine life.
The Institute’s presence as a research institution grew as it produced a series of research results that attracted worldwide attention, including the long-term breeding of whale sharks and corals, and the breeding of manta rays.
Therefore, a visit here also gives us access to cutting-edge marine research.
Design concept: “Encounter with the Okinawan Sea”.
Experience the ocean of Okinawa from shallow to deep waters
The concept of the Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium is “Encounter with the Okinawan Sea.
The museum’s underwater environment is reproduced in stages, gradually deepening from Okinawa’s coastal areas.
As visitors progress through the exhibit area, the depths change from shallow water to coral reef areas and then to deep water, making the experience feel as if they are actually diving into the Okinawan sea.
Coral Sea” overflowing with natural light
Inside the aquarium, there are many ingenious ways to boldly bring in natural light.
In particular, the “Coral Sea” area has been designed without a roof, allowing sunlight to shine directly into the aquarium. The coral and colorful tropical fish are bathed in natural light, making them appear even more vibrant.
Facility Highlights
Kuroshio Sea: The most impressive large aquarium
The “Kuroshio Sea,” a large tank that is the centerpiece of the Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium, features whale sharks up to 8.6 meters in length and southern blue rays swimming at their leisure.
An aquarium displaying large migratory fish on such a large scale is rare in the world, and its power and beauty are a must-see.
Deep Sea Life Exhibit: Up Close and Personal with the Mysterious World
Visitors can observe rarely seen deep-sea creatures in a corner that recreates a deep-sea environment at depths of 200 to 700 meters.
Creatures living in the deep sea have unique body shapes and ecology, giving visitors a glimpse of the “unknown world.
Sightseeing spots you should not miss on your trip to Okinawa
Family friendly
The wide range of exhibits, from coral reef areas and giant tanks to deep-sea exhibits, are enjoyable for adults and children alike.
Parents and children can enjoy learning and having fun together by taking their time to explore the world of the sea as if they were flipping through a moving picture book.
Combine with Ocean Expo Park for a full day of fun
Within Ocean Expo Park, where the Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium is located, there are many free facilities to enjoy, such as dolphin shows and a sea turtle and manatee pavilion.
A day spent touring the entire park, centering on the aquarium, will allow visitors to enjoy the rich variety of the marine world, and is a perfect way to create fulfilling memories.
summary
The Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium was born on the site of the former Okinawa International Ocean Expo and has evolved over the years.
If you know its historical background, you will find it more than just a place to “look at the beautiful sea. Advanced exhibits backed by research results, a coral tank that skillfully uses natural light, and powerful whale sharks and other deep-sea creatures will keep visitors entertained.
When planning your trip to Okinawa, be sure to include this aquarium in your schedule. The Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium is your gateway to the Okinawan sea, inviting you to a new marine experience.
summary
The Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium is the predecessor of the first aquarium, which was established after the Okinawa International Ocean Expo in 1975, and was reborn as a new tourist and research center after a major renovation in 2002.
Under the concept of “Encounters with the Okinawan Sea,” the museum reproduces diverse ecosystems from shallow to deep waters, and continues to convey the appeal of marine ecosystems and the importance of their conservation through abundant exhibits of whale sharks and corals.
Popular with families, it is a must-see spot where visitors can enjoy the whole day together with Ocean Expo Park and experience the nature and culture of Okinawa.
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!
